Market Overview
Fairfax is pricier ($640K median vs $450K), a difference of about $190K. Fairfax moves faster, with homes averaging 14 days on market compared to 20 in Dumfries. Dumfries offers a lower entry point at $200K–$750K.
Dumfries
VA
Fairfax
VA
Median Price
$450K
$640K
Avg Days on Market
20 days
14 days
Price Range
$200K–$750K
$350K–$1.5M
Top Neighborhoods
Montclair, Potomac Club, Triangle, Cherry Hill
Mantua, Cobbdale, Greenbriar, Country Club Hills
Schools
Fairfax leads on school quality with a 87% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Dumfries include Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. In Fairfax, families look to Thomas Jefferson HS for Science & Tech and Langley High School. See Dumfries schools | See Fairfax schools
Dumfries
VA
Fairfax
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Excellent
Avg Pass Rate
71%
87%
Top Schools
Forest Park High School, Graham Park Middle School, Leesylvania Elementary
Thomas Jefferson HS for Science & Tech, Langley High School, McLean High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Fairfax is closer to downtown at ~35 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Fairfax has 2 Metro stations, including Vienna/Fairfax-GMU on the Orange line. Major highway access: Dumfries (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234), Fairfax (I-66, I-495, Rt 50).
Dumfries
VA
Fairfax
VA
Drive to Downtown
~45 min
~35 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
2 Metro stations (nearest: Vienna/Fairfax-GMU)
Metro Lines
N/A
Orange
Major Highways
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234
I-66, I-495, Rt 50, Rt 29
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dumfries or Fairfax more affordable?
Dumfries is more affordable with a median home price of $450K, compared to $640K in Fairfax. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Dumfries prices range from $200K–$750K. Fairfax prices range from $350K–$1.5M.
Which has better schools, Dumfries or Fairfax?
Fairfax has stronger schools overall, with a 87% average pass rate compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Dumfries include Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. In Fairfax, standout schools include Thomas Jefferson HS for Science & Tech and Langley High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Dumfries or Fairfax?
Fairfax has the shorter commute to downtown at ~35 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Dumfries has no direct Metro access. Fairfax has Metro access (Vienna/Fairfax-GMU).
Is Dumfries or Fairfax better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Dumfries is a historic town in Prince William County offering affordable homes near Quantico Marine Corps Base. Fairfax combines excellent schools, diverse dining, and easy access to major employers. 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.