If I Were Moving My Family to McLean, These Are the 5 Neighborhoods I’d Consider

Updated: November 2025
If I were moving my family to McLean, I’d consider Langley Farms, Chesterbrook Woods, Salona Village, Franklin Park, and Langley Forest. These McLean neighborhoods combine top-tier schools, large lots, and an easy D.C. commute, making them some of the most desirable places to live in Northern Virginia.

McLean is one of Northern Virginia’s most sought-after communities — known for its luxury homes, award-winning schools, and short commute to Washington, D.C. It’s where you’ll find everything from stately colonials to new-construction estates on tree-lined lots.

If I were moving my family here, these are the five neighborhoods I’d start with — each offering a distinct mix of convenience, community, and long-term value.

TLDR: Quick Snapshot

🏡 Top Picks: Langley Farms, Chesterbrook Woods, Salona Village, Franklin Park, Langley Forest
🚗 Commute: 20–25 minutes to D.C. or Tysons
🌳 Lifestyle: Suburban luxury meets everyday practicality
💰 Market: Homes typically range from $1.8M–$4M+
🎓 Community: Family-friendly, highly educated, and community-driven

1. Langley Farms

Langley Farms blends estate-style living with convenience. Just minutes from downtown McLean and the George Washington Parkway, this neighborhood offers privacy without isolation. Many homes sit on half-acre to one-acre lots, and the streets feel peaceful and established.

Vibe: Elegant, quiet, and refined
Why families love it: Large lots, newer construction, and quick D.C. access
Good to know: Expect higher price points and limited turnover — homes here are often custom-built and tightly held.

2. Chesterbrook Woods

Known for its mature trees, walkability, and friendly community feel, Chesterbrook Woods is one of McLean’s most desirable family neighborhoods. It offers a mix of updated mid-century homes and new luxury builds. Its proximity to D.C. via Chain Bridge makes it ideal for commuters.

Vibe: Family-oriented, active, and welcoming
Why families love it: Quiet streets, strong civic association, and easy city access
Good to know: Demand is high — homes often sell quickly with multiple offers.

3. Salona Village

Located in the heart of McLean, Salona Village offers the perfect blend of walkability and luxury. You can stroll to downtown McLean shops and restaurants while enjoying spacious homes on tree-lined streets. Many properties have been rebuilt or expanded with modern amenities.

Vibe: Central, upscale, and walkable
Why families love it: Proximity to parks, trails, and McLean Community Center
Good to know: The neighborhood’s location commands a premium for convenience.

4. Franklin Park

Franklin Park straddles the McLean-Arlington border and feels like a wooded retreat just minutes from the city. Homes are known for their privacy and architectural diversity — from classic Colonials to modern builds nestled in nature.

Vibe: Private, serene, and nature-filled
Why families love it: Larger lots, mature landscaping, and a peaceful atmosphere
Good to know: Some homes are on hillsides, so verify driveway access and lot grading when buying.

5. Langley Forest

Langley Forest is home to some of McLean’s most distinguished addresses. Large estate lots, custom homes, and quiet cul-de-sacs define this enclave. It’s close to both the CIA headquarters and the Potomac River, offering exclusivity with convenience.

Vibe: Prestigious, private, and timeless
Why families love it: Estate-style living and exceptional long-term investment potential
Good to know: Inventory is limited — many homes are privately listed or sold off-market.

Key Takeaways

• McLean offers unparalleled access to D.C. paired with suburban luxury.

• Neighborhoods like Chesterbrook Woods and Salona Village appeal to families seeking community and convenience.

• Langley Farms and Langley Forest deliver privacy and prestige.

• Franklin Park offers nature and serenity minutes from Arlington.

• Strong market stability and high resale demand make McLean a long-term investment favorite.

FAQs

Q: How long is the commute from McLean to D.C.?
A: About 20–25 minutes by car via the GW Parkway or Chain Bridge.

Q: What’s the average home price in McLean?
A: Most detached homes range from $1.8M to $4M+, with estates exceeding $5M.

Q: What kind of lifestyle does McLean offer?
A: A blend of upscale suburban living, top schools, and convenient access to D.C. and Tysons Corner.

Q: Are there walkable parts of McLean?
A: Yes, Salona Village and downtown McLean offer walkability to shops and parks.

Q: What makes McLean popular for families?
A: Safety, education, lot size, and community involvement — all within minutes of the city.

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Disclaimer

The Davenport Group at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty is licensed in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC. We are not permitted to provide advice or recommendations regarding schools or school districts. The information provided in this blog post has been collected from publicly available sources for general informational purposes only. Readers are encouraged to verify all details independently and conduct their own research before making any real estate or educational decisions.