City Comparison

Newport News vs Reston: Which is right for your family?

Newport News stretches from the James River to the Chesapeake Bay, anchored by Newport News Shipbuilding, one of the nation's largest industrial employers. Reston is a planned community built around lakes, wooded trails, and town centers. Both are strong options, but the details matter. Here is how they compare across price, schools, commute, taxes, walkability, and safety.

Market Overview

Reston is pricier ($570K median vs $270K), a difference of about $300K. Reston moves faster, with homes averaging 14 days on market compared to 26 in Newport News. Newport News offers a lower entry point at $100K–$700K.

Newport News

VA

Reston

VA

Median Price

$270K

$570K

Avg Days on Market

26 days

14 days

Price Range

$100K–$700K

$250K–$1.5M

Top Neighborhoods

Hilton Village, Oyster Point, Denbigh, Kiln Creek

Lake Anne, North Point, South Lakes, Hunters Woods

VA

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VA

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Related Comparisons

See how other nearby cities stack up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Newport News or Reston more affordable?

Newport News is more affordable with a median home price of $270K, compared to $570K in Reston. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Newport News prices range from $100K–$700K. Reston prices range from $250K–$1.5M.

Is Newport News or Reston better for families?

Both cities are popular with families. Newport News stretches from the James River to the Chesapeake Bay, anchored by Newport News Shipbuilding, one of the nation's largest industrial employers. Reston is a planned community built around lakes, wooded trails, and town centers. 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.