Market Overview
Herndon is pricier ($710K median vs $450K), a difference of about $260K. Dumfries moves faster, with homes averaging 20 days on market compared to 23 in Herndon. Dumfries offers a lower entry point at $200K–$750K.
Dumfries
VA
Herndon
VA
Median Price
$450K
$710K
Avg Days on Market
20 days
23 days
Price Range
$200K–$750K
$175K–$2.2M
Top Neighborhoods
Montclair, Potomac Club, Triangle, Cherry Hill
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 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Dumfries include Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. In Herndon, families look to Herndon High School and Rachel Carson Middle School. See Dumfries schools | See Herndon schools
Dumfries
VA
Herndon
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
71%
80%
Top Schools
Forest Park High School, Graham Park Middle School, Leesylvania Elementary
Herndon High School, Rachel Carson Middle School, Dranesville Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Herndon is closer to downtown at ~35 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Herndon has 2 Metro stations, including Herndon on the Silver line. Major highway access: Dumfries (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234), Herndon (Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 28).
Dumfries
VA
Herndon
VA
Drive to Downtown
~45 min
~35 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
2 Metro stations (nearest: Herndon)
Metro Lines
N/A
Silver
Major Highways
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234
Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 28
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dumfries or Herndon more affordable?
Dumfries is more affordable with a median home price of $450K, compared to $710K in Herndon. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Dumfries prices range from $200K–$750K. Herndon prices range from $175K–$2.2M.
Which has better schools, Dumfries or Herndon?
Herndon has stronger schools overall, with a 80% average pass rate compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Dumfries include Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle 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, Dumfries or Herndon?
Herndon has the shorter commute to downtown at ~35 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Dumfries has no direct Metro access. Herndon has Metro access (Herndon).
Is Dumfries or Herndon 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. 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.