Neighborhoods in Arlington, VA

10 Top Walkable Communities in Arlington, VA

Dell Jeanty

Feb 23, 2026 • 0 min read

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10 Top Walkable Communities in Arlington, VA

A Complete Guide for Buyers Who Value Lifestyle, Convenience, and Long-Term Investment

Walkability isn’t just a trend in Arlington, Virginia — it’s a defining feature of the county’s real estate market. Whether you’re commuting into Washington, DC, meeting friends for dinner, grabbing groceries without starting your car, or enjoying parks and trails steps from your front door, walkable neighborhoods consistently rank among the most desirable places to live.

Arlington’s smart growth strategy has centered around Metro corridors and mixed-use urban villages, creating vibrant communities where residents can live, work, and play within a few blocks. For buyers, that means stronger resale value, high rental demand, and a lifestyle built around convenience.

If you're considering buying a home or condo in Arlington and walkability is at the top of your list, here’s a deep dive into the 10 top walkable communities in Arlington, VA — what makes each unique, and who they’re best suited for.

1. Ballston – Modern Urban Energy

Ballston has evolved into one of Arlington’s most dynamic urban centers. Anchored by Ballston Quarter, this area offers high-rise condominiums, contemporary apartment buildings, and newer townhomes in a compact, pedestrian-friendly layout.

Residents can walk to grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops, fitness studios, co-working spaces, and the Ballston-MU Metro (Orange and Silver Lines). It’s also conveniently located near I-66, making commuting by car efficient.

Ballston appeals strongly to young professionals, investors, and buyers seeking newer buildings with amenities like rooftop pools, concierge services, and fitness centers. The walkability score is consistently high because nearly everything needed for daily life is within a few blocks.

If you want a lively atmosphere with constant activity and modern construction, Ballston is hard to beat.

2. Clarendon – Vibrant but Balanced

Clarendon is often considered the heart of Arlington’s social scene. Wilson Boulevard is lined with restaurants, wine bars, brunch spots, and boutique fitness studios. Yet just one or two blocks away, the neighborhood shifts into quiet residential streets filled with charming single-family homes and townhouses.

The Clarendon Metro Station provides access to the Orange and Silver Lines, making DC commuting seamless. Grocery stores like Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s are within walking distance, along with farmers' markets and neighborhood parks.

Clarendon attracts buyers who want nightlife and energy but still appreciate tree-lined streets and architectural character. It offers a rare blend of urban vibrancy and residential calm.

3. Courthouse – Professional and Practical

Located between Rosslyn and Clarendon, Courthouse offers walkability with a slightly more understated vibe. This neighborhood features mid-rise and high-rise condominiums alongside government offices and law firms.

The Courthouse Metro Station ensures quick access to DC. Residents can walk to restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, and movie theaters. Rocky Run Park adds green space to the area, making it appealing for those who want both city access and outdoor options.

Courthouse is popular with attorneys, federal employees, and professionals who prioritize commuting efficiency without sacrificing lifestyle.

4. Rosslyn – Urban Skyline Living

Rosslyn is Arlington’s most urban-feeling neighborhood. Directly across the Key Bridge from Georgetown, it offers dramatic skyline views and luxury high-rise living.

The Rosslyn Metro Station connects to the Orange, Silver, and Blue Lines. Residents enjoy waterfront access, Gateway Park, and easy walking access to Georgetown.

Rosslyn is ideal for buyers seeking a high-rise lifestyle with strong investment potential. With major redevelopment projects underway, including new retail and public spaces, Rosslyn continues to modernize while maintaining top-tier walkability.

5. Virginia Square – Residential with Access

Virginia Square sits comfortably between Ballston and Clarendon, offering strong Metro access with a quieter residential feel. Home to George Mason University’s Arlington campus and Arlington’s Central Library, this neighborhood blends condos, townhomes, and detached homes. Residents can walk to the Virginia Square Metro station while still enjoying peaceful streets.

Virginia Square appeals to buyers who want Metro proximity without the constant buzz of Clarendon or Ballston.

6. Pentagon City – Retail and Convenience

Pentagon City offers high-rise condo living with unmatched retail convenience. The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City provides extensive shopping, and residents are steps from Costco, Whole Foods, and other essentials.

The Pentagon City Metro (Blue and Yellow Lines) provides quick access to DC and the National Airport. This area also benefits from proximity to Amazon HQ2 and National Landing development.

Pentagon City is ideal for condo buyers who want dense walkability, modern buildings, and strong long-term appreciation potential.

7. Crystal City (National Landing) – Rapid Transformation

Crystal City has experienced major revitalization and is now part of National Landing. New restaurants, retail spaces, and green areas have dramatically enhanced walkability.

