Market Overview
Frederick is pricier ($420K median vs $350K), a difference of about $70K. Chesterfield moves faster, with homes averaging 17 days on market compared to 20 in Frederick. Chesterfield offers a lower entry point at $150K–$900K.
Chesterfield
VA
Frederick
MD
Median Price
$350K
$420K
Avg Days on Market
17 days
20 days
Price Range
$150K–$900K
$200K–$1M
Top Neighborhoods
Midlothian, Brandermill, Woodlake, Moseley
Downtown Frederick, Ballenger Creek, Urbana, Spring Ridge
Schools
Frederick leads on school quality with a 79% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 79% in Chesterfield. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. In Frederick, families look to Urbana High School and Oakdale High School. See Chesterfield schools | See Frederick schools
Chesterfield
VA
Frederick
MD
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
79%
79%
Top Schools
Cosby High School, Clover Hill High School, Midlothian High School
Urbana High School, Oakdale High School, Gov. Thomas Johnson High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Chesterfield is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Chesterfield (I-95, I-295, Rt 1), Frederick (I-70, I-270, Rt 15).
Chesterfield
VA
Frederick
MD
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~60 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-70, I-270, Rt 15, Rt 340
Commuter Rail
None
MARC (Brunswick Line)
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chesterfield or Frederick more affordable?
Chesterfield is more affordable with a median home price of $350K, compared to $420K in Frederick. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Chesterfield prices range from $150K–$900K. Frederick prices range from $200K–$1M.
Which has better schools, Chesterfield or Frederick?
Frederick has stronger schools overall, with a 79% average pass rate compared to 79% in Chesterfield. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. In Frederick, standout schools include Urbana High School and Oakdale High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Chesterfield or Frederick?
Chesterfield has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Chesterfield has no direct Metro access. Frederick has no direct Metro access.
Is Chesterfield or Frederick 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. Frederick is a historic city with a thriving arts scene, walkable downtown, and growing tech presence. 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.