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Arlington VA, Northern Virginia Real Estate, Relocation Guides, Neighborhood Profiles, Market TrendsPosted by Chris Colgan on Friday, May 16th, 2025 12:00pm.
A view of the Arlington, VA skyline across the Potomac River. Arlington’s urban core is just minutes from Washington, D.C., offering an appealing blend of city convenience and suburban comfort.
Are you considering relocating to Arlington, Virginia? This vibrant Northern Virginia community is a top choice for families and professionals alike. Arlington boasts an enviable location just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., coupled with a high quality of life, excellent schools, and a strong housing market. In this comprehensive guide, we provide an in-depth look at living in Arlington – from housing prices and market trends to the best Arlington neighborhoods, local amenities, things to do, and comparisons with nearby areas like Alexandria and Fairfax. Read on to learn why Arlington consistently ranks among America’s best places to live and how you can make the most of your move.
Arlington, VA is a dynamic urban county in Northern Virginia known for its unique mix of city and suburb. Home to around 236,000 residents in under 26 square miles, it is the fourth most populous locality in Virginia. Arlington’s location is unbeatable – it sits directly across the Potomac River from downtown Washington, D.C., only about a 15-minute drive or quick Metro ride away. This proximity means many Arlingtonians enjoy short commutes into the nation’s capital while returning home to a community with its own distinct character and charm.
Originally part of the area designated for the U.S. capital, Arlington today is famed for landmarks like the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery, underscoring its deep historical and military significance. Despite being classified as a county, Arlington has no incorporated cities or towns; instead, it’s composed of various urban and residential neighborhoods often referred to as “urban villages.” The community expertly blends modern urban lifestyle with a suburban feel, offering high-rise hubs as well as tree-lined residential streets.
Demographics and Atmosphere: Arlington’s population is highly educated and relatively young – the median age is 35, and an impressive 78% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher (with 43% having graduate degrees). Not surprisingly, Arlington consistently ranks among the most educated and best places to live in America. In fact, Niche recently rated Arlington the #4 “Best City to Live in America” for 2024 and 2025, giving it A scores for public schools, good for families, nightlife, and health & fitness. (The only downsides noted were the high housing costs, reflecting the competitive real estate market.) The community prides itself on being inclusive, safe, and civically engaged. Crime rates are low for a city of its size – the chance of being a crime victim is about 1 in 52, which is significantly lower than in most comparable cities. All these factors combine to create an environment that is family-friendly, professional, and vibrant.
Economy and Major Employers: Arlington’s economy is robust and diverse. It benefits from both federal government presence and a growing private sector. Major employers include the U.S. Department of Defense (at the Pentagon), federal agencies, corporate headquarters, and tech companies. The arrival of Amazon’s HQ2 in the Crystal City/Pentagon City area (rebranded as “National Landing”) has further cemented Arlington’s status as a booming job center, attracting thousands of tech and business professionals. With a strong job market (the average pay here is significantly higher than the national average at about $31/hour) and virtually no industry off-limits, Arlington offers plentiful career opportunities in government, defense contracting, IT, consulting, education, research, and more.
In summary, Arlington, VA offers an exceptional quality of life with its strategic location, educated populace, and mix of urban excitement and suburban comfort. Next, let’s dive into the housing market you’ll encounter when relocating to Arlington.
If you’re researching Arlington, VA homes for sale, it’s important to understand the local real estate landscape. Arlington’s housing market is known for being competitive, high-priced, and fast-moving, reflecting the high demand to live in this desirable area. Here’s an overview of housing prices and market trends in Arlington:
Housing Outlook: What can newcomers expect? In short, prepare for a competitive market. Work with a knowledgeable real estate agent (The Colgan Team, for example) to navigate the fast pace and maybe even get early tips on listings. Have your finances in order, as well-priced homes often receive multiple offers at or above asking. The good news is that investing in Arlington real estate has historically been a smart move – the combination of limited land, desirable location, and robust local economy provides a recipe for continued long-term value growth. Whether you seek a modern condo, a charming bungalow, or a luxury single-family home, Arlington’s market, while pricey, offers opportunities to find your ideal home with the right approach.
