Market Overview
Arlington is pricier ($750K median vs $500K), a difference of about $250K. Arlington moves faster, with homes averaging 10 days on market compared to 28 in Warrenton. Warrenton offers a lower entry point at $225K–$2M.
Arlington
VA
Warrenton
VA
Median Price
$750K
$500K
Avg Days on Market
10 days
28 days
Price Range
$350K–$2.5M
$225K–$2M
Top Neighborhoods
Ballston, Clarendon, Crystal City, Pentagon City
Old Town Warrenton, Blackwell, Vint Hill, Rittenour
Schools
Arlington leads on school quality with a 89% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 78% in Warrenton. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Warrenton, families look to Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. See Arlington schools | See Warrenton schools
Arlington
VA
Warrenton
VA
Quality Tier
Excellent
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
89%
78%
Top Schools
Yorktown High School, Washington-Liberty High School, Williamsburg Middle School
Fauquier High School, Taylor Middle School, Brumfield Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Arlington is closer to downtown at ~15 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Arlington has 6 Metro stations, including Rosslyn on the Orange/Silver/Blue/Yellow lines. Major highway access: Arlington (I-66, I-395, Rt 50), Warrenton (Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211).
Arlington
VA
Warrenton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~15 min
~60 min
Metro Stations
6 Metro stations (nearest: Rosslyn)
No Metro access
Metro Lines
Orange, Silver, Blue, Yellow
N/A
Major Highways
I-66, I-395, Rt 50
Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211, Rt 15/29
Commuter Rail
None
None
Walkability
Arlington is more walkable with a Walk Score of 69 (Somewhat Walkable), compared to 32 in Warrenton. Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Ballston and Old Town Warrenton score much higher than suburban areas.
Arlington
VA
Warrenton
VA
Walk Score
Bike Score
72
28
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arlington or Warrenton more affordable?
Warrenton is more affordable with a median home price of $500K, compared to $750K in Arlington. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Arlington prices range from $350K–$2.5M. Warrenton prices range from $225K–$2M.
Which has better schools, Arlington or Warrenton?
Arlington has stronger schools overall, with a 89% average pass rate compared to 78% in Warrenton. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Warrenton, standout schools include Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Arlington or Warrenton?
Arlington has the shorter commute to downtown at ~15 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Arlington has Metro access (Rosslyn). Warrenton has no direct Metro access.
Is Arlington or Warrenton better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Arlington offers urban energy with a neighborhood feel. Warrenton is the county seat of Fauquier County, known for its equestrian culture, charming Old Town, and rolling countryside. The best choice depends on your priorities: budget, school quality, commute length, and neighborhood feel. smover can help you find a verified agent in either city who specializes in family-friendly neighborhoods.
Market data verified by smover using real transaction records. School data from Virginia DOE, Maryland MSDE, and DC OSSE public reports. Property tax rates from Virginia Dept. of Taxation (2024). Walkability scores from Walk Score (2024). Crime data from FBI UCR and Virginia State Police (2023). Commute times are approximate rush-hour estimates. Updated March 2026.