Market Overview
McLean is pricier ($1.4M median vs $480K), a difference of about $920K. Gaithersburg moves faster, with homes averaging 16 days on market compared to 18 in McLean. Gaithersburg offers a lower entry point at $175K–$1.2M.
Gaithersburg
MD
McLean
VA
Median Price
$480K
$1.4M
Avg Days on Market
16 days
18 days
Price Range
$175K–$1.2M
$700K–$5M+
Top Neighborhoods
Kentlands, Lakelands, Quince Orchard, Washington Square
Langley Farms, Chain Bridge Forest, Broyhill Langley Estates, McLean Hamlet
Walkability
Gaithersburg is more walkable with a Walk Score of 42 (Car-Dependent), compared to 28 in McLean. Transit scores: Gaithersburg (32) vs McLean (22). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Kentlands and Langley Farms score much higher than suburban areas.
Gaithersburg
MD
McLean
VA
Walk Score
Transit Score
32
22
Bike Score
45
32
Safety
McLean is rated "Very Safe" with a total crime rate 60% below Virginia average. Gaithersburg is rated "Average" (Near Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to the Virginia state average. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.
Gaithersburg
MD
McLean
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
1.3/1K
0.3/1K
Property Crime
15.1/1K
6.5/1K
vs Virginia Avg
Near Virginia average
60% below Virginia average
MD
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gaithersburg or McLean more affordable?
Gaithersburg is more affordable with a median home price of $480K, compared to $1.4M in McLean. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Gaithersburg prices range from $175K–$1.2M. McLean prices range from $700K–$5M+.
How do Gaithersburg and McLean compare?
Gaithersburg is a diverse city along the I-270 corridor in Montgomery County. McLean is synonymous with luxury living in Northern Virginia. 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.
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 June 2026.