One of the great things about Arlington is its diverse array of neighborhoods, each with its own character and appeal. Whether you crave a lively urban scene, a quiet suburban atmosphere, or something in between, Arlington has a community for you. Here’s an overview of some of the best Arlington neighborhoods (often called “urban villages”) that newcomers often consider:
Modern high-rise buildings along Clarendon Blvd in Arlington’s Rosslyn-Ballston corridor reflect the urban appeal of neighborhoods like Courthouse, Clarendon, and Ballston. These areas offer walkable city living with shops, restaurants, and easy Metro access.
One reason Arlington ranks so highly in livability is its outstanding local amenities and quality of life. Residents enjoy the best of both worlds: immediate access to Washington, D.C.’s world-class cultural institutions, AND a bounty of community amenities right at home in Arlington. Here’s an overview of what makes daily life in Arlington comfortable and enriching:
Parks and Outdoor Spaces:
Arlington takes its parks seriously – and it shows. The county’s park system is consistently rated among the top in the nation. In 2024, Arlington was ranked #5 in the U.S. for park access and quality (and has been top-5 since 2018). An incredible 99% of Arlington residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, which speaks to the community’s thoughtful planning. There are over 150 parks ranging from small neighborhood playgrounds to large regional parks. Popular green spaces include Theodore Roosevelt Island (a natural oasis in the Potomac accessible from Rosslyn), Potomac Overlook Regional Park with nature trails, Long Bridge Park near Crystal City (sports fields and views of DC), and Glencarlyn Park in south Arlington (woods, picnic areas, and a dog park). Families love Lacey Woods Park and Bluemont Park for their facilities, and Lubber Run Park even has an amphitheater for free summer concerts. Arlington’s commitment to parks means you’re never far from a place to jog, bike, play sports, or relax outdoors. It also fosters a tight-knit community vibe – you’ll often find neighbors gathering for movies in the park, kids’ soccer games, or just chatting while walking dogs. If you enjoy an active lifestyle, you’ll feel right at home in Arlington, which has been called the “fittest city in America” in part due to its abundant outdoor recreation options.
Transportation and Commute:
Arlington offers excellent transportation infrastructure that makes getting around without a car quite feasible, a rarity in many American suburbs. The Washington Metro has multiple lines serving Arlington – the Orange and Silver Lines run through Rosslyn, Courthouse, Clarendon, Virginia Square and Ballston, while the Blue and Yellow Lines run through Pentagon City, Crystal City, and Reagan National Airport (with transfer points at Rosslyn and Pentagon). In total, there are about 11 Metro stations in Arlington County, ensuring most dense neighborhoods have a nearby station. Metro and the local bus system (ART and Metrobus) provide quick access into D.C. and throughout the region. Many residents commute via Metro or bike, avoiding the area’s infamous traffic jams.
For drivers, Arlington is crisscrossed by major routes like Interstate 66, I-395, U.S. Route 50, and the George Washington Memorial Parkway, which offer direct routes into the District or out to Virginia’s suburbs. During rush hour these roads are congested, but the actual distances are short – downtown D.C. is only 3–8 miles from most of Arlington. Arlington also promotes car-lite living through bike lanes and trails: the county is extremely bike-friendly, with trails such as the Mount Vernon Trail (along the Potomac), Custis Trail/W&OD Trail (an extensive rail-trail through Arlington and beyond), and many on-street bike routes. Capital Bikeshare stations dot the neighborhoods for easy bike rentals. Walkability is another strong suit – areas like Clarendon, Ballston, Crystal City, and Shirlington are very walkable, with grocery stores, cafes, and daily needs within steps. In summary, Arlington offers short and convenient commutes – a huge perk for professionals working in D.C. or nearby. You can trade a long suburban drive for a 15-minute train ride or even a quick bike commute, giving you more free time and less stress.
