Market Overview
Chesterfield is pricier ($350K median vs $225K), a difference of about $125K. Chesterfield moves faster, with homes averaging 17 days on market compared to 30 in Baltimore. Baltimore offers a lower entry point at $50K–$1.5M.
Baltimore
MD
Chesterfield
VA
Median Price
$225K
$350K
Avg Days on Market
30 days
17 days
Price Range
$50K–$1.5M
$150K–$900K
Top Neighborhoods
Canton, Fells Point, Federal Hill, Roland Park
Midlothian, Brandermill, Woodlake, Moseley
Schools
Chesterfield leads on school quality with a 79% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 55% in Baltimore. Top schools in Baltimore include Baltimore Polytechnic Institute and Baltimore City College. In Chesterfield, families look to Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. See Baltimore schools | See Chesterfield schools
Baltimore
MD
Chesterfield
VA
Quality Tier
Average
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
55%
79%
Top Schools
Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, Baltimore City College, Western High School
Cosby High School, Clover Hill High School, Midlothian High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Chesterfield is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~65 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Baltimore (I-95, I-695, I-83), Chesterfield (I-95, I-295, Rt 1).
Baltimore
MD
Chesterfield
VA
Drive to Downtown
~65 min
~20 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-95, I-695, I-83, I-295, Rt 1
I-95, I-295, Rt 1, Rt 10, Rt 360
Commuter Rail
MARC (Penn Line, Camden Line)
None
MD
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Baltimore or Chesterfield more affordable?
Baltimore is more affordable with a median home price of $225K, compared to $350K in Chesterfield. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Baltimore prices range from $50K–$1.5M. Chesterfield prices range from $150K–$900K.
Which has better schools, Baltimore or Chesterfield?
Chesterfield has stronger schools overall, with a 79% average pass rate compared to 55% in Baltimore. Top schools in Baltimore include Baltimore Polytechnic Institute and Baltimore City College. In Chesterfield, standout schools include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Baltimore or Chesterfield?
Chesterfield has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~65 minutes. Baltimore has no direct Metro access. Chesterfield has no direct Metro access.
Is Baltimore or Chesterfield better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Baltimore is a waterfront city with a rich cultural identity, world-class healthcare institutions, and diverse neighborhoods. Chesterfield County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the Richmond metro, offering new construction, strong schools, and affordable homes south of the James River. 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.