Market Overview
Bethesda is pricier ($1.1M median vs $255K), a difference of about $795K. Bethesda moves faster, with homes averaging 14 days on market compared to 25 in Hampton. Hampton offers a lower entry point at $80K–$650K.
Bethesda
MD
Hampton
VA
Median Price
$1.1M
$255K
Avg Days on Market
14 days
25 days
Price Range
$400K–$5M+
$80K–$650K
Top Neighborhoods
Downtown Bethesda, Bradley Hills, Burning Tree, Edgemoor
Phoebus, Buckroe Beach, Fox Hill, Wythe
Schools
Bethesda leads on school quality with a 93% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Bethesda include Walt Whitman High School and Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School. In Hampton, families look to Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. See Bethesda schools | See Hampton schools
Bethesda
MD
Hampton
VA
Quality Tier
Excellent
Average
Avg Pass Rate
93%
65%
Top Schools
Walt Whitman High School, Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School, Thomas W. Pyle Middle School
Hampton High School, Phoebus High School, Bethel High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Bethesda is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~25 minutes. Bethesda has 2 Metro stations, including Bethesda on the Red line. Major highway access: Bethesda (I-495, I-270, Rt 355), Hampton (I-64, I-664, Rt 258).
Bethesda
MD
Hampton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~25 min
Metro Stations
2 Metro stations (nearest: Bethesda)
No Metro access
Metro Lines
Red
N/A
Major Highways
I-495, I-270, Rt 355
I-64, I-664, Rt 258
Commuter Rail
None
None
Safety
Bethesda is rated "Safe" with a total crime rate 36% below Virginia average. Hampton is rated "Below Average" (42% above Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to broader regional trends. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.
Bethesda
MD
Hampton
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
0.6/1K
3.8/1K
Property Crime
10.2/1K
20.2/1K
vs Virginia Avg
36% below Virginia average
42% above Virginia average
MD
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bethesda or Hampton more affordable?
Hampton is more affordable with a median home price of $255K, compared to $1.1M in Bethesda. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Bethesda prices range from $400K–$5M+. Hampton prices range from $80K–$650K.
Which has better schools, Bethesda or Hampton?
Bethesda has stronger schools overall, with a 93% average pass rate compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Bethesda include Walt Whitman High School and Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School. In Hampton, standout schools include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Bethesda or Hampton?
Bethesda has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~25 minutes. Bethesda has Metro access (Bethesda). Hampton has no direct Metro access.
Is Bethesda or Hampton better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Bethesda is one of the wealthiest communities in the D. Hampton is a historic waterfront city on the Chesapeake Bay, home to Langley Air Force Base, NASA Langley Research Center, and Hampton University. 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.