Relocating to Northern Virginia
Moving to a new area is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming — especially when you are buying a home from a distance. Whether you are relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, this guide will help you understand what Northern Virginia has to offer and how to make your move as smooth as possible.
Why Move to Northern Virginia?
Northern Virginia offers a unique combination of career opportunities, quality of life, and community that makes it one of the best places to live on the East Coast.
Thriving Job Market
Northern Virginia is home to major tech companies, government agencies, and defense contractors. The region consistently ranks among the top job markets in the country.
Excellent Schools
Fairfax County and Loudoun County public schools are among the highest-rated in the nation, making the area ideal for families with children.
Diverse Communities
Northern Virginia is one of the most culturally diverse regions in the U.S., with vibrant international communities, restaurants, and cultural events.
Proximity to Washington, D.C.
Easy access to the nation's capital means world-class museums, dining, entertainment, and career opportunities are just a short commute away.
Outdoor Recreation
From the W&OD Trail to the Shenandoah Valley, Northern Virginia offers hiking, biking, parks, and outdoor activities year-round.
Cost of Living in Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia has a higher cost of living compared to the national average, but salaries in the region tend to reflect that. Here is a general overview to help you plan your budget.
- Housing: Median home prices range from $500K to $800K+ depending on the area. Condos and townhomes offer more affordable entry points.
- Transportation: Many residents commute via Metro, VRE, or car. Gas prices and tolls are moderate, and the Silver Line Metro expansion has improved access.
- Groceries and Dining: Slightly above the national average, with a wide range of international grocery stores and restaurants.
- Utilities: Average monthly utilities run around $150–$250 depending on home size and season.
- Taxes: Virginia has a state income tax and property taxes vary by county. I can help you understand the tax implications for your specific situation.
Best Areas by Lifestyle
Northern Virginia has something for everyone — from urban living near the Metro to spacious communities further out. Here are the most popular areas for relocating families and professionals, all commutable to Washington, D.C.
Herndon
A charming town with a walkable downtown, strong community feel, and easy access to the Dulles Toll Road. Great for families and young professionals.
Best for: Families, first-time buyers
Reston
A planned community with lakes, trails, and a town center. Reston offers a mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes near the Silver Line Metro.
Best for: Commuters, outdoor enthusiasts
Ashburn
A fast-growing area in Loudoun County with newer homes, top-rated schools, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Close to One Loudoun and the Dulles Greenway.
Best for: Growing families, tech professionals
Arlington
Urban living with easy Metro access to D.C. Arlington offers walkable neighborhoods, vibrant dining, and a mix of apartments and townhomes.
Best for: Young professionals, commuters
Fairfax
A well-established area with excellent schools, diverse dining, and a mix of housing options. Centrally located with good access to major highways.
Best for: Families, government employees
Chantilly
A suburban community near Dulles Airport with spacious homes, good schools, and convenient access to Route 50 and I-66. Offers a quieter pace with plenty of shopping and dining options.
Best for: Families, airport professionals
Centreville
An affordable and family-friendly community with established neighborhoods, parks, and easy access to I-66 for commuting to D.C. A solid choice for buyers looking for more space.
Best for: Families, budget-conscious buyers
South Riding
A master-planned community in Loudoun County with newer homes, community pools, trails, and a strong HOA-maintained neighborhood feel. Popular with young families.
Best for: Young families, community-oriented buyers
Broadlands
A well-maintained community in Ashburn with resort-style amenities, walking trails, and top-rated Loudoun County schools. Close to the Ashburn Metro station.
Best for: Families, Metro commuters
Leesburg
A historic town with a charming downtown, wineries nearby, and a mix of older homes and new developments. Offers a small-town feel with access to the Dulles Greenway for commuting.
Best for: History lovers, families seeking space
Aldie
A rural-suburban community in western Loudoun County with larger lots, horse country views, and newer developments. Ideal for buyers who want space and a quieter lifestyle.
Best for: Space seekers, equestrian enthusiasts
Manassas
A city with its own historic downtown, VRE commuter rail access to D.C., and significantly more affordable housing compared to closer-in areas. Great value for the region.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, VRE commuters
Woodbridge
Located in Prince William County along I-95, Woodbridge offers affordable homes, VRE commuter rail, and proximity to Potomac Mills shopping. A practical choice for commuters heading south into D.C.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, I-95 commuters
Brambleton
A newer master-planned community in Loudoun County with modern amenities, a town center, community pools, and highly rated schools. One of the fastest-growing communities in the region.
Best for: Young families, new-construction buyers
Sterling
A diverse and affordable community near Dulles Airport with a mix of housing options. Sterling offers good value and convenient access to the Dulles Toll Road and Route 7.
Best for: First-time buyers, diverse communities
Tysons
The urban center of Northern Virginia with high-rise living, Tysons Corner Center, and direct Silver Line Metro access. A hub for corporate offices and upscale dining.
Best for: Urban professionals, luxury buyers
Vienna
A sought-after town with tree-lined streets, a walkable downtown, excellent schools, and the W&OD Trail. Close to the Vienna Metro station for easy D.C. commuting.
Best for: Families, walkability seekers
Buying Timeline for Relocating Buyers
Planning ahead makes all the difference when buying a home from out of state. Here is a typical timeline for relocating buyers.
Research and Planning
Start researching neighborhoods, get pre-approved for a mortgage, and connect with a local realtor who understands relocation needs.
Virtual Tours and Shortlisting
I will set up virtual tours, share video walkthroughs, and help you narrow down neighborhoods and homes that fit your priorities.
Visit and Make an Offer
Plan a focused trip to tour your top picks in person. When you find the right home, I will help you make a competitive offer quickly.
Inspections and Closing
I coordinate inspections, appraisals, and closing remotely as much as possible, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Remote Buying Support
You do not have to be local to buy a home in Northern Virginia. I work with relocating buyers every day and have the tools and processes to make remote buying seamless.
- Live and recorded video tours of homes and neighborhoods
- Detailed neighborhood guides with school ratings, commute times, and amenities
- Remote document signing and digital closing options
- Coordination with local inspectors, lenders, and service providers
- Flexible scheduling for calls and virtual meetings across time zones
Planning a Move to Northern Virginia?
Let me help you find the right home and make your relocation as smooth as possible.