Living in the heart of D.C. is pretty nice—it’s a fact! You partake of the rich history, bustling economy, and vibrant culture of the nation’s capital.
But sometimes, you might crave a little more breathing room, especially when you have to put your bank balance into consideration. With pricey real estate and constantly living on the grind, life in D.C. tends to cut deep into your pockets.
However, if you’ve decided that living in the heart of D.C. is not for you and you have found an excellent job opportunity in the district, there is a perfect compromise for you.
Let’s help you explore the five best cities to live near D.C. as a cool neighbor.
Quick Overview
- Rockville, MD — Most Family-friendly Area
- Arlington, VA — Most Urban and Closest to DC
- Bethesda, MD — Most Affluent Area
- Silver Spring, MD — Most Diverse Town
- Fairfax, VA — Most Historically Relevant
1. Rockville, Maryland
You may know Maryland for its blue crabs and as a popular location for port trading. But the upbeat town of Rockville has attracted many people over the past three years.
Why? Its top-rated schools and the palpable sense of community make it a prime spot for families. For example, the district school quality rating is better than 84% of all Maryland schools.
Above all, its proximity to D.C. is a major attraction that keeps the moving company Rockville busy year-round as people flock to this town. Also, the seamless commute to D.C.’s major employment hubs is a huge draw, especially for professionals seeking to balance high-powered careers with a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle.
Rockville offers an abundance of parks, trails, and recreational facilities. As a melting pot of cultures, it reflects in its diverse culinary scene and cultural festivals. Moreso, if you want to get a lay of the land, its proximity to Washington Metro’s Red Line meets its public transportation needs.
- Population: 67,117
- Distance From DC: 18 miles
- Average Rent: $2,226
- Median Home Value: $500,500
- Median Household Income: $122,470
2. Arlington, Virginia
One of the best cities to live near D.C. is Arlington.
The city is only a short metro ride away from downtown D.C. Such proximity makes it ideal for commuters who want to enjoy city life without living there. Moreover, while in the city, the mean commute time is only 29 minutes.
Arlington puts you right across the Potomac from the National Mall, with Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon just a stone’s throw away. If you are a history buff, this Virginia city is the right type of haven.
But if your style is more of a shopper’s paradise, then the Pentagon City and Clarendon neighborhoods will embrace you with numerous options. Plus, weekend getaways are a breeze with easy access to Reagan National Airport.
Although housing costs are slightly up, about 42% of residents own their homes. If it’s any compensation, you get unlimited access to miles of trails along the Potomac River making it worthwhile for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy running, cycling, or kayaking.
- Population: 238,643
- Distance From DC: 5.1 miles
- Average Rent: $2,548
- Median Home Value: $752,500
- Median Household Income: $137,387
3. Bethesda, Maryland
If you are a retiree looking for the best places to live near D.C., look no further than the sophisticated Bethesda.
Maryland boasts upscale shops, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a thriving arts scene—all thanks to the urban town of Bethesda. Less than 4% of residents here live below the poverty level, establishing its place as an affluent area.
Approximately 98% of residents have completed high school, making it a community with one of the most educated people.
As a favorite to retirees, essentials like healthcare are not overlooked. Home to many medical professionals, thanks to the presence of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and the National Institute of Health (NIH).
In case you are wondering if this is where it ends, it is not. Bethesda is safe and walkable, placing it among the top pleasant places to live and explore on foot.
Crime is at an all-time low, with only a 1 in 516 chance of falling victim to violent crime, more than double the odds better than the state average.
- Population: 68,056
- Distance From DC: 7 miles
- Average Rent: $2,715
- Median Home Value: $1.4 million
- Median Household Income: $185,546
4. Silver Spring, Maryland
North of D.C., you will find the vibrant and dynamic town of Silver Spring in Maryland. While Bethesda is great for retirees and families, Silver Spring is a fertile soil for young professionals.
If you love a diverse community, this Maryland town is for you—diversity gets celebrated here. It is evident in its food scene and the many international festivals.
For instance, the Fillmore Silver Spring, a legendary music venue, has brought in iconic acts for decades. The AFI Silver Theatre hosts a range of concerts, film festivals, and live performances, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
One other advantage that places Silver Spring up there among the top areas near D.C. is its relative affordability. A greater 62% of the residents here rent their homes, but compared to its neighbors, Silver Spring offers more affordable housing options without sacrificing quality of life.
With numerous parks and the nearby Sligo Creek Trail, Silver Spring provides plenty of outdoor recreation and relaxation opportunities.
- Population: 81,015
- Distance From DC: 6.1 miles
- Average Rent: $1,939
- Median Home Value: $503,100
- Median Household Income: $95,213
5. Fairfax, Virginia
Many towns near D.C. often lose their identity as extensions of the nation’s capital. However, a few unique places, like the suburb of Fairfax in Virginia, beg exception from this category.
Anyone who knows Fairfax cannot deny it’s steeped in history, with landmarks such as the Fairfax Courthouse and the Historic Blenheim estate. The assembly of these iconic places gets history buffs to feel right at home.
Fairfax offers a range of community amenities, including shopping centers, dining options, and recreational facilities. All of these ensure residents have everything they need within reach.
Life here combines the advantages of most places close to D.C. The city has top-notch schools, making it a great place for families. In education, Fairfax’s district school quality ratings are better than 76.2% of all U.S. school districts.
Moreover, this town is a good spot for retirees with plenty of activities available to keep these senior citizens occupied. Young professionals aren’t left out either. They equally benefit from its strong local economy and a variety of job opportunities.
- Population: 24,146
- Distance From DC: 19 miles
- Average Rent: $2,259
- Median Home Value: $737,500
- Median Household Income: $128,708
Bottom Line—Your Ideal DC Neighbor
For anyone considering a move from the nation’s capital, whether for work, education, or lifestyle change, the best cities to live near D.C. are sought-after destinations by new residents.
Their strategic positions and relatively low commute times to D.C. attract those who seek to strike a balance between suburban peace and urban convenience.
You could choose Rockville for its family-friendly atmosphere, Arlington for its urban vibes, or Bethesda for its upscale living. On the other hand, Silver Spring shines in its bustling diversity while Fairfax takes the cake for its historical charm.
What you should remember is that each town provides a unique and enriching lifestyle allowing you to pursue your DC-based interest without sacrificing your comfort or living beyond your means.
