🎯 Arlington Neighborhood Guide – Where to Buy Based on Your Lifestyle (Part 1)
In Arlington, your neighborhood choice shapes your entire lifestyle. Whether you crave walkable city energy, classic charm, or peaceful green space, there’s a place here that fits you. In Part 1 of this three-part guide, we’re breaking down three of the most searched and beloved neighborhoods among Arlington buyers: Clarendon, Fairlington, and Arlington Forest.
If you’re buying a home in Arlington, use this guide to find a location that truly fits how you live now — and how you want to live in the future.
🏙️ Clarendon – For the City-Lover Who Wants It All
Clarendon is Arlington’s ultimate urban hub. With its Orange and Silver line Metro access, you’re one stop from DC, and steps from Whole Foods, rooftop bars, boutique gyms, and buzzing coffee shops. Homes here include modern condos, stylish townhomes, and a handful of single-family homes tucked behind the main strip.
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Best for: social buyers, young professionals, and those who want car-optional living
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Vibe: energetic, modern, always evolving
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Walkability: Steps to Trader Joe’s, Clarendon Metro, Northside Social, The Crossing Clarendon, and weekly farmers markets
Explore Clarendon homes for sale
🌿 Fairlington – For Lifestyle Transitions and Multigenerational Living
Fairlington strikes the rare balance between charm, community, and flexibility. The classic red-brick townhomes appeal to just about everyone; from young couples and new families to retirees and remote workers. It’s ideal for buyers looking to transition out of condo life into more space, or those downsizing from a larger single-family home. Plus, the HOA handles exterior maintenance, giving it a low-maintenance appeal.
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Best for: first-time buyers, starter families, and multigenerational households
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Vibe: peaceful, historic, neighborly
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Walkability: Walk to the Village at Shirlington, dog parks, bus stops, playgrounds, and the W&OD Trail. Minutes to I-395, Del Ray, and Amazon HQ2.
View Fairlington listings here
🌳 Arlington Forest – For Nature-Lovers Who Still Want Convenience
Bordering the lush trails of Lubber Run Park, Arlington Forest offers detached homes with real yards, friendly neighbors, and a community that feels tucked away, even though you’re just minutes from Ballston and Route 50. The neighborhood is known for its traditional colonial-style homes, tree-lined streets, and active civic association.
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Best for: families, buyers craving green space, and those who want a quieter pace without leaving Arlington
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Vibe: residential, established, community-minded
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Walkability: Close to Arlington Forest Shopping Center, parks, tennis courts, elementary schools, and easy biking distance to Ballston Quarter and Metro
Browse Arlington Forest homes
Coming up next in Part 2: We’ll cover two Arlington neighborhoods that offer amazing value and unique character; perfect for buyers who want more space or historic charm.