The Guide to Living in Arlington, Virginia
A dynamic city in Northern Virginia with unmatched energy and charm
THE GUIDE TO LIVING IN ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA
The History of Arlington,Virginia
Arlington, Virginia, has a rich and varied history that is closely tied to its proximity to Washington, D.C. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area was established by European settlers in the early 17th century. It was part of the larger territory known as the county of Alexandria, which was later separated from Fairfax County in 1801.
The name "Arlington" is derived from Arlington House, the former home of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, which overlooks the nation's capital. During the Civil War, Arlington became a significant military site. Following the war, in 1864, the U.S. government designated the land of the Lee estate as a military cemetery, now known as Arlington National Cemetery, which serves as the final resting place for many American service members.
In the 20th century, Arlington's demographic and economic landscape changed significantly. The construction of the Pentagon in 1941 and subsequent improvements to transportation, including the expansion of Metro services in the 1970s, contributed to rapid urban development. Throughout the latter half of the century, Arlington transitioned from a largely residential county into a bustling urban community characterized by a mix of commercial, residential, and governmental establishments.
Today, Arlington, Virginia stands as a bustling close-in suburb of Washington, D.C. and as one of the most desirable places to live in the entire United States. The home to numerous government agencies, non-profit organizations, and Fortune 500 corporations, including Nestle, CoStar, and Amazon, Arlington, Virginia features several charming neighborhoods and a diverse network of high quality public transportation and public schools.
THE HOMES COLLECTION
The Homes of Arlington, Virginia
Explore a curated collection of Arlington, Virginia’s most iconic homes.
THE GUIDE TO LIVING IN ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA
“Arlington, Virginia offers a fantastic blend of convenience and charm just moments from the Nation’s Capital.”
— Byron V. Hughey, Vice President at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty
Camusrory of Woodstock, Virginia. Image courtesy of Reader & Swartz Architects.
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The Most Influential Modern Architects in the Mid-Atlantic
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THE GUIDE TO LIVING IN ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore frequently asked questions about life in Arlington, Virginia, including the best neighborhoods, restaurants, and more.
WHAT ARE THE TOP SITES AND ATTRACTIONS IN ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA?
Arlington, Virginia has many amazing sites and attractions, perhaps none more so than Arlington House, the former residence of General Robert E. Lee, and Arlington National Cemetery.
HOW MANY PEOPLE LIVE IN ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA?
According to the 2020 Census data, Arlington, Virginia has a population of 237,879 people, including a median age of 39 and a median household income of $124,925.
WHAT ARE THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA?
Arlington, Virginia has many fabulous restaurants, including fine dining and more casual options. In Clarendon, Lyon Hall is regarded for its impressive bar program and dynamic French and German fare. In Cherrydale, the iconic Crisp & Juicy serves delicious Peruvian style chicken in a casual take-out environment. For upscale American fare, the Green Pig Bistro in Court House is a popular choice. And in the charming Westover neighborhood, The Italian Store offers unmatched pizza by the slice.
HOW FAR IS ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA FROM WASHINGTON, D.C.?
Arlington, Virginia is approximately 5 miles from downtown Washington, D.C. For daily commuters, Metro rail is the most popular mode of transportation, as is biking and even walking for those who live just across the river in Rosslyn.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BUY A HOME IN ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA?
The median sale price for a single family home in the Arlington, Virginia is $696,500, which is over twice the national average of $308,980. Ready to buy the home of your dreams? Browse homes for sale in Arlington, Virginia presented by Sotheby’s International Realty.
WHAT IS THE PROPERTY TAX RATE FOR ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA?
As determined by Arlington County, property taxes for Arlington, Virginia are $1.013 per $100 of assessed value for tax year 2024. An additional $0.017 is levied for stormwater management.
IS ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA A GOOD PLACE TO LIVE?
Due to its close proximity to Washington, D.C., it’s quality public schools and transportation, and its diverse populace, Arlington, Virginia is among the best places to live in the United States.
WHAT ARE THE BEST NEIGHBORHOODS IN ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA?
Arlington, Virginia has several great neighborhoods. For walkability and access to public transportation, neighborhoods like Ballston and Court House offer unmatched convenience. For a more suburban feel, residents of Arlington, Virginia enjoy the charming Cherrydale, Westover, and Lyon Village neighborhoods.
WHAT IS THE SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA?
Residents of Arlington, Virginia attend Arlington Country Public Schools, including Yorktown High School.
THE RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER COMPANY
Find a Trusted Design Professional in Arlington, Virginia
Explore a curated collection of the very best Residential Architects, Custom Home Builders, Interior Designers, and Landscape Architects in Arlington, Virginia, including members of our Partner Network
Crescent Hills Custom of Arlington, Virginia. Image courtesy of Stacy Zarin Goldberg.
Country Club Hills Colonial of Arlington, Virginia. Image courtesy of Stacy Zarin Goldberg.
ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA
The Ventura Group
The Ventura Group is a Custom Home Builder in Arlington, Virginia
Chesterbrook Farm Revival of McLean, Virginia. Image courtesy of Keyanna Bowen, East & Lane.
ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA
Karlton Kelly Interiors
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THE RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER COMPANY
Create Your Next Home in Arlington, Virginia
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