Market Overview
Lorton is pricier ($610K median vs $500K), a difference of about $110K. Lorton moves faster, with homes averaging 15 days on market compared to 28 in Warrenton. Warrenton offers a lower entry point at $225K–$2M.
Lorton
VA
Warrenton
VA
Median Price
$610K
$500K
Avg Days on Market
15 days
28 days
Price Range
$250K–$1.2M
$225K–$2M
Top Neighborhoods
Lorton Station, Laurel Hill, Gunston, Newington
Old Town Warrenton, Blackwell, Vint Hill, Rittenour
Schools
Lorton leads on school quality with a 81% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 78% in Warrenton. Top schools in Lorton include South County High School and Hayfield Secondary School. In Warrenton, families look to Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. See Lorton schools | See Warrenton schools
Lorton
VA
Warrenton
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
81%
78%
Top Schools
South County High School, Hayfield Secondary School, Lorton Station Elementary
Fauquier High School, Taylor Middle School, Brumfield Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Lorton is closer to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Lorton (I-95, Rt 1, Lorton Rd), Warrenton (Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211).
Lorton
VA
Warrenton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~30 min
~60 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-95, Rt 1, Lorton Rd
Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211, Rt 15/29
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
Walkability
Warrenton is more walkable with a Walk Score of 32 (Car-Dependent), compared to 18 in Lorton. Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Lorton Station and Old Town Warrenton score much higher than suburban areas.
Lorton
VA
Warrenton
VA
Walk Score
Bike Score
20
28
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lorton or Warrenton more affordable?
Warrenton is more affordable with a median home price of $500K, 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. Warrenton prices range from $225K–$2M.
Which has better schools, Lorton or Warrenton?
Lorton has stronger schools overall, with a 81% average pass rate compared to 78% in Warrenton. Top schools in Lorton include South County High School and Hayfield Secondary School. In Warrenton, standout schools include Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Lorton or Warrenton?
Lorton has the shorter commute to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Lorton has no direct Metro access. Warrenton has no direct Metro access.
Is Lorton or Warrenton 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. Warrenton is the county seat of Fauquier County, known for its equestrian culture, charming Old Town, and rolling countryside. 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.