Arlington, VA

Arlington sits directly across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., blending the walkability of a major city with the neighborhood feel of a close-in suburb. Because the entire 26 square miles operates under a single county government, local services and parks are remarkably well-maintained. The area is home to iconic landmarks like the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery, but for residents, daily life revolves around its walkable transit corridors. The most famous is the Rosslyn-Ballston corridor, where five underground Metro stops connect a string of distinct urban neighborhoods.

ATTRHarrison Keely / CC BY 4.0

Along that Rosslyn-Ballston strip, modern high-rises, grocery stores, coffee shops, and rooftop restaurants cluster right around each Metro entrance. The best part is how quickly the scenery changes: walk two blocks off Wilson Boulevard and you are suddenly on a quiet, tree-lined residential street with single-family homes and neighborhood parks. Down south, Pentagon City and Crystal City create another bustling hub near Reagan National Airport. This area offers premier shopping, high-rise condos, and rapid commutes into D.C. for thousands of government and corporate employees.

ATTRDiscoA340 / CC BY-SA 4.0

The local economy is thriving, with major job hubs across defense, government agencies, consulting, and tech. Outside of the office, Arlington is a paradise for runners and cyclists thanks to an expansive network of paved trails. You can hop on the Mount Vernon Trail in Rosslyn to bike along the river with views of the D.C. skyline, or take the Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail straight out toward the Virginia countryside. The county's extensive bike paths and bus system make it surprisingly easy to get around without a car.

ATTRU.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen H. Hicks / Public domain

South Arlington's Columbia Pike has its own distinct rhythm. This three-mile corridor is one of the most culturally diverse parts of Northern Virginia, filled with authentic global restaurants, neighborhood grocery spots, and varied apartment communities. The area relies on frequent bus lines rather than a train station, but recent street improvements have added modern transit shelters, wider walkways, and new local art. With its bustling weekly farmers market, the annual Columbia Pike Blues Festival, and a strong sense of community, it remains a fantastic option for newcomers looking for character and great food.