Market Overview
Rockville is pricier ($560K median vs $350K), a difference of about $210K. Both cities average 17 days on market. Chesterfield offers a lower entry point at $150K–$900K.
Chesterfield
VA
Rockville
MD
Median Price
$350K
$560K
Avg Days on Market
17 days
17 days
Price Range
$150K–$900K
$200K–$1.8M
Top Neighborhoods
Midlothian, Brandermill, Woodlake, Moseley
Rockville Town Center, Twinbrook, King Farm, Fallsgrove
Schools
Rockville leads on school quality with a 85% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 79% in Chesterfield. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. In Rockville, families look to Richard Montgomery High School and Thomas S. Wootton High School. See Chesterfield schools | See Rockville schools
Chesterfield
VA
Rockville
MD
Quality Tier
Strong
Excellent
Avg Pass Rate
79%
85%
Top Schools
Cosby High School, Clover Hill High School, Midlothian High School
Richard Montgomery High School, Thomas S. Wootton High School, Julius West Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Chesterfield is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~30 minutes. Rockville has 3 Metro stations, including Rockville on the Red line. Major highway access: Chesterfield (I-95, I-295, Rt 1), Rockville (I-270, I-495, Rt 355).
Chesterfield
VA
Rockville
MD
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~30 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
3 Metro stations (nearest: Rockville)
Metro Lines
N/A
Red
Major Highways
I-95, I-295, Rt 1, Rt 10, Rt 360
I-270, I-495, Rt 355, Rt 28
Commuter Rail
None
MARC (Brunswick Line)
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chesterfield or Rockville more affordable?
Chesterfield is more affordable with a median home price of $350K, compared to $560K in Rockville. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Chesterfield prices range from $150K–$900K. Rockville prices range from $200K–$1.8M.
Which has better schools, Chesterfield or Rockville?
Rockville has stronger schools overall, with a 85% average pass rate compared to 79% in Chesterfield. Top schools in Chesterfield include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. In Rockville, standout schools include Richard Montgomery High School and Thomas S. Wootton High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Chesterfield or Rockville?
Chesterfield has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~30 minutes. Chesterfield has no direct Metro access. Rockville has Metro access (Rockville).
Is Chesterfield or Rockville 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. Rockville is the seat of Montgomery County, offering a blend of urban amenities and suburban neighborhoods. 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.