Market Overview
Manassas is pricier ($568K median vs $255K), a difference of about $313K. Manassas moves faster, with homes averaging 22 days on market compared to 25 in Hampton. Hampton offers a lower entry point at $80K–$650K.
Hampton
VA
Manassas
VA
Median Price
$255K
$568K
Avg Days on Market
25 days
22 days
Price Range
$80K–$650K
$60K–$1.9M
Top Neighborhoods
Phoebus, Buckroe Beach, Fox Hill, Wythe
Old Town Manassas, Georgetown South, Signal Hill, Sudley
Schools
Manassas leads on school quality with a 72% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Hampton include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. In Manassas, families look to Osbourn High School and Metz Middle School. See Hampton schools | See Manassas schools
Hampton
VA
Manassas
VA
Quality Tier
Average
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
65%
72%
Top Schools
Hampton High School, Phoebus High School, Bethel High School
Osbourn High School, Metz Middle School, Round Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Hampton is closer to downtown at ~25 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Hampton (I-64, I-664, Rt 258), Manassas (I-66, Rt 28, Rt 234).
Hampton
VA
Manassas
VA
Drive to Downtown
~25 min
~45 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-64, I-664, Rt 258
I-66, Rt 28, Rt 234
Commuter Rail
None
VRE (Manassas line)
Safety
Manassas is rated "Average" with a total crime rate 7% above 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
Manassas
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
3.8/1K
1.8/1K
Property Crime
20.2/1K
16.2/1K
vs Virginia Avg
42% above Virginia average
7% above Virginia average
VA
Find agents in Hampton
Browse verified agents with real sales data in Hampton.
View top agentsVA
Find agents in Manassas
Browse verified agents with real sales data in Manassas.
View top agentsRelated Comparisons
See how other nearby cities stack up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hampton or Manassas more affordable?
Hampton is more affordable with a median home price of $255K, compared to $568K in Manassas. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Hampton prices range from $80K–$650K. Manassas prices range from $60K–$1.9M.
Which has better schools, Hampton or Manassas?
Manassas has stronger schools overall, with a 72% average pass rate compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Hampton include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. In Manassas, standout schools include Osbourn High School and Metz Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Hampton or Manassas?
Hampton has the shorter commute to downtown at ~25 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Hampton has no direct Metro access. Manassas has no direct Metro access.
Is Hampton or Manassas 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. Manassas is a charming independent city with a revitalized downtown, diverse dining, and proximity to the Civil War battlefield. 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.