Market Overview
Manassas is pricier ($568K median vs $350K), a difference of about $218K. Chesterfield moves faster, with homes averaging 17 days on market compared to 22 in Manassas. Chesterfield offers a lower entry point at $150K–$900K.
Chesterfield
VA
Manassas
VA
Median Price
$350K
$568K
Avg Days on Market
17 days
22 days
Price Range
$150K–$900K
$60K–$1.9M
Top Neighborhoods
Midlothian, Brandermill, Woodlake, Moseley
Old Town Manassas, Georgetown South, Signal Hill, Sudley
Schools
Chesterfield leads on school quality with a 79% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 72% in Manassas. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. In Manassas, families look to Osbourn High School and Metz Middle School. See Chesterfield schools | See Manassas schools
Chesterfield
VA
Manassas
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
79%
72%
Top Schools
Cosby High School, Clover Hill High School, Midlothian High School
Osbourn High School, Metz Middle School, Round 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), Manassas (I-66, Rt 28, Rt 234).
Chesterfield
VA
Manassas
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-66, Rt 28, Rt 234
Commuter Rail
None
VRE (Manassas line)
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chesterfield or Manassas more affordable?
Chesterfield is more affordable with a median home price of $350K, compared to $568K in Manassas. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Chesterfield prices range from $150K–$900K. Manassas prices range from $60K–$1.9M.
Which has better schools, Chesterfield or Manassas?
Chesterfield has stronger schools overall, with a 79% average pass rate compared to 72% in Manassas. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. In Manassas, standout schools include Osbourn High School and Metz Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Chesterfield or Manassas?
Chesterfield has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Chesterfield has no direct Metro access. Manassas has no direct Metro access.
Is Chesterfield or Manassas 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. Manassas is a charming independent city with a revitalized downtown, diverse dining, and proximity to the Civil War battlefield. 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.