Shopping and Dining:
Arlington’s residents enjoy a wealth of shopping and dining options, from everyday conveniences to upscale experiences. For shopping, there are several hubs: Pentagon City’s Fashion Centre is a large indoor mall with national retailers. Ballston Quarter is a newly redeveloped mall with trendy shops and an open-air feel. Clarendon has a mix of national chains (Apple Store, Whole Foods, Crate & Barrel) and independent boutiques along its streets. Shirlington Village features smaller shops (bookstores, local art, pet boutiques) in a cozy setting. Additionally, being next to D.C. means Georgetown’s M Street shopping district is just across the river for even more options. Everyday needs are easily met – grocery stores, pharmacies, and services are plentiful (each neighborhood has its own cluster, and bigger stores like Target, Costco, and Harris Teeter are present in the county).
When it comes to dining, Arlington punches above its weight. There are 80 restaurants within a five-block radius in Ballston alone ranging from Belgian to Mexican, and that’s just one neighborhood. Clarendon is known for its brunch spots, rooftop bars, and a mix of international cuisine (Thai, Vietnamese, Italian, the famous Texas Jack’s BBQ). Crystal City and Pentagon City have a growing food scene including trendy eateries and craft beer halls catering to the new tech crowd. You can find everything from fine dining (steakhouses, seafood) to food trucks and authentic ethnic eateries, especially along the Columbia Pike corridor (which is Arlington’s “International Row” for Ethiopian, Afghan, Latin American, and more). Arlington’s diversity shines through its food. Some local favorites include Ambar (Balkan small plates) and Cava Mezze in Clarendon, Rus Uz (Russian/Uzbek cuisine) in Ballston, Green Pig Bistro and Liberty Tavern, and the Shake Shack in Pentagon City for casual bites. Whether you’re a foodie looking for the next hip restaurant or a family seeking kid-friendly dining, Arlington delivers myriad choices. Plus, if you somehow exhaust your options, the culinary delights of D.C.’s neighborhoods are a very short trip away.
Arts, Culture, and Entertainment:
Arlington might not be a large city, but it has a vibrant arts and culture scene. The Signature Theatre in Shirlington is a Tony Award-winning regional theater producing Broadway-quality musicals and plays in an intimate setting. Arlington also is home to the Synetic Theater (known for innovative physical theater) in Crystal City. For art lovers, the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington (formerly Arlington Arts Center) in Virginia Square showcases modern art exhibitions and hosts studios for local artists. The county sponsors public art installations, murals, and events (check out the annual Arlington Arts Festival each April). Live music can be enjoyed at various bars and the Rosslyn Jazz Fest every September, which draws big crowds and notable jazz acts. Arlington also celebrates its diversity with events like the Columbia Pike Blues Festival, and you’re just minutes from D.C.’s countless museums, theaters, and concert venues – meaning you’ll never run out of cultural activities.
For more casual entertainment, Arlington has a lively nightlife especially in Clarendon, which features popular bars and lounges. Spots like Spider Kelly’s (sports bar with games) and The Lot (beer garden) are go-to hangouts. In Ballston, you can catch a Washington Capitals hockey practice at the MedStar Iceplex or go bowling. Arlington also hosts fun seasonal events and festivals that bring the community together: for instance, Clarendon Day (an annual street festival each fall with music, food, and family fun), the Arlington County Fair in August (rides, carnival games, and food for all ages), and holiday events like neighborhood tree lightings. Being adjacent to the nation’s capital, Arlington also has the unique perk of front-row seats to events like the Cherry Blossom Festival and July 4th fireworks – many Arlington parks on the river have spectacular views without the D.C. crowds.
