Market Overview
Chantilly is pricier ($710K median vs $250K), a difference of about $460K. Chantilly moves faster, with homes averaging 19 days on market compared to 28 in Portsmouth. Portsmouth offers a lower entry point at $75K–$550K.
Chantilly
VA
Portsmouth
VA
Median Price
$710K
$250K
Avg Days on Market
19 days
28 days
Price Range
$25K–$2.8M
$75K–$550K
Top Neighborhoods
Sully Station, South Riding, Poplar Tree Estates, Westfields
Olde Towne, Churchland, Western Branch, Port Norfolk
Schools
Chantilly leads on school quality with a 85% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 60% in Portsmouth. Top schools in Chantilly include Chantilly High School and Rocky Run Middle School. In Portsmouth, families look to Churchland High School and I.C. Norcom High School. See Chantilly schools | See Portsmouth schools
Chantilly
VA
Portsmouth
VA
Quality Tier
Excellent
Average
Avg Pass Rate
85%
60%
Top Schools
Chantilly High School, Rocky Run Middle School, Greenbriar West Elementary
Churchland High School, I.C. Norcom High School, Cradock Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Portsmouth is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~40 minutes. Chantilly has 1 Metro station, including Dulles Airport on the Silver line. Major highway access: Chantilly (I-66, Rt 28, Rt 50), Portsmouth (I-264, I-664, Rt 17).
Chantilly
VA
Portsmouth
VA
Drive to Downtown
~40 min
~10 min
Metro Stations
1 Metro station (nearest: Dulles Airport)
No Metro access
Metro Lines
Silver
N/A
Major Highways
I-66, Rt 28, Rt 50
I-264, I-664, Rt 17, Rt 58
Commuter Rail
None
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chantilly or Portsmouth more affordable?
Portsmouth is more affordable with a median home price of $250K, compared to $710K in Chantilly. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Chantilly prices range from $25K–$2.8M. Portsmouth prices range from $75K–$550K.
Which has better schools, Chantilly or Portsmouth?
Chantilly has stronger schools overall, with a 85% average pass rate compared to 60% in Portsmouth. Top schools in Chantilly include Chantilly High School and Rocky Run Middle School. In Portsmouth, standout schools include Churchland High School and I.C. Norcom High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Chantilly or Portsmouth?
Portsmouth has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~40 minutes. Chantilly has Metro access (Dulles Airport). Portsmouth has no direct Metro access.
Is Chantilly or Portsmouth better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Chantilly offers spacious homes and excellent schools in western Fairfax County. Portsmouth is a waterfront city across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk, with a rich naval heritage and a revitalizing downtown. 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.