Market Overview
Lorton is pricier ($610K median vs $255K), a difference of about $355K. Lorton moves faster, with homes averaging 15 days on market compared to 25 in Hampton. Hampton offers a lower entry point at $80K–$650K.
Hampton
VA
Lorton
VA
Median Price
$255K
$610K
Avg Days on Market
25 days
15 days
Price Range
$80K–$650K
$250K–$1.2M
Top Neighborhoods
Phoebus, Buckroe Beach, Fox Hill, Wythe
Lorton Station, Laurel Hill, Gunston, Newington
Schools
Lorton leads on school quality with a 81% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Hampton include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. In Lorton, families look to South County High School and Hayfield Secondary School. See Hampton schools | See Lorton schools
Hampton
VA
Lorton
VA
Quality Tier
Average
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
65%
81%
Top Schools
Hampton High School, Phoebus High School, Bethel High School
South County High School, Hayfield Secondary School, Lorton Station Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Hampton is closer to downtown at ~25 minutes vs ~30 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Hampton (I-64, I-664, Rt 258), Lorton (I-95, Rt 1, Lorton Rd).
Hampton
VA
Lorton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~25 min
~30 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-64, I-664, Rt 258
I-95, Rt 1, Lorton Rd
Commuter Rail
None
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
Safety
Lorton is rated "Safe" with a total crime rate 33% below Virginia average. Hampton is rated "Below Average" (42% above Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to broader regional trends. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.
Hampton
VA
Lorton
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
3.8/1K
0.8/1K
Property Crime
20.2/1K
10.5/1K
vs Virginia Avg
42% above Virginia average
33% below Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hampton or Lorton more affordable?
Hampton is more affordable with a median home price of $255K, compared to $610K in Lorton. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Hampton prices range from $80K–$650K. Lorton prices range from $250K–$1.2M.
Which has better schools, Hampton or Lorton?
Lorton has stronger schools overall, with a 81% average pass rate compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Hampton include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. In Lorton, standout schools include South County High School and Hayfield Secondary School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Hampton or Lorton?
Hampton has the shorter commute to downtown at ~25 minutes vs ~30 minutes. Hampton has no direct Metro access. Lorton has no direct Metro access.
Is Hampton or Lorton better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Hampton is a historic waterfront city on the Chesapeake Bay, home to Langley Air Force Base, NASA Langley Research Center, and Hampton University. Lorton is a revitalized community in southern Fairfax County, transformed by the Workhouse Arts Center and new residential development. 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.