The Most Walkable Cities in Northern Virginia

The best places to live for walkability in the D.C. Metro, Virginia

As you look for the perfect place to call home, there are many factors to consider that will contribute to your quality of life and how happy you will be in your home for years to come. One factor you may not be considering is the walkability of the area you are looking at. 

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Living in a walkable neighborhood offers benefits for the neighborhood feel, property values, your household expenses and even your health. Learn more about what makes a walkable neighborhood, and which cities in Northern Virginia are the most walkable.

What is a Walk Score?

A Walk Score is a measure of how walkable your neighborhood is. Based on population density data, sidewalk access and availability of amenities such as groceries and dining, the Walk Score shows how easy it is to accomplish errands by walking. 

Why is a Walkable Neighborhood Important?

Even if you have a car, having basic amenities within walking distance has been shown to increase all measures of quality of life–most importantly, mental and physical health. Residents who live in easily walkable areas tend to be healthier, live longer, and be more engaged in arts, volunteer and civic organizations. 

Here are the top 5 most walkable cities in Northern Virginia. 

Arlington

The most walkable city in Northern Virginia, Arlington has a Walk Score of 71. Arlington has all the best features of a walkable city, including plentiful walking trails, accessible public transportation and so many amazing restaurants. On top of all that, Arlington has a low crime rate, great schools, and historical and cultural landmarks like Arlington National Cemetery.

Alexandria

Just down the Potomac from Arlington, Alexandria, Virginia is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Northern Virginia. With a walk score of 62, Alexandria is easily walkable and offers all the advantages of walkable neighborhoods. Alexandria is home to a historic downtown district, Old Town Alexandria, which features monuments, museums, parks and a wide variety of exceptional restaurants. 

Fairfax

Fairfax, Virginia is a city located in the larger Fairfax County, which is home to other great cities like Herndon, Falls Church and Vienna. Fairfax has a Walk Score of 54, and has plenty of a easily walkable neighborhoods and streets. One of the most desirable locations in Northern Virginia, Fairfax is close to everything, including great restaurants, excellent schools and parks and nature trails. The arts and culture scene is thriving in Fairfax, with two local craft breweries and over 110 museums and arts festivals held throughout the year.

Tysons Corner

A community just outside McLean, Virginia, Tysons Corner (locally known as Tysons) is a relatively small community compared to Alexandria and Arlington. What it lacks in population, it makes up for in amenities. Tysons is home to some of the largest employers in the DMV–in fact, more Fortune 500 companies are headquartered in Tysons, than in Washington, D.C. 

Tysons is also known for some of the best shopping and best restaurants in Northern Virginia. With a Walk Score of 43, you will probably want a car to get some places, but you won’t need it for walking to one of the cool local coffee shops or walking to work in one of the many businesses. 

Manassas

Right in the heart of one of the most beautiful parts of Northern Virginia, Manassas is a thriving city with plenty do around town. Manassas has a walk score of 43, similar to Tysons, but when living in Manassas, you will trade Fortune 500 companies for scenic natural landscapes and local businesses. Manassas has all the amenities of a larger city in Northern Virginia, like excellent schools, restaurants, and proximity to Washington, D.C., as well as beautiful surroundings and plenty of parks and walking trails.

Chris Colgan

EXP Realty LLC

Text me anytime - 571-437-7575

www.ChrisColgan.com