Arlington, Virginia, is a city that offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern living. Located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Arlington neighborhoods provide residents with easy access to the nation's capital while maintaining a strong sense of community and identity. Known for its well-preserved historical sites, such as Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon, the city also boasts vibrant urban districts, excellent schools, and an array of parks and recreational spaces. Arlington's neighborhoods are diverse, each offering its own unique character and appeal to residents of all ages and backgrounds.
The Arlington neighborhood map is a key resource for anyone looking to explore the diverse and well-connected communities within the city. Arlington neighborhoods range from the bustling urban centers of Clarendon and Rosslyn to the more suburban, family-friendly areas like Ballston and Shirlington. The map highlights neighborhoods with higher livability scores in green, indicating those areas that offer superior amenities, safety, and overall quality of life. Neighborhoods with lower scores are marked in red, helping potential residents identify areas where challenges such as higher crime rates or fewer amenities might affect their decision to live there.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Bluemont | 7,513 | 2.3 | 86 |
| 2 | Ballston-Virginia Square | 13,585 | 1.39 | 85 |
| 3 | Cherrydale | 3,888 | 1.24 | 85 |
| 4 | Waycroft-Woodlawn | 1,733 | 0.6 | 85 |
| 5 | Yorktown | 3,515 | 1.46 | 85 |
The best Arlington neighborhoods are identified by their high livability scores, which take into account factors such as local amenities, low crime rates, and strong educational systems. These neighborhoods offer residents a balanced lifestyle with access to parks, cultural attractions, and convenient public transit options. Whether you're a young professional seeking proximity to the D.C. metro area or a family looking for a quiet, safe community with top-tier schools, the best Arlington neighborhoods provide a high quality of life and a vibrant community atmosphere.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Olde Glebe | 1,205 | 1.58 | 68 |
| 2 | Chain Bridge Forest | 221 | 0.23 | 69 |
| 3 | Rivercrest | 251 | 0.21 | 70 |
| 4 | Forest Glen | 626 | 0.13 | 70 |
| 5 | Stafford Albemarle Glebe | 378 | 0.41 | 71 |
The worst Arlington neighborhoods tend to score lower in livability due to challenges like higher crime rates, fewer amenities, and economic difficulties. These areas may face issues such as underperforming schools and limited access to community resources, making them less desirable places to live. Despite the unique appeal of each neighborhood, those classified among the worst Arlington neighborhoods often struggle with factors that impact their overall quality of life, which potential residents should consider carefully when choosing a place to live in the city.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Aurora Highlands | 14,687 | 1.98 | 80 |
| 2 | Ballston-Virginia Square | 13,585 | 1.39 | 85 |
| 3 | Radnor-Ft Myer Heights | 11,938 | 0.85 | 82 |
| 4 | Fairlington-Shirlington | 10,634 | 2.12 | 84 |
| 5 | Douglas Park | 10,273 | 1.63 | 79 |
| 6 | Clarendon-Courthouse | 9,742 | 0.63 | 83 |
| 7 | Bluemont | 7,513 | 2.3 | 86 |
| 8 | Columbia Heights West | 7,321 | 0.67 | 74 |
| 9 | Columbia Heghts | 6,804 | 1.23 | 83 |
| 10 | Buckingham | 6,495 | 0.66 | 77 |
Arlington, Virginia is a bustling suburb of Washington, D.C. This area has so much to do, and much of it at very low or no cost. The area is rich in history and is home to many treasured national memorials and the burial grounds of many honorable patriotic icons. Perhaps the most famous attraction is the Tomb of the Unknowns, honoring our lost service members. The Pentagon, Air Force and Marines Memorial’s also are located within Arlington. Aside from having such a great military presence, there is all kinds of shopping, restaurants and theaters to enjoy. Arlington is a great place for not only families, but for professionals as well, due to the areas draw of prestigious universities, government and political presence and of course many law firms call this home. Being in the “Beltway,” Arlington has a suburban feel, but also is fast paced due to the many things going on here. You’ll love Arlington as your home for many fun filled years to come.
Arlington-East Falls neighborhood is head of the class for many reasons. The diversity and unique identity of this upscale location make it a great place to call home. While Arlington is typically considered a bustling area, Arlington-East Falls has much larger homes and open space due to its lower than average population density for the area, about half the rest of the city. This professional enclave is great for families as well, as the majority of residents are married with children. While there is shopping and plenty of restaurants within quick driving distance of less than five miles, this neighborhood is primarily composed of residential neighborhoods, parks, and other community centers of interest such as places of worship and schools. Arlington-East Falls is a great place for the family, or growing family who appreciates the conveniences nearby alongside the peace and quiet of a proper suburban area.
The Ballson-Virginia Square neighborhood is an exceptional place to live. Having nearly perfect marks, it has not only excellent schools, but you’ll feel safe with one of the lowest crime rates around. As we’ve already mentioned, commuting to Washington is so easy, you can hop on the easily accessible highway and be downtown in less than 20 minutes. Ballston Common Mall is right around the corner for all your shopping needs, or maybe you’d like to grab a bite to eat at Rustico Restaurant and Bar, or maybe a study break at one of 20 coffee shops. The kids might enjoy their time away from the classroom at Kettler Captials Iceplex, or maybe a tour at the National Science Foundation. We’ll let you decide, the list goes on and on. Whatever your life commands, you will be sure to have it here in Ballston-Virginia Square, a neighborhood that you’ll love not only for it’s well deserved bragging rights, but because it’s just such a great place to call home.
Lyon Park is a great location that’s perfect for anyone. Situated along the Potomac River, the commute time is lessened, while the scenic views on your way to work are increased. Not only do you have Arlington Cemetery nearby, but so many theaters and other sites to visit, you’ll never get bored. This area is also a preferable location for anyone who wants the conveniences of Washington nearby, but doesn’t want to live right within the city. This area is diverse in real estate, so there is something practical and affordable for everyone. This area is also great to consider for investors as there is a large military population looking to rent in this area. Lyon Park has the market cornered when it comes to being well rounded. With Lyon Park as your new neighborhood, you may want to save a guest room for family and friends.