Market Overview
Fredericksburg is pricier ($477K median vs $450K), a difference of about $27K. Dumfries moves faster, with homes averaging 20 days on market compared to 29 in Fredericksburg. Dumfries offers a lower entry point at $200K–$750K.
Dumfries
VA
Fredericksburg
VA
Median Price
$450K
$477K
Avg Days on Market
20 days
29 days
Price Range
$200K–$750K
$151K–$3.8M
Top Neighborhoods
Montclair, Potomac Club, Triangle, Cherry Hill
Downtown, College Heights, Idlewild, Braehead
Schools
Fredericksburg leads on school quality with a 73% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Dumfries include Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. In Fredericksburg, families look to James Monroe High School and Walker-Grant Middle School. See Dumfries schools | See Fredericksburg schools
Dumfries
VA
Fredericksburg
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
71%
73%
Top Schools
Forest Park High School, Graham Park Middle School, Leesylvania Elementary
James Monroe High School, Walker-Grant Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Dumfries is closer to downtown at ~45 minutes vs ~65 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Dumfries (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234), Fredericksburg (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 3).
Dumfries
VA
Fredericksburg
VA
Drive to Downtown
~45 min
~65 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 3
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dumfries or Fredericksburg more affordable?
Dumfries is more affordable with a median home price of $450K, compared to $477K in Fredericksburg. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Dumfries prices range from $200K–$750K. Fredericksburg prices range from $151K–$3.8M.
Which has better schools, Dumfries or Fredericksburg?
Fredericksburg has stronger schools overall, with a 73% average pass rate compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Dumfries include Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. In Fredericksburg, standout schools include James Monroe High School and Walker-Grant Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Dumfries or Fredericksburg?
Dumfries has the shorter commute to downtown at ~45 minutes vs ~65 minutes. Dumfries has no direct Metro access. Fredericksburg has no direct Metro access.
Is Dumfries or Fredericksburg 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. Fredericksburg is a historic riverfront city with a vibrant downtown, unique shops, and a growing arts scene. 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.