A Guide to Arlington for First-Time Movers

So you’re moving to the DC Metro,new job, new school, new skyline out your window. First of all, deep breath. It’s a lot. But Arlington? Arlington makes that leap way less intimidating.If this is your first time relocating to the region, chances are your Google history looks something like: “best DC suburbs,” “short-term leases near DC,” “how bad is the Metro really?” Been there. It’s normal.This guide breaks it all down. We’ll walk you through the vibes of different Arlington neighborhoods, what the rent’s like, how long the commute really takes, and why so many first-timers go the furnished apartment route (hint: less stress, more freedom). By the end, you’ll know whether Arlington fits your rhythm,and how to make the move smoother than your third cup of cold brew.

Why Arlington is a Top Choice for DC Metro Movers

Ask five longtime DC nomads where they wish they’d landed first, and three will say Arlington. It’s not just the proximity to the nation’s capital,though shaving 30+ minutes off a rush-hour commute isn’t nothing. It’s that Arlington, Virginia checks off boxes that folks relocating to the Washington, DC metro area actually care about.First, location. Arlington sits right across the river, with direct access to downtown via the Orange, Blue, and Silver Metro lines,not to mention I-66 and Route 50. Translation: you can work in Foggy Bottom, Dupont Circle, or Capitol Hill and still make it home in time for dinner. Or happy hour.Second, lifestyle. Arlington’s blend of urban buzz and suburban calm means you’ll find buzzy cocktail spots and yoga studios just blocks from quiet parks and farmers markets. Neighborhoods like Clarendon and Ballston hum with energy, while pockets like Shirlington or Lyon Village offer peace and greenery.Third, livability. The public schools here are top-tier,Arlington Public Schools consistently ranks among Virginia’s best. Streets are walkable. Crime’s relatively low. And the vibe? Welcoming. Whether you’re a Hill staffer, remote techie, international student, or relocating family, there’s a place here that fits.That’s why Arlington consistently ranks among the best places to live near DC. It’s a commuter’s dream, but also a community you’ll actually want to come home to.

Overview of Arlington Neighborhoods

Arlington may be compact, but each neighborhood has its own flavor. Here’s a fast breakdown to help you figure out where to land:

Clarendon & Courthouse

• Lively, walkable, packed with bars and brunch spots

• Popular with young professionals and recent grads

• Direct access to Orange Line Metro

Rosslyn

• Skyscrapers, offices, and Potomac River views

• Closest to Georgetown via Key Bridge

• Great for business travelers and diplomatic staff

Ballston & Virginia Square

• Home to Ballston Quarter, tech startups, and parks

• Balanced mix of urban living and community vibe

• Families, remote workers, and grad students feel at home

Pentagon City & Crystal City (National Landing)

• Rapid growth area with Amazon HQ2

• Walkable to Reagan Airport, Blue/Yellow Metro lines

• Sleek high-rises and modern amenities

Shirlington & Columbia Pike

• More residential, diverse, and budget-friendly

• Dog parks, local theaters, and international eats

• Less Metro access, more space and charm

From buzzy rooftops to quiet tree-lined blocks, living in Arlington, Virginia is all about finding your rhythm,and your ideal commute.

What to Expect When Living in Arlington

Relocating to Arlington isn’t just about finding the right apartment,it’s about knowing what daily life looks like once the moving truck drives off.

Cost of Living

• Not cheap, but still often more affordable than central DC.

• Expect to pay:
  • Studios: $1,700–$2,200/month

  • 1BRs: $2,200–$2,900/month

  • 2BRs: $2,800–$3,800/month

• Columbia Pike and Shirlington = better deals

• Clarendon, Ballston = higher-end, newer buildings

Tip: Don’t forget add-ons like parking, utilities, and transit passes. And yep, groceries at Whole Foods in Clarendon will cost more than Aldi on King Street.

Transportation & Commute

• Metro access is a game-changer,Orange, Blue, Silver, and Yellow Lines all stop in Arlington

• Many residents ditch the car entirely; others rely on Zipcar or bikes

• Average commute to DC: 25–40 mins, depending on line and time

• Bus routes (ART + WMATA), scooters, and Capital Bikeshare add flexibility

Lifestyle & Culture

• Parks, trails, and weekend events keep things active

• Community favorites: Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse, Lubber Run concerts, farmers markets in Courthouse

• Strong library system, museums like DEA and Arlington History

• Culturally diverse with food to match,pho, pupusas, poke, you name it

Living in Arlington, VA means you’re close to the capital,but with a lifestyle that feels far more laid-back.

Finding Housing in Arlington

Looking for housing in Arlington can feel like speed dating,so many options, so little time. Here’s what first-time movers should know before signing that lease (or mortgage).

Renters vs. Buyers

• Renters dominate here, especially near Metro corridors

• Popular housing types:
  • High-rise apartments in Ballston, Rosslyn

  • Garden-style complexes in Columbia Pike

  • Townhomes and condos sprinkled throughout

• If you’re considering buying, expect median prices around $750K+,but that varies wildly by neighborhood

Tip: Long leases aren’t your only option. Arlington has a growing market of short-term and flexible housing, perfect for relocators figuring things out.

The Appeal of Furnished Apartments

• Saves time, stress, and a trip to IKEA

• Great for:
  • Remote workers who bounce between cities

  • Corporate relocators on assignment

  • Students in transition

• No need to set up Wi-Fi, haul furniture, or measure curtain rods,it’s all there, ready on day one

Why Consider Blueground Furnished Apartments in Arlington

• Fully furnished rentals in Rosslyn, Ballston, Clarendon, and Pentagon City

• Lease terms start at 30 days, with utilities, Wi-Fi, and even artwork included

• Ideal for people who want to feel “settled” without the usual chaos of settling in

Looking for a stress-free move? Blueground’s furnished apartments in Arlington provide flexible leases, premium furniture, and prime locations across the city.

Pros & Cons of Living in Arlington

Living in Arlington, Virginia comes with real advantages,but it’s not without its trade-offs. If you’re still on the fence, this side-by-side might help you land.

For most first-time movers, especially those relocating to the DC Metro area for work or school, the upsides tip the scale. Arlington offers the structure and ease you need to hit the ground running,without sacrificing personality.And if flexibility’s high on your list? Choosing a furnished apartment in Arlington can help you test-drive life here before going all in.

Finally, Is Arlington Right for You?

If you’re staring down a relocation to the DC Metro, Arlington might just be the smartest place to land. It’s close enough to the action without being swallowed by it,offering a rare blend of practicality and personality.Professionals appreciate the fast Metro rides and polished apartment buildings. Families love the strong school options and clean parks. Even solo newcomers find their groove quickly, thanks to the county’s walkability and low-friction lifestyle.But what really sets living in Arlington, Virginia apart? Flexibility. You can test the waters in Clarendon, then try Ballston next year. Sign a 12-month lease,or go short-term if you’re just figuring things out. And with furnished apartments in Arlington VA, you can skip the U-Haul stress and start fresh with just a suitcase.Whether you’re coming for work, grad school, a federal gig, or a total life reset, Arlington gives you room to breathe while staying plugged in.Bottom line? If you want city access, suburban ease, and a soft landing in one of the most connected corners of Northern Virginia, Arlington’s ready when you are.