The major residents of Virginia are young adults and professionals, and Arlington is among some of its cities where this group often moves.
Sitting right across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Arlington has a mix of urban and suburban feel.
Its access to some of the most powerful institutions in the world makes it a prime location for anyone who likes to stay close to the action.
Arlington has about 234,162 residents and is known for being home to the Pentagon. Career opportunities for professionals in government, tech, defense, and education are only one highlight of the benefits of living here.
So, what’s in it for you as a resident here?
If you are thinking of moving to Arlington, VA, here are 5 things to know that will help you settle in quickly and thrive.
1. Arlington is a Powerhouse for Career Opportunities
Being just across the river from Washington, D.C., has its perks, especially for those in politics, government, and related sectors.
…but Arlington doesn’t just borrow its career shine from its famous neighbor. It shines in its own right.
The Arlington job market is interesting because of tech startups, Amazon headquarters, and education-focused institutions. Its job market is also diverse and stable, and the median household income, which exceeds the national average, reflects that.
- Median Household Income: $137,387
- Unemployment Rate: 3.0%
- Poverty Rate: 6.7%
While the proximity to the Pentagon and D.C. in general is of particular advantage to those who work in government, moving to Arlington, VA, does not mean you have to work in a public office.
You can work in cybersecurity, public policy, or healthcare. Or, you could even work remotely. There are local co-working spaces and venues where you can network.
2. Prepare for a High Cost of Living
Arlington’s opportunities and proximity to D.C. come at a premium.
The cost of living is a whopping 36% higher than the national average. Depending on where you are moving to Arlington, VA, from, that would likely mean you will spend more on housing, groceries, and even healthcare than you would in any other part of the country.
| Expense Category | Compared to the National Average |
| Housing | 112% higher |
| Utilities | 2% lower |
| Groceries | 13% higher |
| Transportation | 1% lower |
| Healthcare | 12% higher |
Plus, the real estate market here is very competitive. As of February 2025, home prices had increased by 10% compared to the previous year.
The competitive market is driven by the high demand for homes in the county, the area’s affluence, excellent public schools, and safety.
Even though there are more renters than homeowners here, you may need the assistance of movers in Arlington, VA, to help you navigate the fast-paced housing market and settle into your new place efficiently.
- Average House Rent: $2,689
- Median Home Value: $732,500
But the upside is that you get what you pay for in Arlington!
The neighborhoods are immaculate, and the schools are top-rated. Add easy access to global hubs, and you discover it is an investment that often pays off.
Note:
Home values tend to rise steadily here. However, if you are a first-time buyer or renter, start early.
Neighborhoods like Ballston-Virginia Square, Clarendon, and Courthouse are popular for young professionals, while areas like Aurora Highlands offer a quieter vibe with family-friendly streets and green spaces.
3. Choose Your Neighborhood Carefully
While all these mentions of Arlington may lead you to believe it is a small city lurking in the shadows of D.C., nothing could be farther from the truth.
Arlington is actually an urban county stretching over 26 square miles.
With over 50 neighborhoods, Arlington has more diversity than you may have imagined. Each neighborhood has its vibe and perks, but that also means you will have to choose where you live carefully.
The different Arlington, VA, zip code locations offering varying lifestyles are a major perk because you can tailor your lifestyle here.
As a recent graduate, a young family, or a remote worker seeking coffee shop corners, a pocket of Arlington fits you.
Want high-energy, walkable nightlife? Head to Clarendon or Ballston.
Looking for something more peaceful and suburban? Try Lyon Village or Cherrydale.
Want to enjoy green spaces? Shirlington might be your match.
- Clarendon — Lively nightlife and restaurant scene
- Ballston — Urban living with more affordable options
- Crystal City — Redevelopment hub, Amazon HQ2 expansion
- Columbia Pike — Budget-friendly with a strong community vibe
- Arlington Ridge and Pentagon City — Upscale living, transit access, close to D.C.
Note:
Before moving to Arlington, VA, it may help you to spend a few weekends exploring before committing. Stroll through the streets and talk to locals—each block tells a different story.
4. You Don’t Need a Car
Arlington is one of those rare cities where you can live without owning a car, even if most residents still choose to.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) network covers the city’s public transportation means.
WMATA offers Metrorail, Metrobus, and plenty of bike lanes and trails. Thankfully, the traffic is not always heavy, even though the average commute time in Arlington (33 minutes) is 1 minute longer than the national average.
As for the Arlington, VA airport, you are also close to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), making business or leisure travel easier.
While the city itself has voted against a standalone mass public transit system three times, Arlington has doubled down on walkability. The developments being made in the area are transit-oriented, with access to D.C.’s better-developed system.
Note:
If you must commute regularly, it’s best to live near a Metro stop. Clarendon, Rosslyn, and Ballston are all major hubs.
5. You Will Never Be Bored
Social life in Arlington is more than active and alive; it’s actually thriving.
From outdoor movie nights in the summer to food truck festivals, rooftop brunches in Clarendon, and salsa dancing in Rosslyn, there are plenty of events and activities to engage in.
If you prefer live music over theater or want stories from history instead of hopping around microbreweries, you can find quite the perfect destination here.
Arlington’s food scene is also surprisingly diverse. From Ethiopian gems in Columbia Pike to fancy steakhouses in Crystal City and trendy brunch spots in Clarendon, options abound.
Some of the best restaurants Arlington, VA, has to offer include:
- Himalayan Wild Yak
- Thai O-Cha Express
…they open in April and March, respectively.
Note:
Don’t forget to mark your calendar for annual events like Arlington County Fair, Rosslyn Jazz Fest, and Columbia Pike Blues Festival. These are great ways to meet people and feel like part of the community.
Urban Energy, Suburban Ease—Arlington Has It All
Moving to Arlington, VA, means immersing yourself in a lively, fast-paced city full of opportunity. But it is also grounded in safety, community, and access.
While the cost of living is high, the quality of life also stays high. The job market is booming, the neighborhoods are lively and unique, and you will never run out of things to do, see, eat, or explore.
Arlington is not just D.C.’s cheaper neighbor; it’s a city where ambition meets livability. If you come prepared, it might just be the best move you ever make.
So, maybe pack those bags already.
