Market Overview
Stafford is pricier ($560K median vs $370K), a difference of about $190K. Suffolk moves faster, with homes averaging 24 days on market compared to 27 in Stafford. Suffolk offers a lower entry point at $175K–$800K.
Stafford
VA
Suffolk
VA
Median Price
$560K
$370K
Avg Days on Market
27 days
24 days
Price Range
$108K–$1.3M
$175K–$800K
Top Neighborhoods
Aquia Harbour, Stafford Lakes, Embrey Mill, Winding Creek
Harbour View, Bennetts Creek, Godwin Boulevard, Riverfront
Schools
Stafford leads on school quality with a 77% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 72% in Suffolk. Top schools in Stafford include North Stafford High School and Mountain View High School. In Suffolk, families look to Nansemond River High School and King's Fork High School. See Stafford schools | See Suffolk schools
Stafford
VA
Suffolk
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
77%
72%
Top Schools
North Stafford High School, Mountain View High School, Stafford High School
Nansemond River High School, King's Fork High School, Lakeland High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Suffolk is closer to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~55 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Stafford (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 610), Suffolk (Rt 58, Rt 13, Rt 460).
Stafford
VA
Suffolk
VA
Drive to Downtown
~55 min
~30 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 610
Rt 58, Rt 13, Rt 460, I-664
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stafford or Suffolk more affordable?
Suffolk is more affordable with a median home price of $370K, compared to $560K in Stafford. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Stafford prices range from $108K–$1.3M. Suffolk prices range from $175K–$800K.
Which has better schools, Stafford or Suffolk?
Stafford has stronger schools overall, with a 77% average pass rate compared to 72% in Suffolk. Top schools in Stafford include North Stafford High School and Mountain View High School. In Suffolk, standout schools include Nansemond River High School and King's Fork High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Stafford or Suffolk?
Suffolk has the shorter commute to downtown at ~30 minutes vs ~55 minutes. Stafford has no direct Metro access. Suffolk has no direct Metro access.
Is Stafford or Suffolk better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Stafford County offers affordable homes and a growing community south of the D. Suffolk is the largest city by area in Virginia, offering a mix of new construction communities and rural charm. 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.