Let the numbers do the talking.
McLean, VA vs Richmond, VA
McLean, VA vs Richmond, VA: What the data shows
McLean, VA is in McLean, VA while Richmond, VA is in Richmond, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Richmond, VA is the more affordable option at $217,900 median — $1,023,600 less than McLean, VA's $1,241,500. WYLT rates McLean, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Richmond, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
McLean, VA has the stronger safety profile of the two. McLean, VA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Richmond, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, McLean, VA has Low flood risk and Richmond, VA has Low flood risk.
McLean, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. McLean, VA scores 51/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Richmond, VA's 17/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, McLean, VA has the higher school rating — McLean, VA rates 8.6/10 and Richmond, VA rates 7.6/10.
| Category | McLean, VA | Richmond, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.24M | $218K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $250K ✓ Higher income | $61K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 51/100 ✓ More walkable | 17/100 |
| Transit Score | 35/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 18 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.6/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.6/10 |
| Best for | Affluent familiesRemote workers with good broadbandParents prioritizing high school quality | FamiliesFirst-time homebuyersThose prioritizing affordability |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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