Market Overview
Dumfries is pricier ($450K median vs $350K), a difference of about $100K. Chesterfield moves faster, with homes averaging 17 days on market compared to 20 in Dumfries. Chesterfield offers a lower entry point at $150K–$900K.
Chesterfield
VA
Dumfries
VA
Median Price
$350K
$450K
Avg Days on Market
17 days
20 days
Price Range
$150K–$900K
$200K–$750K
Top Neighborhoods
Midlothian, Brandermill, Woodlake, Moseley
Montclair, Potomac Club, Triangle, Cherry Hill
Schools
Chesterfield leads on school quality with a 79% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. In Dumfries, families look to Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. See Chesterfield schools | See Dumfries schools
Chesterfield
VA
Dumfries
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
79%
71%
Top Schools
Cosby High School, Clover Hill High School, Midlothian High School
Forest Park High School, Graham Park Middle School, Leesylvania Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Chesterfield is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Chesterfield (I-95, I-295, Rt 1), Dumfries (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234).
Chesterfield
VA
Dumfries
VA
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~45 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-95, I-295, Rt 1, Rt 10, Rt 360
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234
Commuter Rail
None
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chesterfield or Dumfries more affordable?
Chesterfield is more affordable with a median home price of $350K, compared to $450K in Dumfries. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Chesterfield prices range from $150K–$900K. Dumfries prices range from $200K–$750K.
Which has better schools, Chesterfield or Dumfries?
Chesterfield has stronger schools overall, with a 79% average pass rate compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High 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, Chesterfield or Dumfries?
Chesterfield has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Chesterfield has no direct Metro access. Dumfries has no direct Metro access.
Is Chesterfield or Dumfries better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Chesterfield County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the Richmond metro, offering new construction, strong schools, and affordable homes south of the James River. 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.