Market Overview
McLean is pricier ($1.4M median vs $250K), a difference of about $1.1M. McLean moves faster, with homes averaging 18 days on market compared to 28 in Portsmouth. Portsmouth offers a lower entry point at $75K–$550K.
McLean
VA
Portsmouth
VA
Median Price
$1.4M
$250K
Avg Days on Market
18 days
28 days
Price Range
$700K–$5M+
$75K–$550K
Notable Neighborhoods
Langley Farms, Chain Bridge Forest, Broyhill Langley Estates, McLean Hamlet
Olde Towne, Churchland, Western Branch, Port Norfolk
VA
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Related Comparisons
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is McLean or Portsmouth more affordable?
Portsmouth is more affordable with a median home price of $250K, compared to $1.4M in McLean. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. McLean prices range from $700K–$5M+. Portsmouth prices range from $75K–$550K.
How do McLean and Portsmouth compare?
McLean is synonymous with luxury living in Northern Virginia. Portsmouth is a waterfront city across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk, with a rich naval heritage and a revitalizing downtown. The right choice depends on your priorities: budget, commute length, home types, and neighborhood feel. smover lets you compare agent profiles and available transaction records in either city.
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 September 2026.