Market Overview
Ashburn is pricier ($620K median vs $250K), a difference of about $370K. Ashburn moves faster, with homes averaging 16 days on market compared to 28 in Portsmouth. Portsmouth offers a lower entry point at $75K–$550K.
Ashburn
VA
Portsmouth
VA
Median Price
$620K
$250K
Avg Days on Market
16 days
28 days
Price Range
$350K–$1.2M
$75K–$550K
Top Neighborhoods
Broadlands, Brambleton, Lansdowne, One Loudoun
Olde Towne, Churchland, Western Branch, Port Norfolk
Schools
Ashburn leads on school quality with a 89% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 60% in Portsmouth. Top schools in Ashburn include Briar Woods High School and Stone Bridge High School. In Portsmouth, families look to Churchland High School and I.C. Norcom High School. See Ashburn schools | See Portsmouth schools
Ashburn
VA
Portsmouth
VA
Quality Tier
Excellent
Average
Avg Pass Rate
89%
60%
Top Schools
Briar Woods High School, Stone Bridge High School, Eagle Ridge Middle School
Churchland High School, I.C. Norcom High School, Cradock Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Portsmouth is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Ashburn has 2 Metro stations, including Ashburn on the Silver line. Major highway access: Ashburn (Rt 7, Rt 28, Dulles Greenway), Portsmouth (I-264, I-664, Rt 17).
Ashburn
VA
Portsmouth
VA
Drive to Downtown
~45 min
~10 min
Metro Stations
2 Metro stations (nearest: Ashburn)
No Metro access
Metro Lines
Silver
N/A
Major Highways
Rt 7, Rt 28, Dulles Greenway
I-264, I-664, Rt 17, Rt 58
Commuter Rail
None
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ashburn or Portsmouth more affordable?
Portsmouth is more affordable with a median home price of $250K, compared to $620K in Ashburn. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Ashburn prices range from $350K–$1.2M. Portsmouth prices range from $75K–$550K.
Which has better schools, Ashburn or Portsmouth?
Ashburn has stronger schools overall, with a 89% average pass rate compared to 60% in Portsmouth. Top schools in Ashburn include Briar Woods High School and Stone Bridge High School. In Portsmouth, standout schools include Churchland High School and I.C. Norcom High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Ashburn or Portsmouth?
Portsmouth has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Ashburn has Metro access (Ashburn). Portsmouth has no direct Metro access.
Is Ashburn or Portsmouth better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Ashburn is one of Loudoun County's fastest-growing communities. Portsmouth is a waterfront city across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk, with a rich naval heritage and a revitalizing downtown. 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.