Reston, VA vs Springfield, VA

Reston is moderately more affordable than Springfield, with a 8.8% lower cost of living index. Reston scores 155 compared to 170 for Springfield, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Springfield can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Reston is $2,170/month compared to $2,643/month in Springfield — a 18% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Reston is more affordable at $616,000 median vs $622,200.

Median household income in Reston is $139,515 compared to $123,691 in Springfield (+12.8%). Reston offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Reston spend roughly 18.7% of their income on rent, less than the 25.6% in Springfield.

Climate-wise, Springfield is notably warmer with an average of 59.3°F compared to 55.7°F in Reston. Reston receives more rainfall at 43.2" per year compared to 41.8" in Springfield.