Market Overview
Reston is pricier ($570K median vs $500K), a difference of about $70K. Reston moves faster, with homes averaging 14 days on market compared to 28 in Warrenton. Warrenton offers a lower entry point at $225K–$2M.
Reston
VA
Warrenton
VA
Median Price
$570K
$500K
Avg Days on Market
14 days
28 days
Price Range
$250K–$1.5M
$225K–$2M
Top Neighborhoods
Lake Anne, North Point, South Lakes, Hunters Woods
Old Town Warrenton, Blackwell, Vint Hill, Rittenour
Schools
Reston leads on school quality with a 83% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 78% in Warrenton. Top schools in Reston include South Lakes High School and Langston Hughes Middle School. In Warrenton, families look to Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. See Reston schools | See Warrenton schools
Reston
VA
Warrenton
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
83%
78%
Top Schools
South Lakes High School, Langston Hughes Middle School, Terraset Elementary
Fauquier High School, Taylor Middle School, Brumfield Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Reston is closer to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~60 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), Warrenton (Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211).
Reston
VA
Warrenton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~30 min
~60 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
Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211, Rt 15/29
Commuter Rail
None
None
Walkability
Reston is more walkable with a Walk Score of 45 (Car-Dependent), compared to 32 in Warrenton. Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Lake Anne and Old Town Warrenton score much higher than suburban areas.
Reston
VA
Warrenton
VA
Walk Score
Bike Score
52
28
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Reston or Warrenton more affordable?
Warrenton is more affordable with a median home price of $500K, 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. Warrenton prices range from $225K–$2M.
Which has better schools, Reston or Warrenton?
Reston has stronger schools overall, with a 83% average pass rate compared to 78% in Warrenton. Top schools in Reston include South Lakes High School and Langston Hughes Middle 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, Reston or Warrenton?
Reston has the shorter commute to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Reston has Metro access (Reston Town Center). Warrenton has no direct Metro access.
Is Reston or Warrenton better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Reston is a planned community built around lakes, wooded trails, and town centers. 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.