Market Overview
Baltimore's median sold price is $275K with homes averaging 41 days on market; Sterling is at $615K and 27 days (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026). Sterling is pricier ($615K median vs $275K), a difference of about $340K. Sterling moves faster, with homes averaging 27 days on market compared to 41 in Baltimore. Baltimore offers a lower entry point at $50K–$1.5M.
Baltimore
MD
Sterling
VA
Median Sold Price
12 months through Aug 2026
$275K
$615K
Avg Days on Market
12 months through Aug 2026
41 days
27 days
Price Range
$50K–$1.5M
$180K–$1.5M
Notable Neighborhoods
Canton, Fells Point, Federal Hill, Roland Park
Cascades, Countryside, Sugarland Run, Lowes Island
MD
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Related Comparisons
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Baltimore or Sterling more affordable?
Baltimore is more affordable with a median sold price of $275K, compared to $615K in Sterling (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026). Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Baltimore prices range from $50K–$1.5M. Sterling prices range from $180K–$1.5M.
How do Baltimore and Sterling compare?
Baltimore is a waterfront city with a rich cultural identity, world-class healthcare institutions, and diverse neighborhoods. Sterling is a fast-growing Loudoun County community near Dulles Airport. The right choice depends on your priorities: budget, commute length, home types, and neighborhood feel. smover lets you compare agent profiles and available transaction records in either city.
Median sold prices and days on market are 12-month aggregates of settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026. 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 September 2026.