Market Overview
Gaithersburg is pricier ($480K median vs $430K), a difference of about $50K. Both cities average 16 days on market. Severn offers a lower entry point at $200K–$750K.
Gaithersburg
MD
Severn
MD
Median Price
$480K
$430K
Avg Days on Market
16 days
16 days
Price Range
$175K–$1.2M
$200K–$750K
Top Neighborhoods
Kentlands, Lakelands, Quince Orchard, Washington Square
Severn Run, Meade Village, Piney Orchard, Arundel Mills
Schools
Severn leads on school quality with a 77% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 76% in Gaithersburg. Top schools in Gaithersburg include Quince Orchard High School and Gaithersburg High School. In Severn, families look to Meade High School and Old Mill High School. See Gaithersburg schools | See Severn schools
Gaithersburg
MD
Severn
MD
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
76%
77%
Top Schools
Quince Orchard High School, Gaithersburg High School, Ridgeview Middle School
Meade High School, Old Mill High School, Severn River Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Gaithersburg is closer to downtown at ~35 minutes vs ~40 minutes. Gaithersburg has 1 Metro station, including Shady Grove on the Red line. Major highway access: Gaithersburg (I-270, I-370, Rt 355), Severn (I-97, Rt 32, Rt 3).
Gaithersburg
MD
Severn
MD
Drive to Downtown
~35 min
~40 min
Metro Stations
1 Metro station (nearest: Shady Grove)
No Metro access
Metro Lines
Red
N/A
Major Highways
I-270, I-370, Rt 355, Rt 28
I-97, Rt 32, Rt 3
Commuter Rail
MARC (Brunswick Line)
None
MD
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gaithersburg or Severn more affordable?
Severn is more affordable with a median home price of $430K, compared to $480K in Gaithersburg. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Gaithersburg prices range from $175K–$1.2M. Severn prices range from $200K–$750K.
Which has better schools, Gaithersburg or Severn?
Severn has stronger schools overall, with a 77% average pass rate compared to 76% in Gaithersburg. Top schools in Gaithersburg include Quince Orchard High School and Gaithersburg High School. In Severn, standout schools include Meade High School and Old Mill High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Gaithersburg or Severn?
Gaithersburg has the shorter commute to downtown at ~35 minutes vs ~40 minutes. Gaithersburg has Metro access (Shady Grove). Severn has no direct Metro access.
Is Gaithersburg or Severn better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Gaithersburg is a diverse city along the I-270 corridor in Montgomery County. Severn is a growing community in Anne Arundel County, conveniently located near Fort Meade and the NSA. 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.