City Comparison

McLean vs Williamsburg: Which is right for your family?

McLean is synonymous with luxury living in Northern Virginia. Williamsburg blends colonial history with modern living. Both are strong options, but the details matter. Here is how they compare across price, schools, commute, taxes, walkability, and safety.

Market Overview

McLean is pricier ($1.4M median vs $370K), a difference of about $1.0M. McLean moves faster, with homes averaging 18 days on market compared to 28 in Williamsburg. Williamsburg offers a lower entry point at $150K–$1.5M.

McLean

VA

Williamsburg

VA

Median Price

$1.4M

$370K

Avg Days on Market

18 days

28 days

Price Range

$700K–$5M+

$150K–$1.5M

Top Neighborhoods

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

Colonial Williamsburg, Kingsmill, New Town, Ford's Colony

Walkability

Williamsburg is more walkable with a Walk Score of 35 (Car-Dependent), compared to 28 in McLean. Transit scores: McLean (22) vs Williamsburg (10). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Langley Farms and Colonial Williamsburg score much higher than suburban areas.

McLean

VA

Williamsburg

VA

Walk Score

28Car-Dependent
35Car-Dependent

Transit Score

22

10

Bike Score

32

42

Safety

McLean is rated "Very Safe" with a total crime rate 60% below Virginia average. Williamsburg is rated "Average" (Near Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to the Virginia state average. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.

McLean

VA

Williamsburg

VA

Safety Rating

Very Safe
Average

Violent Crime

0.3/1K

1.2/1K

Property Crime

6.5/1K

15.2/1K

vs Virginia Avg

60% below Virginia average

Near Virginia average

VA

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VA

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is McLean or Williamsburg more affordable?

Williamsburg is more affordable with a median home price of $370K, 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+. Williamsburg prices range from $150K–$1.5M.

Is McLean or Williamsburg better for families?

Both cities are popular with families. McLean is synonymous with luxury living in Northern Virginia. Williamsburg blends colonial history with modern living. 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.