Market Overview
Frederick is pricier ($420K median vs $370K), a difference of about $50K. Frederick moves faster, with homes averaging 20 days on market compared to 24 in Suffolk. Suffolk offers a lower entry point at $175K–$800K.
Frederick
MD
Suffolk
VA
Median Price
$420K
$370K
Avg Days on Market
20 days
24 days
Price Range
$200K–$1M
$175K–$800K
Top Neighborhoods
Downtown Frederick, Ballenger Creek, Urbana, Spring Ridge
Harbour View, Bennetts Creek, Godwin Boulevard, Riverfront
Schools
Frederick leads on school quality with a 79% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 72% in Suffolk. Top schools in Frederick include Urbana High School and Oakdale High School. In Suffolk, families look to Nansemond River High School and King's Fork High School. See Frederick schools | See Suffolk schools
Frederick
MD
Suffolk
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
79%
72%
Top Schools
Urbana High School, Oakdale High School, Gov. Thomas Johnson High School
Nansemond River High School, King's Fork High School, Lakeland High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Suffolk is closer to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Frederick (I-70, I-270, Rt 15), Suffolk (Rt 58, Rt 13, Rt 460).
Frederick
MD
Suffolk
VA
Drive to Downtown
~60 min
~30 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-70, I-270, Rt 15, Rt 340
Rt 58, Rt 13, Rt 460, I-664
Commuter Rail
MARC (Brunswick Line)
None
MD
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Frederick or Suffolk more affordable?
Suffolk is more affordable with a median home price of $370K, compared to $420K in Frederick. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Frederick prices range from $200K–$1M. Suffolk prices range from $175K–$800K.
Which has better schools, Frederick or Suffolk?
Frederick has stronger schools overall, with a 79% average pass rate compared to 72% in Suffolk. Top schools in Frederick include Urbana High School and Oakdale High School. In Suffolk, standout schools include Nansemond River High School and King's Fork High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Frederick or Suffolk?
Suffolk has the shorter commute to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Frederick has no direct Metro access. Suffolk has no direct Metro access.
Is Frederick or Suffolk better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Frederick is a historic city with a thriving arts scene, walkable downtown, and growing tech presence. Suffolk is the largest city by area in Virginia, offering a mix of new construction communities and rural charm. 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.