Market Overview
McLean is pricier ($1.4M median vs $355K), a difference of about $1.0M. Both cities average 18 days on market. Richmond offers a lower entry point at $125K–$1.5M.
McLean
VA
Richmond
VA
Median Price
$1.4M
$355K
Avg Days on Market
18 days
18 days
Price Range
$700K–$5M+
$125K–$1.5M
Top Neighborhoods
Langley Farms, Chain Bridge Forest, Broyhill Langley Estates, McLean Hamlet
The Fan, Carytown, Church Hill, Scott's Addition
Walkability
Richmond is more walkable with a Walk Score of 50 (Somewhat Walkable), compared to 28 in McLean. Transit scores: McLean (22) vs Richmond (28). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Langley Farms and The Fan score much higher than suburban areas.
McLean
VA
Richmond
VA
Walk Score
Transit Score
22
28
Bike Score
32
52
Safety
McLean is rated "Very Safe" with a total crime rate 60% below 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.
McLean
VA
Richmond
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
0.3/1K
5.8/1K
Property Crime
6.5/1K
25.2/1K
vs Virginia Avg
60% below Virginia average
83% above Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is McLean or Richmond more affordable?
Richmond is more affordable with a median home price of $355K, 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+. Richmond prices range from $125K–$1.5M.
Is McLean or Richmond better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. McLean is synonymous with luxury living in Northern Virginia. 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.