Market Overview
Gaithersburg is pricier ($480K median vs $350K), a difference of about $130K. Gaithersburg moves faster, with homes averaging 16 days on market compared to 17 in Chesterfield. Chesterfield offers a lower entry point at $150K–$900K.
Chesterfield
VA
Gaithersburg
MD
Median Price
$350K
$480K
Avg Days on Market
17 days
16 days
Price Range
$150K–$900K
$175K–$1.2M
Top Neighborhoods
Midlothian, Brandermill, Woodlake, Moseley
Kentlands, Lakelands, Quince Orchard, Washington Square
Schools
Chesterfield leads on school quality with a 79% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 76% in Gaithersburg. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. In Gaithersburg, families look to Quince Orchard High School and Gaithersburg High School. See Chesterfield schools | See Gaithersburg schools
Chesterfield
VA
Gaithersburg
MD
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
79%
76%
Top Schools
Cosby High School, Clover Hill High School, Midlothian High School
Quince Orchard High School, Gaithersburg High School, Ridgeview Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Chesterfield is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~35 minutes. Gaithersburg has 1 Metro station, including Shady Grove on the Red line. Major highway access: Chesterfield (I-95, I-295, Rt 1), Gaithersburg (I-270, I-370, Rt 355).
Chesterfield
VA
Gaithersburg
MD
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~35 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
1 Metro station (nearest: Shady Grove)
Metro Lines
N/A
Red
Major Highways
I-95, I-295, Rt 1, Rt 10, Rt 360
I-270, I-370, Rt 355, Rt 28
Commuter Rail
None
MARC (Brunswick Line)
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chesterfield or Gaithersburg more affordable?
Chesterfield is more affordable with a median home price of $350K, compared to $480K in Gaithersburg. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Chesterfield prices range from $150K–$900K. Gaithersburg prices range from $175K–$1.2M.
Which has better schools, Chesterfield or Gaithersburg?
Chesterfield has stronger schools overall, with a 79% average pass rate compared to 76% in Gaithersburg. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. In Gaithersburg, standout schools include Quince Orchard High School and Gaithersburg High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Chesterfield or Gaithersburg?
Chesterfield has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~35 minutes. Chesterfield has no direct Metro access. Gaithersburg has Metro access (Shady Grove).
Is Chesterfield or Gaithersburg 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. Gaithersburg is a diverse city along the I-270 corridor in Montgomery County. 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.