The wealthiest suburbs in the DC area for relocating include lots of communities in Northern Virginia. How do you decide where to move? Are you trying to match your current lifestyle or are you ready for a change? Are you moving from a suburb outside New York City like Greenwich or Princeton? Do you want to keep your large home on a large lot? or perhaps you are interested in moving closer to the city while still maintaining an elegant lifestyle? There is a difference between Great Falls and Old Town Alexandria but both will make you very happy. You just need to decide what your lifestyle should be like when you are relocating to Northern Virginia.
Great Falls – Wealthiest Suburbs in DC Area
Nestled just outside of Washington, D.C., Great Falls, Virginia, is one of the most desirable places to live in Northern Virginia. In fact, it is one of the wealthiest suburbs in the entire United States. With its stunning natural beauty, luxurious homes, and convenient location, it’s no surprise that many people dream of settling down here. If you’re considering a move, here are five compelling reasons why Great Falls should be at the top of your list.
Great Falls is renowned for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The crown jewel of the area is Great Falls Park, where you can hike along rugged trails, enjoy scenic overlooks of the Potomac River, or even go whitewater kayaking. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply appreciate picturesque surroundings, the stunning landscapes of Great Falls offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
If you’re looking for expansive properties and elegant estates, Great Falls delivers. Many homes sit on multiple acres, offering residents privacy and tranquility. From classic colonial mansions to modern luxury residences, the real estate market caters to those seeking upscale living in a serene environment. In December 2024, the average home price in Great Falls was $1,848,830, but since the homes in Great Falls tend to be large the average price per square foot was just $384.00. Most of the homes in Great Falls are owner occupied with only about 5% of the homes being offered as rentals.
Families in Great Falls benefit from access to top-tier public and private schools. The area is served by the highly regarded Fairfax County Public Schools, with Langley High School consistently ranking among the best in the state. In addition to academics, the community is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with local parks, equestrian trails, and plenty of outdoor activities for children and adults alike. The Potomac School and the Madeira School are among some of the excellent private schools near Great Falls.
One of the best aspects of living in Great Falls is its prime location. While residents enjoy the tranquility of suburban life, they’re still just a short drive from Tysons Corner, a major hub for shopping, dining, and business. Additionally, Washington, D.C., is about 30 minutes away, making it an ideal location for professionals who work in the city but prefer a quieter home environment. It is no wonder that Great Falls is one of the wealthiest suburbs in the DC area.
Great Falls isn’t just about beautiful homes and scenic views—it also boasts a strong sense of community. The Great Falls Village Centre serves as the heart of the town, hosting farmers’ markets, Sunday concerts, and annual events that bring residents together. Meet your friends for coffee at Katie’s Coffee House or enjoy some ceviche as part of a delicious Peruvian dinner at Autentico. With a population that values connection and community involvement, Great Falls offers an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere where neighbors know each other and take pride in their hometown.
Great Falls, Virginia, combines the best of luxury living, natural beauty, and suburban convenience. Whether you’re drawn to its sprawling estates, outdoor adventures, excellent schools, or community feel, this picturesque town has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a place that offers both peaceful living and easy access to urban amenities, Great Falls might just be the perfect place to call home. To see what is on the market now, just click here!
McLean Virginia – Another of the Wealthiest Suburbs in the DC Area
Located just outside Washington, D.C., McLean, Virginia, is a prime residential area known for its high standard of living. With robust infrastructure, excellent schools, and strong economic indicators, McLean offers an ideal environment for families and professionals. Here are five data-backed reasons why McLean stands out as a top choice for homeowners.
McLean’s real estate market is among the most stable in the region. The median home price in McLean is $1.1 million, significantly higher than the national average, reflecting the area’s desirability. Additionally, 85% of residents own their homes, indicating a strong investment in long-term residency and property value appreciation.
McLean is served by Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), one of the highest-rated school districts in the U.S. Langley High School and McLean High School rank in the top 2% of U.S. public high schools, based on standardized test scores and college readiness indices. Private institutions such as The Potomac School also provide elite educational options.
McLean is strategically located near Tysons Corner, a major business district with over 26 million square feet of office space and 500+ corporate headquarters. Additionally, Washington, D.C., is just a 20-minute drive, making it a prime location for professionals working in government, consulting, and finance sectors.
McLean has one of the highest median household incomes in the nation, at approximately $207,000 per year, which is more than three times the U.S. median. The area attracts executives, diplomats, and high-ranking officials, contributing to its affluent demographic.
