Market Overview
Manassas is pricier ($568K median vs $355K), a difference of about $213K. Richmond moves faster, with homes averaging 18 days on market compared to 22 in Manassas. Richmond offers a lower entry point at $125K–$1.5M.
Manassas
VA
Richmond
VA
Median Price
$568K
$355K
Avg Days on Market
22 days
18 days
Price Range
$60K–$1.9M
$125K–$1.5M
Top Neighborhoods
Old Town Manassas, Georgetown South, Signal Hill, Sudley
The Fan, Carytown, Church Hill, Scott's Addition
Schools
Manassas leads on school quality with a 72% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 67% in Richmond. Top schools in Manassas include Osbourn High School and Metz Middle School. In Richmond, families look to Maggie L. Walker Governor's School and Open High School. See Manassas schools | See Richmond schools
Manassas
VA
Richmond
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Average
Avg Pass Rate
72%
67%
Top Schools
Osbourn High School, Metz Middle School, Round Elementary
Maggie L. Walker Governor's School, Open High School, Thomas Jefferson High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Richmond is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Manassas (I-66, Rt 28, Rt 234), Richmond (I-95, I-64, I-195).
Manassas
VA
Richmond
VA
Drive to Downtown
~45 min
~10 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-66, Rt 28, Rt 234
I-95, I-64, I-195, Rt 1, Rt 301
Commuter Rail
VRE (Manassas line)
None
Walkability
Richmond is more walkable with a Walk Score of 50 (Somewhat Walkable), compared to 38 in Manassas. Transit scores: Manassas (15) vs Richmond (28). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Old Town Manassas and The Fan score much higher than suburban areas.
Manassas
VA
Richmond
VA
Walk Score
Transit Score
15
28
Bike Score
35
52
Safety
Manassas is rated "Average" with a total crime rate 7% above Virginia average. Richmond is rated "Below Average" (83% above Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to broader regional trends. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.
Manassas
VA
Richmond
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
1.8/1K
5.8/1K
Property Crime
16.2/1K
25.2/1K
vs Virginia Avg
7% above Virginia average
83% above Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Manassas or Richmond more affordable?
Richmond is more affordable with a median home price of $355K, compared to $568K in Manassas. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Manassas prices range from $60K–$1.9M. Richmond prices range from $125K–$1.5M.
Which has better schools, Manassas or Richmond?
Manassas has stronger schools overall, with a 72% average pass rate compared to 67% in Richmond. Top schools in Manassas include Osbourn High School and Metz Middle School. In Richmond, standout schools include Maggie L. Walker Governor's School and Open High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Manassas or Richmond?
Richmond has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Manassas has no direct Metro access. Richmond has no direct Metro access.
Is Manassas or Richmond better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Manassas is a charming independent city with a revitalized downtown, diverse dining, and proximity to the Civil War battlefield. Richmond is Virginia's capital and a city experiencing a major renaissance. 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.