Market Overview
Lorton is pricier ($610K median vs $370K), a difference of about $240K. Lorton moves faster, with homes averaging 15 days on market compared to 24 in Suffolk. Suffolk offers a lower entry point at $175K–$800K.
Lorton
VA
Suffolk
VA
Median Price
$610K
$370K
Avg Days on Market
15 days
24 days
Price Range
$250K–$1.2M
$175K–$800K
Top Neighborhoods
Lorton Station, Laurel Hill, Gunston, Newington
Harbour View, Bennetts Creek, Godwin Boulevard, Riverfront
Schools
Lorton leads on school quality with a 81% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 72% in Suffolk. Top schools in Lorton include South County High School and Hayfield Secondary School. In Suffolk, families look to Nansemond River High School and King's Fork High School. See Lorton schools | See Suffolk schools
Lorton
VA
Suffolk
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
81%
72%
Top Schools
South County High School, Hayfield Secondary School, Lorton Station Elementary
Nansemond River High School, King's Fork High School, Lakeland High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Suffolk is closer to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~30 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Lorton (I-95, Rt 1, Lorton Rd), Suffolk (Rt 58, Rt 13, Rt 460).
Lorton
VA
Suffolk
VA
Drive to Downtown
~30 min
~30 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-95, Rt 1, Lorton Rd
Rt 58, Rt 13, Rt 460, I-664
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lorton or Suffolk more affordable?
Suffolk is more affordable with a median home price of $370K, 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. Suffolk prices range from $175K–$800K.
Which has better schools, Lorton or Suffolk?
Lorton has stronger schools overall, with a 81% average pass rate compared to 72% in Suffolk. Top schools in Lorton include South County High School and Hayfield Secondary School. In Suffolk, standout schools include Nansemond River High School and King's Fork High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Lorton or Suffolk?
Suffolk has the shorter commute to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~30 minutes. Lorton has no direct Metro access. Suffolk has no direct Metro access.
Is Lorton or Suffolk 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. Suffolk is the largest city by area in Virginia, offering a mix of new construction communities and rural charm. 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.