Market Overview
Reston is pricier ($570K median vs $300K), a difference of about $270K. Reston moves faster, with homes averaging 14 days on market compared to 24 in Harrisonburg. Harrisonburg offers a lower entry point at $150K–$600K.
Harrisonburg
VA
Reston
VA
Median Price
$300K
$570K
Avg Days on Market
24 days
14 days
Price Range
$150K–$600K
$250K–$1.5M
Top Neighborhoods
Downtown, Old Town, Massanetta Springs, Stone Spring
Lake Anne, North Point, South Lakes, Hunters Woods
Schools
Reston leads on school quality with a 83% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 74% in Harrisonburg. Top schools in Harrisonburg include Harrisonburg High School and Thomas Harrison Middle School. In Reston, families look to South Lakes High School and Langston Hughes Middle School. See Harrisonburg schools | See Reston schools
Harrisonburg
VA
Reston
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
74%
83%
Top Schools
Harrisonburg High School, Thomas Harrison Middle School, Skyline Middle School
South Lakes High School, Langston Hughes Middle School, Terraset Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Harrisonburg is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~30 minutes. Reston has 2 Metro stations, including Reston Town Center on the Silver line. Major highway access: Harrisonburg (I-81, Rt 33, Rt 11), Reston (Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 267).
Harrisonburg
VA
Reston
VA
Drive to Downtown
~10 min
~30 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
2 Metro stations (nearest: Reston Town Center)
Metro Lines
N/A
Silver
Major Highways
I-81, Rt 33, Rt 11, Rt 42
Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 267
Commuter Rail
None
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Harrisonburg or Reston more affordable?
Harrisonburg is more affordable with a median home price of $300K, compared to $570K in Reston. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Harrisonburg prices range from $150K–$600K. Reston prices range from $250K–$1.5M.
Which has better schools, Harrisonburg or Reston?
Reston has stronger schools overall, with a 83% average pass rate compared to 74% in Harrisonburg. Top schools in Harrisonburg include Harrisonburg High School and Thomas Harrison Middle School. In Reston, standout schools include South Lakes High School and Langston Hughes Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Harrisonburg or Reston?
Harrisonburg has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~30 minutes. Harrisonburg has no direct Metro access. Reston has Metro access (Reston Town Center).
Is Harrisonburg or Reston better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Harrisonburg is a vibrant college city in the Shenandoah Valley, home to James Madison University. Reston is a planned community built around lakes, wooded trails, and town centers. 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.