Market Overview
Stafford is pricier ($560K median vs $500K), a difference of about $60K. Stafford moves faster, with homes averaging 27 days on market compared to 28 in Warrenton. Warrenton offers a lower entry point at $225K–$2M.
Stafford
VA
Warrenton
VA
Median Price
$560K
$500K
Avg Days on Market
27 days
28 days
Price Range
$108K–$1.3M
$225K–$2M
Top Neighborhoods
Aquia Harbour, Stafford Lakes, Embrey Mill, Winding Creek
Old Town Warrenton, Blackwell, Vint Hill, Rittenour
Schools
Warrenton leads on school quality with a 78% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 77% in Stafford. Top schools in Stafford include North Stafford High School and Mountain View High School. In Warrenton, families look to Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. See Stafford schools | See Warrenton schools
Stafford
VA
Warrenton
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
77%
78%
Top Schools
North Stafford High School, Mountain View High School, Stafford High School
Fauquier High School, Taylor Middle School, Brumfield Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Stafford is closer to downtown at ~55 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Stafford (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 610), Warrenton (Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211).
Stafford
VA
Warrenton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~55 min
~60 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 610
Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211, Rt 15/29
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
Walkability
Warrenton is more walkable with a Walk Score of 32 (Car-Dependent), compared to 15 in Stafford. Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Aquia Harbour and Old Town Warrenton score much higher than suburban areas.
Stafford
VA
Warrenton
VA
Walk Score
Bike Score
18
28
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stafford or Warrenton more affordable?
Warrenton is more affordable with a median home price of $500K, 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. Warrenton prices range from $225K–$2M.
Which has better schools, Stafford or Warrenton?
Warrenton has stronger schools overall, with a 78% average pass rate compared to 77% in Stafford. Top schools in Stafford include North Stafford High School and Mountain View 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, Stafford or Warrenton?
Stafford has the shorter commute to downtown at ~55 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Stafford has no direct Metro access. Warrenton has no direct Metro access.
Is Stafford or Warrenton better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Stafford County offers affordable homes and a growing community south of the D. 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.