Market Overview
Fairfax is pricier ($640K median vs $500K), a difference of about $140K. Fairfax moves faster, with homes averaging 14 days on market compared to 28 in Warrenton. Warrenton offers a lower entry point at $225K–$2M.
Fairfax
VA
Warrenton
VA
Median Price
$640K
$500K
Avg Days on Market
14 days
28 days
Price Range
$350K–$1.5M
$225K–$2M
Top Neighborhoods
Mantua, Cobbdale, Greenbriar, Country Club Hills
Old Town Warrenton, Blackwell, Vint Hill, Rittenour
Schools
Fairfax leads on school quality with a 87% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 78% in Warrenton. Top schools in Fairfax include Thomas Jefferson HS for Science & Tech and Langley High School. In Warrenton, families look to Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. See Fairfax schools | See Warrenton schools
Fairfax
VA
Warrenton
VA
Quality Tier
Excellent
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
87%
78%
Top Schools
Thomas Jefferson HS for Science & Tech, Langley High School, McLean High School
Fauquier High School, Taylor Middle School, Brumfield Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Fairfax is closer to downtown at ~35 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Fairfax has 2 Metro stations, including Vienna/Fairfax-GMU on the Orange line. Major highway access: Fairfax (I-66, I-495, Rt 50), Warrenton (Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211).
Fairfax
VA
Warrenton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~35 min
~60 min
Metro Stations
2 Metro stations (nearest: Vienna/Fairfax-GMU)
No Metro access
Metro Lines
Orange
N/A
Major Highways
I-66, I-495, Rt 50, Rt 29
Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211, Rt 15/29
Commuter Rail
None
None
Walkability
Fairfax is more walkable with a Walk Score of 35 (Car-Dependent), compared to 32 in Warrenton. Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Mantua and Old Town Warrenton score much higher than suburban areas.
Fairfax
VA
Warrenton
VA
Walk Score
Bike Score
42
28
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fairfax or Warrenton more affordable?
Warrenton is more affordable with a median home price of $500K, compared to $640K in Fairfax. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Fairfax prices range from $350K–$1.5M. Warrenton prices range from $225K–$2M.
Which has better schools, Fairfax or Warrenton?
Fairfax has stronger schools overall, with a 87% average pass rate compared to 78% in Warrenton. Top schools in Fairfax include Thomas Jefferson HS for Science & Tech and Langley High School. In Warrenton, standout schools include Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Fairfax or Warrenton?
Fairfax has the shorter commute to downtown at ~35 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Fairfax has Metro access (Vienna/Fairfax-GMU). Warrenton has no direct Metro access.
Is Fairfax or Warrenton better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Fairfax combines excellent schools, diverse dining, and easy access to major employers. Warrenton is the county seat of Fauquier County, known for its equestrian culture, charming Old Town, and rolling countryside. 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.