Arlington, Virginia, a thriving community just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., offers the perfect blend of suburban comfort and urban sophistication. With a rich history, excellent amenities, and a strong sense of community, Arlington consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Whether you're a young professional, a family, or someone looking for a quieter place with easy access to a major city, Arlington has a lot to offer. Here’s a closer look at what makes Arlington such a special place to call home.
Proximity to Washington, D.C. Arlington's prime location just minutes from the nation's capital provides unparalleled access to the cultural, historical, and career opportunities of D.C. Commuters can easily reach the city via the Metro, making it a popular choice for professionals working in government, international organizations, or tech industries. Plus, it's just a short drive to iconic sites like the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and Smithsonian museums.
Arlington National Cemetery One of Arlington’s most notable landmarks is the Arlington National Cemetery, a place of reflection and national pride. This historic cemetery is the resting place of soldiers and dignitaries, including John F. Kennedy. It’s also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is visited by people from all over the world.
Diverse Dining and Shopping Options Arlington boasts a vibrant dining scene with restaurants offering everything from casual bites to fine dining experiences. In neighborhoods like Clarendon and Ballston, you’ll find an exciting mix of cafes, breweries, and international cuisine. Shopping in Arlington is also a treat, with The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City and local boutiques providing plenty of retail therapy options.
Beautiful Parks and Outdoor Spaces For nature lovers, Arlington has an abundance of green spaces and parks. The Mount Vernon Trail offers stunning views along the Potomac River, perfect for biking, jogging, or walking. There’s also Theodore Roosevelt Island, a wooded oasis ideal for hiking and enjoying nature. Arlington’s dedication to maintaining its parks means residents can easily escape the urban hustle for some fresh air and exercise.
Top-Notch Schools and Universities Arlington is home to some of the best public schools in Virginia, making it an excellent place for families. It also has a variety of private schools and is close to prestigious universities like Georgetown and George Washington, providing great educational opportunities for students of all ages.
High Quality of Life Arlington consistently ranks high for quality of life due to its safety, amenities, and access to services. The county’s public services, healthcare, and transportation systems are well-managed and contribute to a comfortable living experience. The robust public transportation options, including buses and the Metro, make getting around without a car easy.
Thriving Job Market With its close proximity to Washington, D.C., Arlington has a strong job market, especially in sectors like government, defense, technology, and healthcare. It’s a hub for federal contractors, think tanks, and tech startups. The region’s economy is resilient and continues to attract top talent.
Walkable, Connected Neighborhoods Arlington is known for its walkable neighborhoods. Areas like Rosslyn, Courthouse, and Crystal City offer everything from shopping and dining to fitness centers and green spaces, all within walking distance. This sense of community and accessibility adds to Arlington’s appeal for professionals, families, and retirees alike.
Cultural and Community Events Throughout the year, Arlington hosts a variety of cultural and community events. From farmers markets to art festivals and outdoor concerts, there's always something happening that brings neighbors together. Additionally, its proximity to D.C. means residents have front-row access to major national events and celebrations.
Excellent Public Transportation The Washington Metro system extends through Arlington, making it easy to get to Washington, D.C., and other parts of Northern Virginia without a car. The Arlington Transit (ART) bus service and Capital Bikeshare also add to the city’s convenient transportation options.
Arlington, Virginia, is a progressive and inclusive community with a variety of resources to support the LGBTQ+ population. Whether you're seeking support groups, health services, advocacy organizations, or social networks, Arlington has a range of offerings.
Here are some key LGBTQ+ resources in Arlington:
Website: NOVA Pride NOVA Pride serves the Northern Virginia LGBTQ+ community, including Arlington. This organization provides social events, educational programs, and advocacy to promote equality and support the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals. They organize events such as Pride celebrations, mixers, and other community-building activities.
Website: AGLA AGLA is a local nonprofit organization that focuses on advocating for equality, inclusivity, and community building for LGBTQ+ people in Arlington and nearby areas. They host a variety of events, including happy hours, volunteer opportunities, and advocacy efforts. AGLA also promotes civic engagement and works with Arlington County on LGBTQ+ policies.
Website: The Trevor Project While a national organization, The Trevor Project offers a wide range of online and phone-based support for LGBTQ+ youth in Arlington and beyond. They provide a 24/7 crisis helpline and resources for mental health, suicide prevention, and general LGBTQ+ youth support.
Website: Whitman-Walker Health Located nearby in Washington, D.C., Whitman-Walker Health serves the entire D.C. metro area, including Arlington. They offer comprehensive healthcare services focused on the LGBTQ+ community, including primary care, mental health, gender-affirming care, HIV testing and prevention, and legal services.
Website: PFLAG DC Metro PFLAG offers support for families, allies, and LGBTQ+ individuals across the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, including Arlington. They provide peer support groups specifically for transgender and gender-diverse people, as well as educational resources and advocacy to help create a more inclusive environment.
Website: Arlington County LGBTQ+ Resources Arlington County has a variety of services and initiatives aimed at creating an inclusive community. This includes working with local organizations and advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ residents. Their website provides information on policies, services, and upcoming events supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
Website: The DC Center The DC Center is a comprehensive LGBTQ+ community center located just across the river in Washington, D.C. It offers programs and services such as support groups, HIV prevention, mental health services, and arts programs. It’s an accessible resource for Arlington residents seeking broader community connections.
Website: Equality Virginia Equality Virginia is a statewide organization advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals across the Commonwealth. They work on legislative initiatives to ensure equal treatment and provide resources for both individuals and organizations working toward greater LGBTQ+ inclusivity in Virginia.
Website: Capital Pride Alliance Capital Pride organizes the annual Capital Pride Festival, a huge event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in the D.C. metro area, which includes Arlington. The organization also provides year-round resources, including volunteer opportunities and partnerships with local organizations.
Many religious communities in Arlington welcome LGBTQ+ members. For example, Clarendon Presbyterian Church is a known LGBTQ+ affirming congregation that actively promotes inclusivity in their services and activities.
Arlington, Virginia, offers a balanced lifestyle where residents can enjoy suburban tranquility while staying connected to the energy of a major city. With excellent schools, thriving career opportunities, and plenty of green spaces, it’s no surprise that Arlington is one of the most sought-after places to live in the D.C. metro area. Whether you’re raising a family, advancing your career, or looking for a vibrant community to join, Arlington provides an exceptional quality of life and endless opportunities for enrichment.
