Market Overview
Bristow is pricier ($570K median vs $430K), a difference of about $140K. Both cities average 16 days on market. Severn offers a lower entry point at $200K–$750K.
Bristow
VA
Severn
MD
Median Price
$570K
$430K
Avg Days on Market
16 days
16 days
Price Range
$300K–$900K
$200K–$750K
Top Neighborhoods
Kingsbrooke, Victory Lakes, Braemar, Linton Hall
Severn Run, Meade Village, Piney Orchard, Arundel Mills
Schools
Bristow leads on school quality with a 79% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 77% in Severn. Top schools in Bristow include Patriot High School and Marsteller Middle School. In Severn, families look to Meade High School and Old Mill High School. See Bristow schools | See Severn schools
Bristow
VA
Severn
MD
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
79%
77%
Top Schools
Patriot High School, Marsteller Middle School, Bristow Run Elementary
Meade High School, Old Mill High School, Severn River Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Severn is closer to downtown at ~40 minutes vs ~50 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Bristow (I-66, Rt 28, Rt 29), Severn (I-97, Rt 32, Rt 3).
Bristow
VA
Severn
MD
Drive to Downtown
~50 min
~40 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-66, Rt 28, Rt 29
I-97, Rt 32, Rt 3
Commuter Rail
VRE (Manassas line)
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bristow or Severn more affordable?
Severn is more affordable with a median home price of $430K, 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. Severn prices range from $200K–$750K.
Which has better schools, Bristow or Severn?
Bristow has stronger schools overall, with a 79% average pass rate compared to 77% in Severn. Top schools in Bristow include Patriot High School and Marsteller Middle School. In Severn, standout schools include Meade High School and Old Mill High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Bristow or Severn?
Severn has the shorter commute to downtown at ~40 minutes vs ~50 minutes. Bristow has no direct Metro access. Severn has no direct Metro access.
Is Bristow or Severn 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. Severn is a growing community in Anne Arundel County, conveniently located near Fort Meade and the NSA. 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.