Healthcare:
Access to quality healthcare is an important factor for families and professionals. Arlington is served by the acclaimed Virginia Hospital Center (VHC Health), a 394-bed hospital recently affiliated with the Mayo Clinic network. VHC is regularly ranked as one of the best hospitals in the Washington metro area, offering comprehensive medical services, a Level II Trauma Center, and excellent maternity care (many D.C. families actually come to Arlington to give birth!). Additionally, Arlington has numerous clinics, urgent care centers, and specialists. For any advanced care needs, some of the nation’s top hospitals (Georgetown University Hospital, GW Hospital, Children’s National, etc.) are a short drive or Metro ride away in D.C. – but many residents find they can get all routine and specialty care right in Northern Virginia. The region is a hub for medical professionals, meaning you have plenty of choice for primary care, dental, pediatric, and veterinary services in every neighborhood.
Public Services and Community: Arlington County is known for its well-run public services. The public library system is excellent, with a central library in Virginia Square and branches like Shirlington and Westover that offer a range of community programming (storytimes, workshops, etc.). The parks department maintains not only parks but also community centers, dog parks, and recreational facilities. Arlington even has free outdoor Wi-Fi in certain public areas and initiatives for environmental sustainability (e.g., widespread recycling, bike share, and nature center programs). The sense of community is strong – each neighborhood often has civic associations that host events (like yard sales, block parties, holiday decorating contests). Neighbors are engaged and friendly, often bonding over school events or weekend farmers markets. Simply put, quality of life in Arlington is top-notch – residents enjoy a clean, green, and connected community with amenities that rival much larger cities.
When you’re not working or school is out, what is there to do in Arlington? Plenty! While Arlington is sometimes overshadowed by D.C.’s attractions, it offers its own rich array of museums, dining, nightlife, outdoor activities, and seasonal events. Plus, the best of D.C. is at your doorstep. Here are some of the top things to do and experience in and around Arlington:
Historical Sites and Museums:
Arlington is steeped in history. A must-visit is Arlington National Cemetery, the nation’s most hallowed military resting place, where you can see the Eternal Flame at President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite and witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Within the cemetery grounds is Arlington House (The Robert E. Lee Memorial), offering historic insight and one of the best views of Washington. Adjacent to Arlington Cemetery is the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial) – an iconic statue commemorating Marines in WWII. Another significant site is the Pentagon; while tours of the Pentagon require advance arrangement, anyone can visit the Pentagon 9/11 Memorial outside, a moving tribute to the lives lost in 2001.
Although the Smithsonian museums are across the river, Arlington has some unique museums as well. The DEA Museum near Pentagon City explores the history of drug law enforcement. In Crystal City, you’ll find the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington as mentioned, plus the playful Synetic Theater for a different kind of artistic experience. And remember, D.C.’s incredible museums (Natural History, Air & Space, National Gallery of Art, etc.) are a short Metro ride away – many Arlington residents take frequent advantage of these free world-class institutions. Living in Arlington means having the Smithsonian, National Mall, Capitol, and more as essentially an extension of your backyard.
Dining and Nightlife: We touched on Arlington’s dining scene in the amenities section, but it’s truly one of the pleasures of living here. You could spend weeks exploring the restaurants of Arlington and still have new cuisines to try – from cozy cafes to celebrity-chef eateries. Some dining highlights: Ambar Clarendon for endless Balkan small plates, Pupatella for award-winning Neapolitan pizza (Ballston), Ruthie’s All-Day in Shirlington for Texas-style smoked meats and comfort food, and Kabob Palace in Crystal City, a beloved 24/7 Afghan kabob joint. For sweet treats, check out Out of the Bubble Bakery (gluten-free desserts) or the local farmers markets for fresh pastries.
After dinner, Arlington’s nightlife awaits, especially if you’re in your 20s/30s and enjoy a social scene. Clarendon is the epicenter – try spots like Clarendon Ballroom (rooftop dance venue), Spider Kelly’s (laid-back bar with games) or Wilson Hardware (trendy multilevel lounge). In Courthouse, beer enthusiasts hit Courthouse Social or Ireland’s Four Courts (a classic Irish pub). Ballston has added bars like WHINO, an art-gallery-meets-bar, and Punch Bowl Social with arcade games and bowling. Live music is often found at smaller venues or during events – for example, Rhodeside Grill hosts live bands and Galaxy Hut in Courthouse is known for its eclectic music nights. If you’re into board games or something different, The Board Room in Clarendon lets you play games with friends over drinks. And for a truly unique Arlington night out, don’t miss Salsa night at The Renegade in Clarendon – live music and dancing that’s a blast even for beginners. Whether you prefer a relaxed brewery (try New District Brewing near Shirlington) or a chic cocktail bar, Arlington’s nightlife offers options to fit every mood.
