City Comparison

Lorton vs Silver Spring: Which is right for your family?

Lorton is a revitalized community in southern Fairfax County, transformed by the Workhouse Arts Center and new residential development. Silver Spring is a diverse, transit-rich community just north of the D. Both are strong options, but the details matter. Here is how they compare across price, schools, commute, taxes, walkability, and safety.

Market Overview

Lorton is pricier ($610K median vs $510K), a difference of about $100K. Lorton moves faster, with homes averaging 15 days on market compared to 16 in Silver Spring. Silver Spring offers a lower entry point at $175K–$1.5M.

Lorton

VA

Silver Spring

MD

Median Price

$610K

$510K

Avg Days on Market

15 days

16 days

Price Range

$250K–$1.2M

$175K–$1.5M

Top Neighborhoods

Lorton Station, Laurel Hill, Gunston, Newington

Downtown Silver Spring, Woodside, East Silver Spring, Woodmoor

VA

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MD

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Related Comparisons

See how other nearby cities stack up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lorton or Silver Spring more affordable?

Silver Spring is more affordable with a median home price of $510K, compared to $610K in Lorton. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Lorton prices range from $250K–$1.2M. Silver Spring prices range from $175K–$1.5M.

Is Lorton or Silver Spring better for families?

Both cities are popular with families. Lorton is a revitalized community in southern Fairfax County, transformed by the Workhouse Arts Center and new residential development. Silver Spring is a diverse, transit-rich community just north 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.