Moving From DC to Northern Virginia Part 2: Top 3 Places If You Are Looking for Affordability

Affordability is one of the biggest motivators for DC renters looking to move across the river into Northern Virginia. Compared to the city’s rising rents and limited inventory, several NOVA communities offer more space, lower housing costs, and better long term value.

Part 1 covered Arlington, McLean, and Vienna for families prioritizing education related factors.
Part 2 focuses on affordable living for renters, single income buyers, and first time buyers.

TLDR

• Falls Church, Alexandria West, and Fairfax City offer some of the strongest affordability near DC

• These areas provide lower average housing costs and more space than many close in options

• All three communities give easy commuting access into DC

• Perfect for single income earners, first time buyers, and value focused movers

🌳 1. Falls Church (City and Falls Church Area)

Falls Church is one of the best affordability plays in close in Northern Virginia. While Falls Church City can be pricey, the surrounding Falls Church area on the Arlington border offers a wide range of condos, townhomes, and older single family homes that cost significantly less than comparable Arlington or DC properties.

Why it is affordable:

• More condos and earlier built homes

• Lower price per square foot than Arlington

• Strong commuting access to DC, Tysons, and I 66

Best for:
Buyers who want close in convenience without Arlington level pricing.

🌿 2. Alexandria West

Alexandria West consistently delivers strong value for buyers and renters leaving DC. With a large concentration of mid rise condos and townhomes, it offers lower monthly payments while keeping you near Arlington, Shirlington, and I 395.

Why it is affordable:

• Lower average housing costs

• Many condo communities priced well below Arlington

• Good space to price ratio

Best for:
Commuters who want more space while staying close to the city.

🏙️ 3. Fairfax City

Fairfax City blends affordability with spacious living. Buyers find larger townhomes, condos, and single family homes at prices far lower than Arlington or locations closer to DC. Proximity to the Vienna Metro and I 66 is a major perk for DC commuting.

Why it is affordable:

• Larger inventory of older homes

• Lower prices for bigger floor plans

• Competitive condo and townhome options

Best for:
First time buyers and families wanting more space for their budget.

✨ Final Thoughts

If affordability is your top priority, Falls Church, Alexandria West, and Fairfax City offer some of the best value in Northern Virginia while remaining within a reasonable commute of DC. These communities give you more space, more options, and lower monthly costs without having to move too far from the city.

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