City Comparison

Lorton vs Sterling: How they compare

Lorton is a revitalized community in southern Fairfax County, transformed by the Workhouse Arts Center and new residential development. Sterling is a fast-growing Loudoun County community near Dulles Airport. Both are strong options, but the details matter. Here is how they compare across price, schools, commute, taxes, walkability, and safety.

Market Overview

Lorton's median sold price is $710K with homes averaging 29 days on market; Sterling is at $615K and 27 days (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026). Lorton is pricier ($710K median vs $615K), a difference of about $95K. Sterling moves faster, with homes averaging 27 days on market compared to 29 in Lorton. Sterling offers a lower entry point at $180K–$1.5M.

Lorton

VA

Sterling

VA

Median Sold Price

12 months through Aug 2026

$710K

$615K

Avg Days on Market

12 months through Aug 2026

29 days

27 days

Price Range

$250K–$1.2M

$180K–$1.5M

Notable Neighborhoods

Lorton Station, Laurel Hill, Gunston, Newington

Cascades, Countryside, Sugarland Run, Lowes Island

VA

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Browse verified agents with real sales data in Lorton.

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VA

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lorton or Sterling more affordable?

Sterling is more affordable with a median sold price of $615K, compared to $710K in Lorton (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026). Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Lorton prices range from $250K–$1.2M. Sterling prices range from $180K–$1.5M.

How do Lorton and Sterling compare?

Lorton is a revitalized community in southern Fairfax County, transformed by the Workhouse Arts Center and new residential development. Sterling is a fast-growing Loudoun County community near Dulles Airport. The right choice depends on your priorities: budget, commute length, home types, and neighborhood feel. smover can connect you with a verified agent in either city.

Median sold prices and days on market are 12-month aggregates of settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026. 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 August 2026.

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Lorton vs Sterling: Median $710K vs $615K (2026) | smover