Market Overview
Warrenton is pricier ($500K median vs $280K), a difference of about $220K. Norfolk moves faster, with homes averaging 24 days on market compared to 28 in Warrenton. Norfolk offers a lower entry point at $100K–$1M.
Norfolk
VA
Warrenton
VA
Median Price
$280K
$500K
Avg Days on Market
24 days
28 days
Price Range
$100K–$1M
$225K–$2M
Top Neighborhoods
Ghent, Downtown Norfolk, West Ghent, Colonial Place
Old Town Warrenton, Blackwell, Vint Hill, Rittenour
Schools
Warrenton leads on school quality with a 78% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 65% in Norfolk. Top schools in Norfolk include Maury High School and Granby High School. In Warrenton, families look to Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. See Norfolk schools | See Warrenton schools
Norfolk
VA
Warrenton
VA
Quality Tier
Average
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
65%
78%
Top Schools
Maury High School, Granby High School, Norfolk Academy (private)
Fauquier High School, Taylor Middle School, Brumfield Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Norfolk is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Norfolk (I-264, I-64, I-564), Warrenton (Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211).
Norfolk
VA
Warrenton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~10 min
~60 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
Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211, Rt 15/29
Commuter Rail
None
None
Walkability
Norfolk is more walkable with a Walk Score of 42 (Car-Dependent), compared to 32 in Warrenton. Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Ghent and Old Town Warrenton score much higher than suburban areas.
Norfolk
VA
Warrenton
VA
Walk Score
Bike Score
48
28
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Norfolk or Warrenton more affordable?
Norfolk is more affordable with a median home price of $280K, compared to $500K in Warrenton. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Norfolk prices range from $100K–$1M. Warrenton prices range from $225K–$2M.
Which has better schools, Norfolk or Warrenton?
Warrenton has stronger schools overall, with a 78% average pass rate compared to 65% in Norfolk. Top schools in Norfolk include Maury High School and Granby High School. In Warrenton, standout schools include Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Norfolk or Warrenton?
Norfolk has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Norfolk has no direct Metro access. Warrenton has no direct Metro access.
Is Norfolk or Warrenton 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. Warrenton is the county seat of Fauquier County, known for its equestrian culture, charming Old Town, and rolling countryside. 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.