Tucked away at the upper edge of Northern Virginia, Arlington has a reputation for patriotism and history. However, this well-known city strikes a balance between its roots and modern, trendy residential and commercial living, making knowledgeable Arlington real estate agents highly sought after.
But if you’re thinking of moving to the Crystal City, you should know it has so much more to offer than the Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon. Here, we’ll share 10 things you should be aware of before you become an Arlington, VA, resident.
Washington, D.C., is its own territory, so it’s not technically part of Virginia. Still, at a 15-minute drive away, it will be your closest neighbor if you move to Arlington. This major city is situated on the southwestern bank of the renowned Potomac River. Although it’s only 26 square miles, Arlington ranks as the fourth most populous city in Virginia, with many people choosing to live there instead of in D.C.
Over the years, major news outlets and publishers have consistently ranked Arlington among the top 10 (and sometimes #1) places to live in America. These studies examine factors such as job markets, resident satisfaction, public services available, school districts, crime rates, and the cost of living. Although Arlington is expensive, its high scores in all the other categories firmly place it on the list of favorite cities to move to in the United States.
Who is the ideal person to move to this top-rated city? Well, since the median age here is about 35, you’ll see many young professionals and growing families in your neighborhood. Although the cost of living is higher than the national average, the median family income is also more. Check out the Living Wage Calculator developed by MIT to see how your family situation would look if you moved to Arlington.
Do you love learning about history, art, or culture? If so, you’ll be right at home in Arlington. Its direct connection to our country’s earliest beginnings means history is everywhere, but the art and culture scenes are thriving, as well.
Because Arlington is prime real estate for those who work in Washington, D.C., and other nearby cities, reliable public transportation is essential. Say goodbye to your personal vehicle and enjoy the cost savings and perks of the Metrorail and the area’s bus system, connecting Arlington to D.C. Much of the city is pedestrian-friendly, and bikes and other green options are easy to find.
Is living in a health-friendly environment important to you? You’ll be pleased to know that Arlington encourages its residents to be active, offering fitness and aquatic centers, outdoor activities, fields, and trails. You’ll also find nutritious restaurants and shops for any diet. Healthy living is a part of life in Arlington (but they won’t force it on you).
When you move to Arlington, you don’t have to stay cooped up in your home. Your neighborhood is likely very explorer-friendly and walkable! Clean streets full of the beauty of nature, friendly residents, and nearby amenities make this city just right for those who want to blend privacy and social connection.
It’s easy to see why so many people want to live in Arlington, but this high demand can make it challenging to find a home here. Many people who move to this area don’t want to leave! Be ready to put an offer on your dream house fast before someone else snatches it up!
Although thousands of people take public transportation instead of driving a personal vehicle, there’s still traffic to contend with. Roads can become congested as cars, bikes, and pedestrians rush to their next destination. While it’s not necessary, patience comes in very handy in Arlington (along with time management skills so you can leave early).
If you’re bringing a family to Arlington with you, the school system is important. Arlington County Public Schools are highly ranked. In fact, some of these educational institutions are among the top schools in the country.
If you’re on the fence about moving to Arlington, chances are, someone else has just grabbed your dream house. Beautiful weather, a temperate climate, friendly neighbors, and a booming job market make this city a favorite. Don’t wait! Start checking out your renting or buying options today.
