Market Overview
Severn is pricier ($430K median vs $250K), a difference of about $180K. Severn moves faster, with homes averaging 16 days on market compared to 28 in Portsmouth. Portsmouth offers a lower entry point at $75K–$550K.
Portsmouth
VA
Severn
MD
Median Price
$250K
$430K
Avg Days on Market
28 days
16 days
Price Range
$75K–$550K
$200K–$750K
Top Neighborhoods
Olde Towne, Churchland, Western Branch, Port Norfolk
Severn Run, Meade Village, Piney Orchard, Arundel Mills
Schools
Portsmouth has a 60% average SOL pass rate; Severn has 77% (2024 state assessment data). Public schools in Portsmouth include Churchland High School and I.C. Norcom High School; in Severn, Meade High School and Old Mill High School. See Portsmouth schools | See Severn schools
Portsmouth
VA
Severn
MD
Avg Pass Rate
60%
77%
Public schools
Churchland High School, I.C. Norcom High School, Cradock Middle School
Meade High School, Old Mill High School, Severn River Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Portsmouth is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~40 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Portsmouth (I-264, I-664, Rt 17), Severn (I-97, Rt 32, Rt 3).
Portsmouth
VA
Severn
MD
Drive to Downtown
~10 min
~40 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-264, I-664, Rt 17, Rt 58
I-97, Rt 32, Rt 3
Commuter Rail
None
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Portsmouth or Severn more affordable?
Portsmouth is more affordable with a median home price of $250K, compared to $430K in Severn. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Portsmouth prices range from $75K–$550K. Severn prices range from $200K–$750K.
What are the public-school pass rates in Portsmouth and Severn?
Portsmouth public schools have a 60% average SOL pass rate; Severn has 77% (2024 state assessment data). Public schools in Portsmouth include Churchland High School and I.C. Norcom High School; in Severn, Meade High School and Old Mill High School. Pass rates reflect district-wide assessment results; check the specific assigned schools for any address.
Which is easier to commute from, Portsmouth or Severn?
Portsmouth has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~40 minutes. Portsmouth has no direct Metro access. Severn has no direct Metro access.
How do Portsmouth and Severn compare?
Portsmouth is a waterfront city across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk, with a rich naval heritage and a revitalizing downtown. Severn is a growing community in Anne Arundel County, conveniently located near Fort Meade and the NSA. 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.
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 June 2026.