Market Overview
Herndon is pricier ($710K median vs $250K), a difference of about $460K. Herndon moves faster, with homes averaging 23 days on market compared to 28 in Portsmouth. Portsmouth offers a lower entry point at $75K–$550K.
Herndon
VA
Portsmouth
VA
Median Price
$710K
$250K
Avg Days on Market
23 days
28 days
Price Range
$175K–$2.2M
$75K–$550K
Top Neighborhoods
Herndon Town Center, McNair Farms, Reflection Lake, West Ox Cluster
Olde Towne, Churchland, Western Branch, Port Norfolk
Schools
Herndon leads on school quality with a 80% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 60% in Portsmouth. Top schools in Herndon include Herndon High School and Rachel Carson Middle School. In Portsmouth, families look to Churchland High School and I.C. Norcom High School. See Herndon schools | See Portsmouth schools
Herndon
VA
Portsmouth
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Average
Avg Pass Rate
80%
60%
Top Schools
Herndon High School, Rachel Carson Middle School, Dranesville Elementary
Churchland High School, I.C. Norcom High School, Cradock Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Portsmouth is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~35 minutes. Herndon has 2 Metro stations, including Herndon on the Silver line. Major highway access: Herndon (Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 28), Portsmouth (I-264, I-664, Rt 17).
Herndon
VA
Portsmouth
VA
Drive to Downtown
~35 min
~10 min
Metro Stations
2 Metro stations (nearest: Herndon)
No Metro access
Metro Lines
Silver
N/A
Major Highways
Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 28
I-264, I-664, Rt 17, Rt 58
Commuter Rail
None
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Herndon or Portsmouth more affordable?
Portsmouth is more affordable with a median home price of $250K, compared to $710K in Herndon. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Herndon prices range from $175K–$2.2M. Portsmouth prices range from $75K–$550K.
Which has better schools, Herndon or Portsmouth?
Herndon has stronger schools overall, with a 80% average pass rate compared to 60% in Portsmouth. Top schools in Herndon include Herndon High School and Rachel Carson Middle School. In Portsmouth, standout schools include Churchland High School and I.C. Norcom High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Herndon or Portsmouth?
Portsmouth has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~35 minutes. Herndon has Metro access (Herndon). Portsmouth has no direct Metro access.
Is Herndon or Portsmouth better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Herndon is a walkable town near the Dulles technology corridor. Portsmouth is a waterfront city across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk, with a rich naval heritage and a revitalizing downtown. 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.