Outdoor and Family Activities: Arlington’s outdoor recreation deserves another mention in the context of fun things to do. Families can enjoy countless playgrounds and splash pads (Lubber Run Amphitheater Park is great for summer water play followed by a kid-friendly concert). Bike the scenic Mount Vernon Trail along the Potomac, which runs from Arlington down to George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate – you’ll get breathtaking views of DC monuments along the way. Runners can take on the Army Ten-Miler or the full Marine Corps Marathon, both major races that course through Arlington’s streets each fall. If you like team sports, Arlington’s rec leagues are very active (from adult kickball to youth soccer). Nature lovers should visit Gulf Branch Nature Center or Long Branch Nature Center, which have trails and live animal exhibits (turtles, owls, etc.) – perfect for kids.
Arlington also hosts fun seasonal events and festivals throughout the year. In spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom, many Arlingtonians head to Gravelly Point Park or Long Bridge Park to view the blossoms and DC skyline without the crowds. Summer brings the Rosslyn Cinema outdoor movie series and neighborhood block parties. Fall is festival season: Clarendon Day in September is a huge street festival with music, food vendors, and activities for all ages. There’s also Yorktown’s Octoberfest and various Halloween events (including the famous Healy Family Halloween House in Ashton Heights that draws visitors regionwide!). In December, Holiday Lights on the Potomac sees the Pentagon City area lit up, and neighborhoods like Aurora Highlands organize lovely holiday home decoration tours. Simply put, there’s always something happening in or near Arlington – you can be as busy and involved as you want to be. And whenever you seek more, the theaters, sports events (Capitals, Nationals, etc.), and nightlife of D.C. are just across the river waiting.
In summary, Arlington offers a rich tapestry of activities: historical exploration, endless dining, social nightlife, abundant outdoor adventures, and community celebrations. Boredom is not an option here!
For families (and even resale value considerations for professionals without kids), schools are a huge factor in relocating. Arlington shines in this area, with a public school system that is among the best in Virginia and highly regarded nationally. Here’s an overview of Arlington’s schools and educational appeal:
Arlington Public Schools (APS) operates the county’s public schools and serves about 27,000 students across 37 schools (including 24 elementary, 6 middle, 4 high schools, and specialized programs). APS has a reputation for excellence and innovation. It consistently achieves top rankings in the state – in fact, Arlington Public Schools was recently ranked #2 Best School District in Virginia (only behind the much smaller Falls Church City). Niche gives APS an overall A grade, with particularly high marks in academics, teachers, college prep, and extracurriculars. For families, this translates to confidence that their kids will receive a quality education in Arlington.
Some highlights of Arlington’s school system:
Overall, Arlington’s family appeal is strongly tied to its schools. The combination of high-performing public schools, a range of educational choices, and safe, enriching school environments makes Arlington a magnet for parents who want the best for their kids. When comparing to other areas (as we will next), Arlington’s schools give it a clear edge over many communities.
