City Comparison

McLean vs Silver Spring: How they compare

McLean is synonymous with luxury living in Northern Virginia. Silver Spring is a diverse, transit-rich community just north of the D. Both are strong options, but the details matter. Here is how they compare across price, schools, commute, taxes, walkability, and safety.

Market Overview

McLean's median sold price is $1.4M with homes averaging 41 days on market; Silver Spring is at $540K and 35 days (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026). McLean is pricier ($1.4M median vs $540K), a difference of about $810K. Silver Spring moves faster, with homes averaging 35 days on market compared to 41 in McLean. Silver Spring offers a lower entry point at $175K–$1.5M.

McLean

VA

Silver Spring

MD

Median Sold Price

12 months through Aug 2026

$1.4M

$540K

Avg Days on Market

12 months through Aug 2026

41 days

35 days

Price Range

$700K–$5M+

$175K–$1.5M

Notable Neighborhoods

Langley Farms, Chain Bridge Forest, Broyhill Langley Estates, McLean Hamlet

Downtown Silver Spring, Woodside, East Silver Spring, Woodmoor

VA

Find agents in McLean

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MD

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is McLean or Silver Spring more affordable?

Silver Spring is more affordable with a median sold price of $540K, compared to $1.4M in McLean (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026). Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. McLean prices range from $700K–$5M+. Silver Spring prices range from $175K–$1.5M.

How do McLean and Silver Spring compare?

McLean is synonymous with luxury living in Northern Virginia. Silver Spring is a diverse, transit-rich community just north of the D. The right choice depends on your priorities: budget, commute length, home types, and neighborhood feel. smover can connect you with a verified agent in either city.

Median sold prices and days on market are 12-month aggregates of settled sales in smover's records, through Aug 2026. 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 August 2026.

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McLean vs Silver Spring: $1.4M vs $540K (2026) | smover