Let the numbers do the talking.
Chesapeake, VA vs McLean, VA
Chesapeake, VA vs McLean, VA: What the data shows
Chesapeake, VA is in Chesapeake, VA while McLean, VA is in McLean, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Chesapeake, VA is the more affordable option at $312,300 median — $929,200 less than McLean, VA's $1,241,500. WYLT rates Chesapeake, VA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and McLean, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
McLean, VA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Chesapeake, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. McLean, VA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Chesapeake, VA has Low flood risk and McLean, VA has Low flood risk.
McLean, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Chesapeake, VA scores 39/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus McLean, VA's 51/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Chesapeake, VA rates 8.6/10 and McLean, VA rates 8.6/10.
| Category | Chesapeake, VA | McLean, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $312K ✓ Lower price | $1.24M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $82K | $250K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 39/100 | 51/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 2/100 | 35/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 40 min ✓ Shorter commute | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.6/10 | 8.6/10 |
| Best for | Families with school‑focused kidsFirst‑time home buyersSuburban commuters | Affluent familiesRemote workers with good broadbandParents prioritizing high school quality |
Bottom line
For families with school-focused kids, Chesapeake is the better choice due to its more affordable housing and similar school ratings. If money isn't a significant concern and you prioritize top-notch schools, McLean might be a good fit, but it's likely a stretch for many families. However, for those already financially set, McLean's safety and quiet atmosphere might outweigh the high cost of living.
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