The area is well-maintained with extensive green spaces, including Scott’s Run Nature Preserve and the Potomac Heritage Trail, offering high-quality recreational opportunities. Clemyjontri Park is a fantastic, fully accessible playground for children, featuring colorful play structures and a carousel. Langley Fork Park offers sports fields for soccer, baseball, and lacrosse, as well as walking trails.
McLean, Virginia, stands out for its strong housing market, top-tier schools, economic opportunities, and high income levels. With its strategic location and affluent community, McLean remains a premier destination for those seeking a high-quality lifestyle within the D.C. metropolitan area. To see what is on the market now, just click here.
Vienna Virginia
Vienna is one of the wealthiest suburbs in the DC area. Vienna is a beautiful town in Northern Virginia with high-ranking schools, a bustling downtown, and lots of outdoor parks. Vienna, VA, one of the DC area’s wealthiest suburbs, is an attractive place to live for many reasons. Here are some of the top reasons why people choose to live there:
Located near Washington, D.C., Vienna offers an easy commute via I-66, Route 123, and the nearby Metro stations (Vienna/Fairfax-GMU on the Orange Line and Greensboro on the Silver Line). Vienna is part of Fairfax County Public Schools, one of the top school districts in the country. Schools like James Madison High School and Wolftrap Elementary consistently receive high rankings.
Despite being close to the nation’s capital, Vienna retains a small-town feel with local shops, parks, and a strong sense of community. The Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail runs through Vienna, offering a scenic route for biking, jogging, and walking. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens provides a peaceful retreat with stunning landscapes. Be sure to visit the Moorefield Park and the Southside Park!
Vienna hosts annual events like ViVa! Vienna! (a Memorial Day festival), Oktoberfest, and the Halloween Parade. Maple Avenue and nearby Tysons Corner offer a mix of locally owned restaurants and national brands.
Strong Real Estate Market
Active Listings: There were 133 homes for sale in January 2025, a slight decrease from December 2024.
Offer Dynamics: Properties in Vienna often receive multiple offers, with many selling above the listing price.
Median Listing Price: In December 2024, the median listing home price in Vienna was $2.1 million, reflecting an 8% increase from the previous year.
Median Sale Price: The median sale price reached $1.7 million in December 2024, marking a 34.2% rise year-over-year.
Days on Market: Homes typically sold after 48 days on the market, a decrease from 81 days the prior year, indicating heightened demand.
Sale-to-List Price Ratio: In November 2024, homes sold for approximately 100.85% of their asking price, underscoring the competitive nature of the market.
Months of Supply: The market had 1.7 months of supply in January, down from 2.6 months in January 2023, suggesting a tighter inventory. Homes in Vienna tend to hold their value due to demand, excellent schools, and proximity to D.C. Overall, Vienna’s real estate market remains robust, characterized by rising home prices, quick sales, and limited inventory. For prospective buyers and sellers, staying informed about these trends is crucial for making well-informed decisions.
Choose Old Town Alexandria – a Wealthy Suburb in the DC Area
Old Town Alexandria is one of the most charming and desirable places to live in the D.C. metro area. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, vibrant culture, or scenic waterfront, there’s something for everyone. Here are the top five reasons to call Old Town Alexandria home:
Old Town Alexandria boasts beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, and a strong sense of
history. Yet, despite its colonial roots, it offers all the modern conveniences, including trendy boutiques, top-rated restaurants, and luxury condos. Nestled along the Potomac River, Old Town offers stunning waterfront views, parks, and trails. You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or a relaxing stroll along the scenic Mount Vernon Trail. The waterfront also hosts festivals, concerts, and farmers’ markets year-round.
King Street is the heart of Old Town, lined with unique shops, independent boutiques, and an impressive array of dining options. From award-winning seafood restaurants to cozy cafés, there’s something to satisfy every palate. With its proximity to the nation’s capital, Old Town is ideal for commuters. The King Street Metro station, major highways, and water taxis provide seamless transportation options to D.C., National Harbor, and beyond.
Old Town is home to a tight-knit community with a rich arts and cultural presence. The Torpedo Factory Art Center, local theaters, and historic landmarks ensure there’s always something happening, whether it’s an art walk, holiday parade, or live music event.
Living in Old Town Alexandria offers the perfect blend of history, lifestyle, and convenience—making it one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the region. Would you consider moving here? Let’s talk about what makes it the right fit for you! If you want to see what is available to buy right now, just click here.
