Arlington, VA vs Virginia Beach, VA
Side-by-side rent vs. buy comparison using 2026 market data — home prices, rents, price-to-rent ratios, and more.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Metric | Arlington, VA | Virginia Beach, VA | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $790K | $395K | Virginia Beach — More Affordable |
| Average Rent | $3,950/mo | $1,975/mo | Virginia Beach — Lower Rent |
| Price-to-Rent Ratio | 16.7× | 16.7× | — |
| Median List Price | $650K | $410K | Virginia Beach — Lower List Price |
| Price per Sq Ft | $474/sqft | $230/sqft | Virginia Beach — Lower Cost/SqFt |
| Days on Market | 43 days | 31 days | Arlington — Hotter Market |
Market Context
Navigating the housing market in Virginia Beach, an independent city with a unique coastal economy, presents a distinct set of considerations for prospective homeowners and renters. With a median home value hovering around $400,000, the market reflects a blend of demand driven by its military presence, tourism, and growing private sector. While recent trends show some fluctuation, with values either slightly up or down depending on the reporting source, the overall picture suggests a stable, albeit competitive, environment. Buyers should be prepared for a market where properties, particularly in desirable areas like Linkhorn Park or Great Neck, can move quickly.
Full Virginia Beach analysis →Frequently Asked Questions
Arlington has a median home price of $790K and average rent of $3,950/mo, while Virginia Beach has a median home price of $395K and average rent of $1,975/mo.
Arlington has a price-to-rent ratio of 16.7×. The market is roughly neutral between renting and buying.
Virginia Beach has a price-to-rent ratio of 16.7×. The market is roughly neutral between renting and buying.