Residents can walk to Metro stations, the Mount Vernon Trail, Reagan National Airport, and numerous dining options. The area is increasingly attractive to young professionals and tech workers due to Amazon's HQ2 presence.

Crystal City offers a modern urban experience with ongoing development that supports property value growth.

8. Shirlington – Village Charm

Shirlington offers a different kind of walkability. The Village at Shirlington offers boutique shopping, local restaurants, Harris Teeter, and entertainment venues such as Signature Theatre.

The neighborhood has fewer high-rises and more townhomes and garden-style condos. It feels like a small European village tucked into Arlington.

Shirlington appeals to buyers who want walkability without the density of Ballston or Rosslyn. It’s especially popular among pet owners due to proximity to Shirlington Dog Park and trail access.

9. Westover – Community-Centered Living

Westover is one of Arlington’s most charming neighborhoods. While not as urban as Clarendon or Rosslyn, it offers local walkability to small shops, restaurants, and parks.

The Italian Store, Westover Market, and local cafes create a strong neighborhood feel. Many homes are detached single-family residences with larger lots.

Westover is ideal for buyers seeking suburban charm with convenient local amenities. Westover Village

10. Lyon Village – Historic and Walkable

Lyon Village combines historic architecture with Metro accessibility. Located near Clarendon and Courthouse, residents can walk to shopping and dining while living in a traditional neighborhood setting.

This area is known for its older homes with character, brick sidewalks, and mature trees. It appeals to buyers looking for long-term stability and architectural charm.

Why Walkable Communities Hold Strong Value in Arlington

Walkable neighborhoods tend to outperform car-dependent areas in both appreciation and resale speed. Buyers consistently prioritize:

Metro access
Grocery stores within walking distance
Restaurant and nightlife proximity
Parks and trail systems
Reduced commuting stress

Arlington’s development model has intentionally concentrated growth along transit corridors, making these communities highly resilient even during market shifts.

Properties near Metro stations often command premium pricing, and rental demand remains strong in walkable zones.

Frequently Asked Questions About Walkable Communities in Arlington, VA

What is the most walkable neighborhood in Arlington, VA?

Ballston and Clarendon consistently rank among the most walkable neighborhoods in Arlington due to their dense retail, dining, and grocery options, and their direct Metro access. Rosslyn and Pentagon City also score very high due to their transit connectivity and mixed-use development.

However, the “most walkable” depends on your lifestyle preferences. Some buyers prefer urban density (Ballston), while others prefer a village feel (Shirlington).

Are walkable neighborhoods in Arlington more expensive?

Yes, properties in walkable neighborhoods often command higher price points due to demand. Homes and condos near Metro stations and commercial corridors typically sell at a premium compared to more car-dependent areas.

That said, walkability can also translate into stronger long-term appreciation and easier resale.

Which Arlington neighborhood is best for commuting to DC?

Rosslyn, Courthouse, and Clarendon are among the best for DC commuters because of direct access to the Orange and Silver Metro Lines. Pentagon City and Crystal City are excellent options for those working in DC or near National Landing due to Blue and Yellow Line access.

Is Arlington more walkable than Alexandria or Fairfax?

Arlington County generally offers higher walkability scores than Fairfax County due to its Metro-corridor-focused planning. Certain parts of Alexandria (like Old Town) are highly walkable, but overall Arlington’s concentration of mixed-use communities provides more consistent pedestrian accessibility.

Are walkable neighborhoods good for families?

Yes, but the experience varies by neighborhood. Lyon Village, Westover, and Virginia Square tend to appeal more to families because of their quieter residential streets. Clarendon and Ballston may feel more urban, but they still offer access to parks and highly rated schools.

Do walkable communities have strong resale value?

Historically, yes. Walkability, transit access, and proximity to amenities are major drivers of property value stability in Arlington. Even during slower markets, Metro-adjacent properties tend to sell faster than less accessible homes.

What types of homes are available in walkable Arlington neighborhoods?

You’ll find a wide range of housing options:

Luxury high-rise condominiums (Rosslyn, Pentagon City, Ballston)
Mid-rise condos (Courthouse, Virginia Square)
Townhomes (Shirlington, Clarendon area)
Single-family homes (Lyon Village, Westover)

The diversity of housing makes Arlington attractive to first-time buyers, move-up buyers, and investors alike.

Is it worth paying more to live near the Metro?

For many buyers, yes. Living within walking distance of Metro provides daily convenience, reduces commuting stress, and often enhances resale value. Even buyers who drive benefit from strong rental demand when near transit corridors.

What is the quietest walkable neighborhood in Arlington?

Virginia Square, Westover, and Lyon Village tend to offer a quieter residential atmosphere while still maintaining proximity to shops and Metro access.