How much does it cost to buy in Arlington?

Condos typically fall between the $400Ks and $800Ks, though luxury units can top $1M. Single-family homes are often $1.5M or more, especially in Clarendon and Lyon Village. Buyers pay a premium for walkability, Metro access, and close proximity to D.C.

How long is the commute into D.C. from Arlington?

Depending on where you live, D.C. can be as close as a 10-minute drive or Metro ride. Many neighborhoods have Metro stations that connect directly to downtown, the Pentagon, and National Airport. Bike share and walking paths also make commuting flexible.

What makes Arlington appealing to young professionals?

Neighborhoods like Clarendon and Ballston are packed with restaurants, bars, gyms, and Metro access. The nightlife and walkability are big draws for younger buyers and renters. Many also work in D.C., making Arlington a convenient and lively home base.

Is Arlington good for families too?

Yes, Arlington blends family-friendly neighborhoods with urban convenience. Areas like Lyon Village, Aurora Highlands, and Bluemont offer parks, good schools, and quieter streets. Families appreciate being close to both D.C. jobs and local amenities.

What job opportunities are near Arlington?

The Amazon HQ2 in National Landing has brought thousands of jobs to Arlington. The Pentagon, federal agencies, and major contractors like Boeing and Northrop Grumman also provide steady employment. Many residents also work on Capitol Hill or in nearby D.C. firms.

Arlington consistently ranks as one of the safest urban counties in the U.S. Crime rates are lower than many comparable cities, and police presence is strong. Safety levels vary by neighborhood, but overall buyers feel comfortable raising families or living here long-term.

Arlington, VA Real Estate | Colgan Team Real Estate

Q: What types of homes can you find in Arlington?

Arlington has everything from high-rise condos in neighborhoods like Ballston and Clarendon to million-dollar single-family homes. Condos can start in the $400Ks and go into the millions, while detached homes often range from $1.5M to $3M. Buyers can choose between walkable condo living or established suburban blocks with larger lots.

Q: What schools serve Arlington?

Arlington Public Schools are highly rated and well-funded. Families often look at Yorktown High, Washington-Liberty High, and Wakefield, with several strong elementary and middle schools feeding into them. Private schools and charter programs also add extra options.

Q: What are the main things to do in Arlington?

Arlington has shopping at Pentagon City, nightlife in Clarendon, and trails along the Potomac. Theodore Roosevelt Island and local parks give a nature break right near the city. On weekends, residents often head to D.C. museums or local concert venues.

Arlington Living

Thinking of moving to Arlington, Virginia, or selling your Arlington home? I'm Chris Colgan, a top-producing Realtor with the Chris Colgan Team at Real Broker LLC, and your guide to the Northern Virginia & DMV real estate market.

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The Real Story on Arlington, VA

Yes, it’s pricey: Average sales prices hover around $840k with single-families often over $1.4M. But there’s way more range here than people think, from $300k condos up to multimillion-dollar estates.
Neighborhood spreads: Buckingham condos can land in the $300s, Clarendon averages around the $600s, while Lyon Village pushes $1M+. You’ve got options depending on lifestyle and budget.
Competition is real: Well-priced homes in the right neighborhoods get 20+ offers. Inventory’s up a bit, but Arlington still moves fast. If it’s turnkey and modern, expect a crowd.

Why Arlington Ranks So High

National spotlight: In 2025, Colonial Village was ranked the #1 neighborhood in the U.S. for its historic vibe and walkability. Arlington itself sits at #4 overall.
Urban lifestyle: Clarendon is buzzing with bars, coffee shops, and Metro access. Ballston is dense and tech-driven, while Pentagon City brings shopping and HQ2 jobs.
Family picks: Lyon Village and Arlington Heights offer tree-lined streets and historic homes, away from the nightlife.

Living the “15-Minute City”

Walk or bike: Groceries, coffee, gyms, and schools are within minutes in most neighborhoods. A lot of folks don’t even own a car here.
County planning: Ongoing investment in bike lanes, pedestrian safety, and green space. Expect active neighborhood associations and plenty of community signs about saving parks and trees.
D.C. access: Quick Metro ride or Uber into downtown, the Kennedy Center, or Nationals Park. It’s hard to beat for convenience.

Schools & Education

Top ranked: Arlington Public Schools sit at #2 in Virginia with a ~95% graduation rate and strong SAT scores (~1270 average).
Advanced degrees: Nearly 80% of residents hold a bachelor’s, with 43% having a graduate degree. It’s one of the most educated populations in the U.S.
Strong programs: Specialized career and college prep options, plus constant investment in facilities.

Cost of Living Reality

Higher than average: Overall costs are about 35% above the U.S. norm. Housing is the big driver, running over 100% higher than average.
Everyday expenses: Groceries are roughly 12% above national, healthcare about 15%, but utilities run a bit cheaper.
County initiatives: Affordable housing programs and partnerships, especially tied to Amazon, help balance things out.

Final Take

Arlington’s got a premium price tag, but you’re paying for walkability, top schools, strong planning, and proximity to D.C. If you’re serious about moving, email me at info@colganteam.com or text 571-437-7575. We’ll talk budget, map your commute, and zero in on the right neighborhood for your lifestyle.

