Market Overview
Herndon is pricier ($710K median vs $350K), a difference of about $360K. Chesterfield moves faster, with homes averaging 17 days on market compared to 23 in Herndon. Chesterfield offers a lower entry point at $150K–$900K.
Chesterfield
VA
Herndon
VA
Median Price
$350K
$710K
Avg Days on Market
17 days
23 days
Price Range
$150K–$900K
$175K–$2.2M
Top Neighborhoods
Midlothian, Brandermill, Woodlake, Moseley
Herndon Town Center, McNair Farms, Reflection Lake, West Ox Cluster
Schools
Herndon leads on school quality with a 80% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 79% in Chesterfield. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. In Herndon, families look to Herndon High School and Rachel Carson Middle School. See Chesterfield schools | See Herndon schools
Chesterfield
VA
Herndon
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
79%
80%
Top Schools
Cosby High School, Clover Hill High School, Midlothian High School
Herndon High School, Rachel Carson Middle School, Dranesville Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Chesterfield is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~35 minutes. Herndon has 2 Metro stations, including Herndon on the Silver line. Major highway access: Chesterfield (I-95, I-295, Rt 1), Herndon (Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 28).
Chesterfield
VA
Herndon
VA
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~35 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
2 Metro stations (nearest: Herndon)
Metro Lines
N/A
Silver
Major Highways
I-95, I-295, Rt 1, Rt 10, Rt 360
Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 28
Commuter Rail
None
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chesterfield or Herndon more affordable?
Chesterfield is more affordable with a median home price of $350K, compared to $710K in Herndon. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Chesterfield prices range from $150K–$900K. Herndon prices range from $175K–$2.2M.
Which has better schools, Chesterfield or Herndon?
Herndon has stronger schools overall, with a 80% average pass rate compared to 79% in Chesterfield. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. In Herndon, standout schools include Herndon High School and Rachel Carson Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Chesterfield or Herndon?
Chesterfield has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~35 minutes. Chesterfield has no direct Metro access. Herndon has Metro access (Herndon).
Is Chesterfield or Herndon 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. Herndon is a walkable town near the Dulles technology corridor. 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.