The D.C. metro area has several popular jurisdictions – notably Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax County in Northern Virginia. If you’re relocating to the region, you might be weighing Arlington against these neighbors. Here’s a quick comparison in terms of housing, amenities, and schools to help you understand the differences:
Housing and Cost: Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax all offer attractive neighborhoods but at different price points and densities. Arlington’s housing is, on average, the priciest per square foot due to its close-in location and urban demand. The median sale price in Arlington is around $700K , while Alexandria’s median home price is a bit lower (around $620K), and Fairfax County’s median is roughly in between (around $730K). In Arlington you’re often paying for a smaller lot or condo; Alexandria (the city of Alexandria) has a mix of condos and historic rowhomes that can be slightly more affordable than Arlington’s newer units. Fairfax County, being vast and suburban, has the widest range – from relatively affordable townhouses/condos in areas like Centreville or Herndon, to multimillion-dollar estates in McLean or Great Falls. Generally, your budget stretches further in Fairfax in terms of house size and yard, but you sacrifice walkability and add to your commute. Alexandria offers the charm of Old Town with its colonial-era homes and a bit more value for money compared to Arlington for similar townhouse properties. However, keep in mind property taxes too: all three have similar tax rates, but on a higher-priced Arlington home you’ll pay more annually. If you crave a single-family home under $800K, you’ll find more options in Fairfax’s suburbs. If you’re content with a condo or duplex, Arlington and Alexandria both have plenty, with Alexandria’s tending to cost slightly less. In short, Arlington is generally the most expensive of the three (especially for buying a house), with Alexandria close behind, and Fairfax ranging from moderate to high depending on the locale.
Lifestyle and Amenities: All three areas boast great amenities, but with different atmospheres. Arlington vs. Alexandria: Arlington is more modern urban, with its high-rise corridor and vibrant nightlife, whereas Alexandria is known for historic charm and a slower pace in many neighborhoods. For example, Alexandria’s crown jewel, Old Town Alexandria, features cobblestone streets, 18th-century buildings, and a waterfront – offering boutique shopping and fine dining in a preserved historic setting that Arlington doesn’t have. However, Arlington’s urban villages (Clarendon, etc.) are more contemporary – if you prefer new developments, trendy eateries, and a youthful scene, Arlington leads. Both Arlington and Alexandria have good walkability in their core neighborhoods and direct Metro access to D.C. – Alexandria’s Metro stations (like King Street, Braddock Road) primarily serve the northern part of the city, whereas Arlington’s are spread throughout. Alexandria has a larger geographic footprint and includes some very suburban-feeling sections (western Alexandria feels like Fairfax, with malls and car-centric strips). Arlington is more uniformly urbanized. Fairfax County, by contrast, is predominantly suburban. It’s a huge county that includes everything from dense “edge cities” like Tysons Corner (a major business/shopping district with Metro) to rural horse country out near the Loudoun border. Amenities in Fairfax tend to be more spread out – you drive to large shopping centers or parks rather than walking. Fairfax does have world-class shopping (Tysons Corner Center is one of the nation’s largest malls, and Mosaic District in Merrifield is a newer urban-style town center). Culturally, Fairfax has Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts (an outdoor concert venue) and the Smithsonian’s Air & Space Udvar-Hazy Center near Dulles Airport. But if you want city-like convenience, restaurants on your block, and not needing a car daily, Fairfax can’t match Arlington or Alexandria. Conversely, if you want a big yard, a two-car garage, and quieter streets, Fairfax shines.
Schools: We’ve discussed Arlington’s excellent schools. How do Alexandria and Fairfax compare? Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is one of the nation’s largest and most acclaimed school systems, regularly in top national rankings. It has many high-performing schools, including Thomas Jefferson High (a magnet school often ranked #1 in the U.S.) and multiple Blue Ribbon schools. On average, Fairfax schools are very strong – in state rankings, FCPS usually has several districts and schools in the top tier, though because of its size and diversity, the performance can vary regionally. Generally, families can’t go wrong with Fairfax schools, especially in the affluent areas (Langley HS, McLean HS, Chantilly HS, etc. are all highly regarded). Arlington’s advantage is that all its schools are consistently high-quality and it’s a smaller system with more personalized attention. Fairfax offers a huge breadth of programs but perhaps not as uniformly across the board (some FCPS schools in lower-income areas don’t perform as high, whereas nearly all APS schools do well). Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS), on the other hand, has historically lagged behind both Arlington and Fairfax. Alexandria has fewer schools (one big public high school, Alexandria City HS, formerly T.C. Williams). While there are some bright spots (Maury and Lyles-Crouch are well-regarded elementary schools, for instance), ACPS has faced challenges with overcrowding and mixed test results. Niche’s rankings typically put Alexandria’s district quite a bit lower than Arlington/Falls Church/Fairfax. That said, Alexandria is investing in improvement, and some families do choose its schools for the diversity and unique programs. But if top-tier public schools are a priority, Arlington and Fairfax have the stronger reputations (Arlington #2 in VA, Fairfax also usually top 5, whereas Alexandria isn’t near the top). Many Alexandria families consider private schools or magnet programs if they have concerns.
