Arlington, VA, is home to a wide range of unique neighborhoods, each with its own character and appeal.
Whether you’re drawn to the bustling urban environment of high-rise buildings or prefer a quieter,
suburban feel just a few miles from Washington, D.C., Arlington has something to suit every lifestyle.
But how do you choose the right neighborhood for you? In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some
of the neighborhoods in Arlington, VA to help you find the perfect place to call home.
1. Crystal City: The Urban Gem of Arlington
Located in South Arlington, Crystal City is a vibrant and highly urbanized neighborhood that’s also part of the National Landing area. Known for being the home of Amazon’s HQ2, Crystal City is the epitome of modern living. This neighborhood offers a variety of shopping options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. Plus, there’s entertainment galore, including the Alamo Drafthouse, Synetic Theater, and a popular water park.
Crystal City is perfect for those who prefer an urban lifestyle with easy access to transportation. With the Yellow and Blue Metro lines, Reagan National Airport, and major roadways nearby, you’re just minutes away from everything. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Gravelly Point Park, Long Bridge Park, and the Mount Vernon Trail. Pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks and trails, Crystal City is great for walking and biking. Housing options here primarily consist of condominiums and townhomes, with prices ranging from around $500,000 to $950,000.
2. Aurora Highlands: A Suburban Retreat Near the City
Just west of Crystal City, Aurora Highlands offers a more suburban feel without sacrificing convenience. Located near 23rd Street, this neighborhood boasts several longstanding bars and restaurants like Kebab Palace, Freddy’s Beach Bar, and Crystal City Sports Pub. While you won’t find as many shops here, nearby Crystal City and Pentagon City provide plenty of retail options.
Aurora Highlands is also a great spot for those who enjoy a quieter, residential lifestyle while still being close to the action. The neighborhood offers easy access to Metro stations on the Yellow and Blue lines, as well as several bus stops. Outdoor spaces like Virginia Highlands Park provide green areas, sports fields, and a small dog park. Housing in this area includes primarily single-family homes, with prices ranging from around $750,000 to a few million dollars.
3. Shirlington: A Blend of Suburban Charm and Urban Amenities
Situated on the border of Alexandria, Shirlington offers a unique mix of suburban comfort and urban flavor. The neighborhood is home to some fantastic dining options, including Carlysle, Busboys and Poets, and Best Buns Bread Company. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities in the area, making it a great place for those who love to explore.
While Shirlington doesn’t have its own metro station, it’s well-served by bus stops, and driving is relatively easy, though parking can be limited. The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly, with notable outdoor spaces such as Reynolds Park and Shirlington Park. Homes in Shirlington are primarily condominiums and townhouses, with prices ranging from around $200,000 to about $850,000.
4. Lyon Village: A Suburban Haven in the Heart of North Arlington
Lyon Village, located just north of Clarendon Boulevard, offers a quaint, suburban neighborhood feel despite being close to the urban energy of Clarendon and Courthouse. While Lyon Village itself doesn’t have an abundance of shopping or dining options, nearby neighborhoods like Clarendon and Courthouse are filled with retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
This neighborhood is perfect for those who want easy access to urban amenities but prefer a quieter, more residential area. With plenty of metro stations and bus stops nearby, Lyon Village offers convenient transportation options. The neighborhood is also great for walking, with access to Village Park and Clarendon Central Park. Housing options in Lyon Village range from condominiums to single-family homes, with prices ranging from several hundred thousand dollars to several million dollars.
5. Chain Bridge Forest: Secluded Luxury in North Arlington
If you’re seeking a more private, peaceful neighborhood, Chain Bridge Forest in north Arlington offers a serene environment with beautiful, architecturally stunning homes. Located just off the George Washington Parkway, this neighborhood is secluded and free from commercial development, meaning no shopping or restaurants directly within the area.
The homes here are exclusively single-family and typically cost over $1,000,000. While Chain Bridge Forest is a great neighborhood for pedestrians, it’s car-dependent due to the lack of nearby metro stations. However, easy access to major roads provides convenient transportation options to D.C. and surrounding areas.
6. Westover: A Historic Neighborhood with Local Charm
Westover, located in North Arlington just off Route 66, is a historic neighborhood that offers a more laid-back, community-oriented vibe. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places for its unique buildings dating back to 1939-1948, Westover is ideal for history buffs and those who appreciate architectural charm.
Westover features a mix of residential homes and a few townhouses, with prices ranging from $750,000 to over $1 million. The neighborhood offers several local shops and restaurants, including Café Lebanese Verna, The Italian Store, and Toby’s Homemade Ice Cream. While there are no metro stations in the area, several bus stops make it easy to get around. Westover also has great access to Washington Boulevard and Route 66, connecting you to D.C. and other parts of Northern Virginia.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Neighborhood for You in Arlington
Choosing the right neighborhood in Arlington depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you’re looking for the urban buzz of Crystal City, the suburban charm of Aurora Highlands, or the peaceful, secluded luxury of Chain Bridge Forest, Arlington offers a variety of options. Each neighborhood has its own unique vibe, but all provide easy access to Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia.
* All data, house pricing, stats, and anything else mentioned are always subject to change and are provided merely as an example at the time of writing.