Market Overview
Stafford is pricier ($560K median vs $280K), a difference of about $280K. Norfolk moves faster, with homes averaging 24 days on market compared to 27 in Stafford. Norfolk offers a lower entry point at $100K–$1M.
Norfolk
VA
Stafford
VA
Median Price
$280K
$560K
Avg Days on Market
24 days
27 days
Price Range
$100K–$1M
$108K–$1.3M
Top Neighborhoods
Ghent, Downtown Norfolk, West Ghent, Colonial Place
Aquia Harbour, Stafford Lakes, Embrey Mill, Winding Creek
Schools
Stafford leads on school quality with a 77% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 65% in Norfolk. Top schools in Norfolk include Maury High School and Granby High School. In Stafford, families look to North Stafford High School and Mountain View High School. See Norfolk schools | See Stafford schools
Norfolk
VA
Stafford
VA
Quality Tier
Average
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
65%
77%
Top Schools
Maury High School, Granby High School, Norfolk Academy (private)
North Stafford High School, Mountain View High School, Stafford High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Norfolk is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~55 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Norfolk (I-264, I-64, I-564), Stafford (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 610).
Norfolk
VA
Stafford
VA
Drive to Downtown
~10 min
~55 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-264, I-64, I-564, Rt 13
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 610
Commuter Rail
None
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
Walkability
Norfolk is more walkable with a Walk Score of 42 (Car-Dependent), compared to 15 in Stafford. Transit scores: Norfolk (22) vs Stafford (8). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Ghent and Aquia Harbour score much higher than suburban areas.
Norfolk
VA
Stafford
VA
Walk Score
Transit Score
22
8
Bike Score
48
18
Safety
Stafford is rated "Safe" with a total crime rate 31% below Virginia average. Norfolk is rated "Below Average" (72% above Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to broader regional trends. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.
Norfolk
VA
Stafford
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
4.2/1K
0.9/1K
Property Crime
24.8/1K
10.8/1K
vs Virginia Avg
72% above Virginia average
31% below Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Norfolk or Stafford more affordable?
Norfolk is more affordable with a median home price of $280K, compared to $560K in Stafford. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Norfolk prices range from $100K–$1M. Stafford prices range from $108K–$1.3M.
Which has better schools, Norfolk or Stafford?
Stafford has stronger schools overall, with a 77% average pass rate compared to 65% in Norfolk. Top schools in Norfolk include Maury High School and Granby High School. In Stafford, standout schools include North Stafford High School and Mountain View High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Norfolk or Stafford?
Norfolk has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~55 minutes. Norfolk has no direct Metro access. Stafford has no direct Metro access.
Is Norfolk or Stafford better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Norfolk is the cultural hub of Hampton Roads, home to Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval base. Stafford County offers affordable homes and a growing community south of the D. 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.