Community and Lifestyle Considerations: Think about what kind of community you want. Arlington offers an almost “urban-lite” lifestyle – very high volunteerism and community events, but can feel transient due to the large young professional population (people often move in and later upsize out to Fairfax when they have kids, though many do stay). Alexandria has a bit more of a traditional community feel, especially in neighborhoods that have been around for centuries. There’s pride in local history and a strong arts scene. Fairfax varies – some areas have a small-town vibe (Vienna, Herndon), others are pure suburbia. If you work in DC, Arlington and Alexandria cut your commute significantly relative to most of Fairfax. If you need to commute to tech hubs like Reston or Chantilly, living in Fairfax might make more sense. Cost-wise, note that Arlington and Alexandria have a 5% meals tax on restaurant dining on top of sales tax, whereas Fairfax doesn’t – a small thing, but noticeable if you dine out often.
In the end, each locale has its pros and cons. Arlington often wins for those who want to be as close to DC as possible without sacrificing schools or safety – it’s the priciest but offers amazing convenience and amenities. Alexandria appeals to those charmed by history or who find Arlington a tad too new or expensive; it has its own downtown (Old Town) and can be a touch more affordable, but schools are a drawback. Fairfax County attracts those needing more space, a bit more distance from urban hustle, and perhaps a slightly lower cost per square foot – it has fantastic communities especially for families, but you’ll be driving more and your “going out” options might not be walking distance. Many people’s trajectory is actually to enjoy renting in Arlington or Alexandria in their younger years, then move to Fairfax for more house later when starting a family – but plenty of families also happily thrive in Arlington and Alexandria condos or townhomes, trading space for location. Consider your priorities: budget, commute, lifestyle, schools, and you’ll make the right choice. And remember, all these areas are relatively close – living in Arlington doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a weekend in Old Town Alexandria, or living in Fairfax means you won’t dine in Clarendon occasionally. Northern Virginia offers rich experiences everywhere.
To wrap up, here are answers to ten frequently asked questions people have when considering a move to Arlington, Virginia:
Relocating to Arlington, VA is an exciting step – you’ll be joining a community known for its strong economy, top schools, and outstanding quality of life. When you’re ready to make the move, let The Colgan Team be your guide. As experts in Northern Virginia real estate, we have the local insight and experience to find you the perfect Arlington home and negotiate the best price. Whether you’re searching for a trendy condo in Clarendon or a spacious family home in a quiet North Arlington neighborhood, our dedicated Realtors will work tirelessly on your behalf.
Why choose The Colgan Team? We pride ourselves on personalized service and deep knowledge of the Arlington market. From the first consultation, we’ll listen to your needs and tailor our strategy to meet your goals. You’ll receive honest advice on neighborhoods, pricing, and timing. We’ll leverage our network and resources to give you an edge – often learning about listings before they hit the market. And if you’re selling a home as part of your move, our marketing expertise will ensure you get top dollar quickly. Our goal is not just to complete transactions, but to build relationships and make clients for life. We want you to love where you live, and we’ll go above and beyond to make that happen.
Take the next step: Visit our website at www.colganteam.com to start browsing current Arlington listings and learn more about our services. Better yet, give us a call or send an email – we’d be happy to set up a no-obligation consultation. Moving can be daunting, but with the right team on your side, it doesn’t have to be. The Colgan Team is here to answer your questions, help you navigate the Arlington market, and ultimately find your ideal home. We look forward to welcoming you to Arlington and being a part of your successful relocation story!
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