Market Overview
Bethesda's median sold price is $1.2M with homes averaging 38 days on market; Virginia Beach is at $364K and 17 days (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Jul 2026). Bethesda is pricier ($1.2M median vs $364K), a difference of about $866K. Virginia Beach moves faster, with homes averaging 17 days on market compared to 38 in Bethesda. Virginia Beach offers a lower entry point at $175K–$2M+.
Bethesda
MD
Virginia Beach
VA
Median Sold Price
12 months through Jul 2026
$1.2M
$364K
Avg Days on Market
12 months through Jul 2026
38 days
17 days
Price Range
$400K–$5M+
$175K–$2M+
Notable Neighborhoods
Downtown Bethesda, Bradley Hills, Burning Tree, Edgemoor
Oceanfront, Town Center, Great Neck, Kempsville
MD
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Related Comparisons
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bethesda or Virginia Beach more affordable?
Virginia Beach is more affordable with a median sold price of $364K, compared to $1.2M in Bethesda (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Jul 2026). Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Bethesda prices range from $400K–$5M+. Virginia Beach prices range from $175K–$2M+.
How do Bethesda and Virginia Beach compare?
Bethesda is one of the wealthiest communities in the D. Virginia Beach is the state's most populous city, offering oceanfront living, a thriving resort economy, and proximity to major military installations. The right choice depends on your priorities: budget, commute length, home types, and neighborhood feel. smover can connect you with a verified agent in either city.
Median sold prices and days on market are 12-month aggregates of settled sales in smover's records, through Jul 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 August 2026.