Arlington vs. Falls Church: Which Is Best for Living With a Yard for Kids and Dogs?

For many Northern Virginia buyers, having a usable backyard is a must have. Whether it is a fenced yard for dogs, a safe play area for kids, or outdoor space for gardening and hosting, not all neighborhoods deliver the same type of lot sizes or green space.

Arlington and Falls Church are two of the most popular choices for buyers who want a close in location and a real yard. Here is how they compare.

TLDR

• Arlington offers walkability and close in convenience but has smaller lots

• Falls Church offers larger yards and more privacy while staying near DC

• Both areas are great for families with pets and small children

• Your decision depends on how much space you need versus how close you want to be to the city

🏡 Arlington: Walkable, Convenient, and Family Friendly

Arlington is known for its short commute to DC and its walkable neighborhoods close to parks, playgrounds, and community amenities. Many homes have smaller lot sizes compared to Falls Church, but they offer efficient yards, fenced lawns, patios, and access to dozens of dog parks and kid friendly green spaces.

Arlington is best for families who want:

• Quick access to DC

• Walkable streets and playgrounds

• Low maintenance yards

• Nearby community centers and parks

• A strong social neighborhood feel

Popular Arlington neighborhoods for usable outdoor space include Bluemont, Arlington Forest, Alcova Heights, and Yorktown.

🌳 Falls Church: Larger Yards and More Space

Falls Church is one of the top choices for families who want more land without sacrificing location. Many properties feature larger backyards, deeper lots, more privacy, and room for additions or outdoor structures like playsets or garden beds.

Falls Church is best for families who want:

• Larger yards for dogs and kids

• Quiet residential streets

• Detached homes on bigger lots

• More space for outdoor living

• A suburban feel without being far from DC

Neighborhoods like Falls Church City, Pimmit Hills, and Hillwood offer some of the most generous yard sizes within a close commute.

🐾 Outdoor Living in Both Areas

Both Arlington and Falls Church offer quick access to:

• Parks and trails

• Dog parks and off leash areas

• Playgrounds and recreation centers

• Community events and family friendly spaces

Your decision often comes down to choosing between walkable convenience with smaller yards or larger outdoor areas with a more relaxed pace.

✨ Which One Is Better?

If you prioritize yard size above everything else, Falls Church wins.
If you value walkability and a shorter commute with still usable yard space, Arlington is your match.

Both communities are excellent for families, kids, and pets, and each offers a different version of outdoor living depending on what matters most to your lifestyle.

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