Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Northern Virginia, VA
Thinking of moving to Northern Virginia? With a diverse population of 2.6 million, this region offers a highly educated community, top-rated schools, and a robust job market. The area features a median home price of $635,000 and average rent of $2,100, reflecting its strong housing market. Residents enjoy low crime rates (151 violent crimes per 100K), a 34-minute average commute, and four distinct seasons with 60% sunny days. Northern Virginia is ideal for families and professionals seeking excellent education, great healthcare, and proximity to Washington, D.C.
Demographics - Northern Virginia, VA
Demographics - Northern Virginia, VA
Northern Virginia is home to 2.6 million residents, offering a vibrant mix of cultures with 28% non-English speakers and a significant Asian community at 18.5%. The median age is 37.2, and the area features a balanced gender ratio, making it attractive for both families and professionals.
Population:
2,600,000
Density:
1,650 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
28.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
52.0%
Black:
10.5%
Asian:
18.5%
Others:
19.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Northern Virginia, VA?
The cost of living in Northern Virginia is notably high, with a median home value of $635,000 and average rent at $2,100 per month, driven by a strong housing market. Utilities and transportation costs are above national averages, while state taxes range from 2.0% to 5.75%.
Median House Value:
$635,000
Gross Rent:
$2,100
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$850
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
142.0
Grocery:
117.5
Housing:
174.0
Utilities:
105.8
Transportation:
124.1
Health Care:
109.2
Miscellaneous:
112.0
Crime
Is Northern Virginia, VA a safe place to live?
Northern Virginia maintains low crime rates, with only 151 violent crimes and 1,050 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The chance of experiencing violent crime is just 1 in 662, making it a safe choice for families.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
151
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,201
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 662
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Northern Virginia, VA year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging 27–44°F and warm summers reaching 67–88°F. The region receives about 41 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 60% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
44°F
Spring
Min:
47°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The area boasts a high household income of $134,500 and low poverty and unemployment rates, reflecting strong economic stability. Most adults have at least a bachelor's degree, and the average commute is around 34 minutes, supported by public transportation options.
Median Income:
$56,000
Household Income:
$134,500
Family Income:
$148,000
Per Capita Income:
$64,000
Income Male:
$78,000
Income Female:
$62,000
Poverty Rate:
5.5%
Non English Speakers:
28.0%
Rent:
$2,100
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
10.1%
Commute Time:
33.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.9%
Bachelors or More:
59.1%
Education
How are the schools in Northern Virginia, VA?
Northern Virginia is known for its outstanding educational opportunities, offering top public and private schools as well as renowned colleges like George Mason University and Northern Virginia Community College. The region's high educational attainment contributes to a skilled and competitive workforce.
Public Schools
Name:
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Street:
6560 Braddock Rd
Phone:
703-750-8300
Students:
1,900
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Name:
Langley High School
Street:
6520 Georgetown Pike
Phone:
703-287-2700
Students:
2,000
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.8
Private Schools
Name:
The Potomac School
Street:
1301 Potomac School Rd
Phone:
703-749-6321
Students:
1,080
Colleges
Name:
George Mason University
City:
Fairfax
State:
VA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
39,000
Name:
Northern Virginia Community College
City:
Annandale
State:
VA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
75,000
Healthcare
Northern Virginia offers excellent healthcare access, featuring major hospitals like Inova Fairfax and Virginia Hospital Center. With 3.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 93% health insurance coverage, residents benefit from comprehensive medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Inova Fairfax Hospital
Address:
3300 Gallows Rd, Falls Church, VA 22042
Phone:
(703) 776-4001
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Virginia Hospital Center
Address:
1701 N George Mason Dr, Arlington, VA 22205
Phone:
(703) 558-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Northern Virginia, VA?
The housing market in Northern Virginia is robust, with a median home price of $635,000 and an average rent of $2,100 for a two-bedroom. A high owner-occupancy rate and steady appreciation indicate a strong and stable real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$635,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,100
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Northern Virginia are managed by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, with statewide access and a central office in Richmond. Residents can find comprehensive information and resources on the official DMV website.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2300 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23269
Phone:
1-804-497-7100
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.