Market Overview
Bristow is pricier ($570K median vs $450K), a difference of about $120K. Bristow moves faster, with homes averaging 16 days on market compared to 20 in Dumfries. Dumfries offers a lower entry point at $200K–$750K.
Bristow
VA
Dumfries
VA
Median Price
$570K
$450K
Avg Days on Market
16 days
20 days
Price Range
$300K–$900K
$200K–$750K
Top Neighborhoods
Kingsbrooke, Victory Lakes, Braemar, Linton Hall
Montclair, Potomac Club, Triangle, Cherry Hill
Schools
Bristow leads on school quality with a 79% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Bristow include Patriot High School and Marsteller Middle School. In Dumfries, families look to Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. See Bristow schools | See Dumfries schools
Bristow
VA
Dumfries
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
79%
71%
Top Schools
Patriot High School, Marsteller Middle School, Bristow Run Elementary
Forest Park High School, Graham Park Middle School, Leesylvania Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Dumfries is closer to downtown at ~45 minutes vs ~50 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Bristow (I-66, Rt 28, Rt 29), Dumfries (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234).
Bristow
VA
Dumfries
VA
Drive to Downtown
~50 min
~45 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-66, Rt 28, Rt 29
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234
Commuter Rail
VRE (Manassas line)
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bristow or Dumfries more affordable?
Dumfries is more affordable with a median home price of $450K, compared to $570K in Bristow. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Bristow prices range from $300K–$900K. Dumfries prices range from $200K–$750K.
Which has better schools, Bristow or Dumfries?
Bristow has stronger schools overall, with a 79% average pass rate compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Bristow include Patriot High School and Marsteller Middle School. In Dumfries, standout schools include Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Bristow or Dumfries?
Dumfries has the shorter commute to downtown at ~45 minutes vs ~50 minutes. Bristow has no direct Metro access. Dumfries has no direct Metro access.
Is Bristow or Dumfries better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Bristow is a growing community in Prince William County offering spacious newer homes, family-friendly neighborhoods, and convenient access to I-66. Dumfries is a historic town in Prince William County offering affordable homes near Quantico Marine Corps Base. 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.