Market Overview
Reston is pricier ($570K median vs $430K), a difference of about $140K. Reston moves faster, with homes averaging 14 days on market compared to 16 in Severn. Severn offers a lower entry point at $200K–$750K.
Reston
VA
Severn
MD
Median Price
$570K
$430K
Avg Days on Market
14 days
16 days
Price Range
$250K–$1.5M
$200K–$750K
Top Neighborhoods
Lake Anne, North Point, South Lakes, Hunters Woods
Severn Run, Meade Village, Piney Orchard, Arundel Mills
Schools
Reston leads on school quality with a 83% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 77% in Severn. Top schools in Reston include South Lakes High School and Langston Hughes Middle School. In Severn, families look to Meade High School and Old Mill High School. See Reston schools | See Severn schools
Reston
VA
Severn
MD
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
83%
77%
Top Schools
South Lakes High School, Langston Hughes Middle School, Terraset Elementary
Meade High School, Old Mill High School, Severn River Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Reston is closer to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~40 minutes. Reston has 2 Metro stations, including Reston Town Center on the Silver line. Major highway access: Reston (Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 267), Severn (I-97, Rt 32, Rt 3).
Reston
VA
Severn
MD
Drive to Downtown
~30 min
~40 min
Metro Stations
2 Metro stations (nearest: Reston Town Center)
No Metro access
Metro Lines
Silver
N/A
Major Highways
Dulles Toll Road, Rt 7, Rt 267
I-97, Rt 32, Rt 3
Commuter Rail
None
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Reston or Severn more affordable?
Severn is more affordable with a median home price of $430K, compared to $570K in Reston. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Reston prices range from $250K–$1.5M. Severn prices range from $200K–$750K.
Which has better schools, Reston or Severn?
Reston has stronger schools overall, with a 83% average pass rate compared to 77% in Severn. Top schools in Reston include South Lakes High School and Langston Hughes Middle School. In Severn, standout schools include Meade High School and Old Mill High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Reston or Severn?
Reston has the shorter commute to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~40 minutes. Reston has Metro access (Reston Town Center). Severn has no direct Metro access.
Is Reston or Severn better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Reston is a planned community built around lakes, wooded trails, and town centers. Severn is a growing community in Anne Arundel County, conveniently located near Fort Meade and the NSA. 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.