Market Overview
Lorton is pricier ($610K median vs $450K), a difference of about $160K. Lorton moves faster, with homes averaging 15 days on market compared to 20 in Dumfries. Dumfries offers a lower entry point at $200K–$750K.
Dumfries
VA
Lorton
VA
Median Price
$450K
$610K
Avg Days on Market
20 days
15 days
Price Range
$200K–$750K
$250K–$1.2M
Top Neighborhoods
Montclair, Potomac Club, Triangle, Cherry Hill
Lorton Station, Laurel Hill, Gunston, Newington
Schools
Lorton leads on school quality with a 81% 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 Lorton, families look to South County High School and Hayfield Secondary School. See Dumfries schools | See Lorton schools
Dumfries
VA
Lorton
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
71%
81%
Top Schools
Forest Park High School, Graham Park Middle School, Leesylvania Elementary
South County High School, Hayfield Secondary School, Lorton Station Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Lorton is closer to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Dumfries (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234), Lorton (I-95, Rt 1, Lorton Rd).
Dumfries
VA
Lorton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~45 min
~30 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, Lorton Rd
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dumfries or Lorton more affordable?
Dumfries is more affordable with a median home price of $450K, compared to $610K in Lorton. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Dumfries prices range from $200K–$750K. Lorton prices range from $250K–$1.2M.
Which has better schools, Dumfries or Lorton?
Lorton has stronger schools overall, with a 81% average pass rate compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Dumfries include Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. In Lorton, standout schools include South County High School and Hayfield Secondary School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Dumfries or Lorton?
Lorton has the shorter commute to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Dumfries has no direct Metro access. Lorton has no direct Metro access.
Is Dumfries or Lorton 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. Lorton is a revitalized community in southern Fairfax County, transformed by the Workhouse Arts Center and new residential development. 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.