Market Overview
Stafford is pricier ($560K median vs $255K), a difference of about $305K. Hampton moves faster, with homes averaging 25 days on market compared to 27 in Stafford. Hampton offers a lower entry point at $80K–$650K.
Hampton
VA
Stafford
VA
Median Price
$255K
$560K
Avg Days on Market
25 days
27 days
Price Range
$80K–$650K
$108K–$1.3M
Top Neighborhoods
Phoebus, Buckroe Beach, Fox Hill, Wythe
Aquia Harbour, Stafford Lakes, Embrey Mill, Winding Creek
Schools
Stafford leads on school quality with a 77% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Hampton include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. In Stafford, families look to North Stafford High School and Mountain View High School. See Hampton schools | See Stafford schools
Hampton
VA
Stafford
VA
Quality Tier
Average
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
65%
77%
Top Schools
Hampton High School, Phoebus High School, Bethel High School
North Stafford High School, Mountain View High School, Stafford High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Hampton is closer to downtown at ~25 minutes vs ~55 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Hampton (I-64, I-664, Rt 258), Stafford (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 610).
Hampton
VA
Stafford
VA
Drive to Downtown
~25 min
~55 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, Rt 610
Commuter Rail
None
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
Safety
Stafford is rated "Safe" with a total crime rate 31% 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
Stafford
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
3.8/1K
0.9/1K
Property Crime
20.2/1K
10.8/1K
vs Virginia Avg
42% above Virginia average
31% below Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hampton or Stafford more affordable?
Hampton is more affordable with a median home price of $255K, compared to $560K in Stafford. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Hampton prices range from $80K–$650K. Stafford prices range from $108K–$1.3M.
Which has better schools, Hampton or Stafford?
Stafford has stronger schools overall, with a 77% average pass rate compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Hampton include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. In Stafford, standout schools include North Stafford High School and Mountain View High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Hampton or Stafford?
Hampton has the shorter commute to downtown at ~25 minutes vs ~55 minutes. Hampton has no direct Metro access. Stafford has no direct Metro access.
Is Hampton or Stafford 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. Stafford County offers affordable homes and a growing community south of the D. 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.