Market Overview
Fredericksburg is pricier ($477K median vs $255K), a difference of about $222K. Hampton moves faster, with homes averaging 25 days on market compared to 29 in Fredericksburg. Hampton offers a lower entry point at $80K–$650K.
Fredericksburg
VA
Hampton
VA
Median Price
$477K
$255K
Avg Days on Market
29 days
25 days
Price Range
$151K–$3.8M
$80K–$650K
Top Neighborhoods
Downtown, College Heights, Idlewild, Braehead
Phoebus, Buckroe Beach, Fox Hill, Wythe
Schools
Fredericksburg leads on school quality with a 73% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Fredericksburg include James Monroe High School and Walker-Grant Middle School. In Hampton, families look to Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. See Fredericksburg schools | See Hampton schools
Fredericksburg
VA
Hampton
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Average
Avg Pass Rate
73%
65%
Top Schools
James Monroe High School, Walker-Grant Middle School
Hampton High School, Phoebus High School, Bethel High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Hampton is closer to downtown at ~25 minutes vs ~65 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Fredericksburg (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 3), Hampton (I-64, I-664, Rt 258).
Fredericksburg
VA
Hampton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~65 min
~25 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 3
I-64, I-664, Rt 258
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
Safety
Hampton is rated "Below Average" with a total crime rate 42% above Virginia average. Fredericksburg is rated "Below Average" (47% above Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to broader regional trends. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.
Fredericksburg
VA
Hampton
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
2.8/1K
3.8/1K
Property Crime
22.1/1K
20.2/1K
vs Virginia Avg
47% above Virginia average
42% above Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fredericksburg or Hampton more affordable?
Hampton is more affordable with a median home price of $255K, compared to $477K in Fredericksburg. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Fredericksburg prices range from $151K–$3.8M. Hampton prices range from $80K–$650K.
Which has better schools, Fredericksburg or Hampton?
Fredericksburg has stronger schools overall, with a 73% average pass rate compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Fredericksburg include James Monroe High School and Walker-Grant Middle School. In Hampton, standout schools include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Fredericksburg or Hampton?
Hampton has the shorter commute to downtown at ~25 minutes vs ~65 minutes. Fredericksburg has no direct Metro access. Hampton has no direct Metro access.
Is Fredericksburg or Hampton better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Fredericksburg is a historic riverfront city with a vibrant downtown, unique shops, and a growing arts scene. Hampton is a historic waterfront city on the Chesapeake Bay, home to Langley Air Force Base, NASA Langley Research Center, and Hampton University. 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.