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Arlington

Arlington, Virginia, has been called the happiest city in America, and once you spend some time here, it’s easy to see why. You’re minutes from Washington, D.C., surrounded by jobs, and still have neighborhoods that feel like their own community. With condos in Ballston, historic homes in Clarendon, and Amazon HQ2 bringing new energy to Crystal City, Arlington stays on the short list for a lot of buyers. If you’re thinking about making a move, let’s break down what life looks like here.

Arlington, VA Real Estate Statistics

Average Price	$966K
Lowest Price	$99.9K
Highest Price	$5.3M
Total Listings	675
Avg. Days On Market	49
Avg. Price/SQFT	$502

Property Types (active listings)

Theodore Roosevelt Island Walkway in Arlington, VA

Arlington Highlights

01
One of the closest Northern Virginia spots to D.C., with Metro access, bike share, and National Airport right down the road.
02
Condos in Clarendon or Ballston give younger buyers nightlife and walkability, while single-families in Lyon Village push $2M+.
03
The job market is insanely good. Amazon HQ2, the Pentagon, Capitol Hill, plus major federal contractors, all right here.
04
Tons of lifestyle perks with shopping at Pentagon City, parks along the Potomac, and bars, restaurants, and brunch spots everywhere.

About Arlington, VA

Arlington is one of the closest suburbs to D.C., and it feels almost like an extension of the city. It’s busy, it’s walkable, and it’s always in high demand.

D.C. proximity: Minutes from downtown with Metro, bike share, and National Airport right there.
Housing range: Condos starting around the $500Ks and single-families going $1.5–3M+.
Job powerhouse: Amazon HQ2, the Pentagon, Boeing, Nestlé, and federal contractors everywhere.
Neighborhood mix: Clarendon nightlife, Ballston condos, and historic single-family streets.
Active lifestyle: Trails, gyms, and parks all within walking distance.
Higher incomes: Median household income topping $130K+.

Amenities & Things to Do

Arlington packs a ton into a small footprint, from restaurants and shopping to outdoor escapes right on the Potomac.

Dining and bars: Clarendon Ballroom, Don Tito, Spider Kelly’s, and brunch spots all in walking range.
Shopping: Pentagon City Mall plus smaller local retail clusters.
Outdoor escapes: Theodore Roosevelt Island and Potomac riverfront trails.
Parks with views: Gravelly Point for picnics, soccer, and plane-watching.
Fitness options: Leagues, gyms, and bike paths used year-round.
D.C. access: Georgetown, museums, and monuments a few minutes away.

A mural in Mt. Vernon Trail in Arlington, VA

Arlington, VA Real Estate FAQs

What types of homes can you find in Arlington?

Arlington has a little bit of everything. You’ve got high-rise condos in places like Ballston and Clarendon, townhomes tucked into quieter streets, and million-dollar single-family homes just minutes from D.C. The price tag runs higher than most of Northern Virginia, but that’s because you’re paying for location, schools, and lifestyle.

How much does it cost to buy a home in Arlington?

Condos can start in the low $400Ks and stretch well into the $1M+ range depending on size and fees. Townhomes usually run $800K to $1.2M, and single-family homes are often $1.5M and up. Some of the larger custom builds can push into the $2–3M range, especially close to Clarendon or Lyon Village.

What schools serve Arlington?

Arlington Public Schools are consistently rated among the best in Virginia. Washington-Liberty, Yorktown, and Wakefield High all get strong marks, and there are plenty of magnet and specialty programs. A lot of families move here specifically for the schools, and being this close to D.C. makes the education system a big draw.

How long is the commute to D.C. or nearby job hubs?

Most Arlington neighborhoods are 5–15 minutes from downtown D.C. by car or Metro. The Orange and Blue lines run right through Ballston, Clarendon, and Rosslyn, so you can ditch the car if you want. Reagan National Airport is also less than 15 minutes away, which makes travel really easy.

What neighborhoods are most popular in Arlington?

Ballston and Clarendon are hotspots for younger buyers with all the restaurants and nightlife. Lyon Village and Ashton Heights pull in people looking for classic single-family homes with character. Crystal City and Pentagon City are booming with Amazon HQ2 and tons of new development. Each neighborhood has its own vibe depending on what you’re looking for.

Is Arlington good for families?

Yes, plenty of families choose Arlington. The schools are top notch, and there are parks, trails, and kid-friendly events all year long. Even in the denser areas, you’ll find playgrounds and green space tucked in. The balance of city life with suburban amenities is what makes Arlington such a strong family option.

What job opportunities are nearby?

Arlington is one of the strongest job markets in the country. You’ve got Amazon HQ2, defense contractors, lobbyists, and tons of tech jobs. The Pentagon and Capitol Hill are right across the river, so government work is everywhere. Median household income here is among the highest in the U.S., and that steady job base drives the housing market.

What are the main things to do in Arlington?

You’ve got nightlife in Clarendon, restaurants in Ballston, and shopping at Pentagon City. Parks like Theodore Roosevelt Island and Gravelly Point give you green space with monument views. On weekends, residents hit up local farmers markets, breweries, or bike the trails along the Potomac. You’re never short on things to do here.

Is Arlington a safe place to live?

Arlington is very safe compared to most urban areas this close to D.C. Neighborhoods are active, and the county invests heavily in community services. Of course, it depends on the block, like anywhere, but most people feel comfortable walking to Metro, parks, and restaurants. It’s one of the reasons Arlington keeps ranking as one of the best places to live.

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Arlington, VA Real Estate