Market Overview
Reston is pricier ($570K median vs $450K), a difference of about $120K. Reston 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
Reston
VA
Median Price
$450K
$570K
Avg Days on Market
20 days
14 days
Price Range
$200K–$750K
$250K–$1.5M
Top Neighborhoods
Montclair, Potomac Club, Triangle, Cherry Hill
Lake Anne, North Point, South Lakes, Hunters Woods
Schools
Reston leads on school quality with a 83% 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 Reston, families look to South Lakes High School and Langston Hughes Middle School. See Dumfries schools | See Reston schools
Dumfries
VA
Reston
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
71%
83%
Top Schools
Forest Park High School, Graham Park Middle School, Leesylvania Elementary
South Lakes High School, Langston Hughes Middle School, Terraset Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Reston is closer to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Reston has 2 Metro stations, including Reston Town Center on the Silver line. Major highway access: Dumfries (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234), Reston (Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 267).
Dumfries
VA
Reston
VA
Drive to Downtown
~45 min
~30 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
2 Metro stations (nearest: Reston Town Center)
Metro Lines
N/A
Silver
Major Highways
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234
Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 267
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dumfries or Reston more affordable?
Dumfries is more affordable with a median home price of $450K, compared to $570K in Reston. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Dumfries prices range from $200K–$750K. Reston prices range from $250K–$1.5M.
Which has better schools, Dumfries or Reston?
Reston has stronger schools overall, with a 83% average pass rate compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Dumfries include Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. In Reston, standout schools include South Lakes High School and Langston Hughes Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Dumfries or Reston?
Reston has the shorter commute to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Dumfries has no direct Metro access. Reston has Metro access (Reston Town Center).
Is Dumfries or Reston 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. Reston is a planned community built around lakes, wooded trails, and town centers. 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.