Market Overview
Fairfax's median sold price is $765K with homes averaging 26 days on market; Sterling is at $615K and 27 days (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026). Fairfax is pricier ($765K median vs $615K), a difference of about $150K. Fairfax moves faster, with homes averaging 26 days on market compared to 27 in Sterling. Sterling offers a lower entry point at $180K–$1.5M.
Fairfax
VA
Sterling
VA
Median Sold Price
12 months through Aug 2026
$765K
$615K
Avg Days on Market
12 months through Aug 2026
26 days
27 days
Price Range
$350K–$1.5M
$180K–$1.5M
Notable Neighborhoods
Mantua, Cobbdale, Greenbriar, Country Club Hills
Cascades, Countryside, Sugarland Run, Lowes Island
VA
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Related Comparisons
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fairfax or Sterling more affordable?
Sterling is more affordable with a median sold price of $615K, compared to $765K in Fairfax (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026). Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Fairfax prices range from $350K–$1.5M. Sterling prices range from $180K–$1.5M.
How do Fairfax and Sterling compare?
Fairfax combines public schools, diverse dining, and easy access to major employers. Sterling is a fast-growing Loudoun County community near Dulles Airport. The right choice depends on your priorities: budget, commute length, home types, and neighborhood feel. smover can connect you with a verified agent in either city.
Median sold prices and days on market are 12-month aggregates of settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026. 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 August 2026.