Let the numbers do the talking.
Arlington, VA vs Chesapeake, VA
Arlington, VA vs Chesapeake, VA: What the data shows
Arlington, VA is in Arlington, VA while Chesapeake, VA is in Chesapeake, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Chesapeake, VA is the more affordable option at $312,300 median — $436,700 less than Arlington, VA's $749,000. WYLT rates Arlington, VA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Chesapeake, VA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Arlington, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Chesapeake, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Arlington, VA has Low flood risk and Chesapeake, VA has Low flood risk.
Arlington, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Arlington, VA scores 85/100 (very walkable) versus Chesapeake, VA's 39/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Chesapeake, VA has the higher school rating — Arlington, VA rates 8.5/10 and Chesapeake, VA rates 8.6/10.
| Category | Arlington, VA | Chesapeake, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $749K | $312K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $140K ✓ Higher income | $82K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 85/100 ✓ More walkable | 39/100 |
| Transit Score | 59/100 ✓ Better transit | 2/100 |
| Bike Score | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 9 min ✓ Shorter commute | 40 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.5/10 | 8.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | young professionalscommuters to DCsmall families | Families with school‑focused kidsFirst‑time home buyersSuburban commuters |
Bottom line
For young professionals, commuters to DC, or families seeking a more urban lifestyle, Arlington is the clear winner, offering a desirable balance of walkability, transit options, and top-rated schools. For families prioritizing affordability, solid schools, and a safe environment, Chesapeake is a more accessible option, although it comes with the trade-off of being less walkable and farther from major job centers.
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