Best Locations to Live & Commute to Washington, DC
One of the first things most people think about when considering a move is the location. Is it a nice place to live? Will I find work opportunities? Is it family-friendly? Are there good schools? What is the commute like? At Dream Finders Homes, we believe that the Washington, D.C. area has the potential to meet your “wish list”.
Once you decide that living near the Nation’s Capital is for you, we’ve got the perfect homes to match this historic location. If you’re on the fence about moving, here are some highlights of relocating to Virginia or Maryland.
Northern Virginia: A Popular Choice for D.C. Professionals
For many professionals working in Washington, D.C., the home search leads just across the Potomac River to Northern Virginia. Offering a balance of convenience, affordability, and quality of life, this region has long been a top choice for those who want access to the nation's capital without the challenges of city living. From vibrant Arlington and Alexandria to the suburban charm of Fairfax and Loudoun counties, Northern Virginia checks all the boxes for professionals commuting to D.C.
Arlington, VA
Arlington is a perennially popular suburb. It’s vibrant, walkable, and close to the Metro. (It’s also on the pricier side when it comes to housing options.)
Driving: 15-25 minutes | Metro: 10-20 minutes
Alexandria, VA
This welcoming city is convenient to D.C. while boasting a strong identity of its own, including historic charm and modern amenities.
Driving: 20-35 minutes | Metro: 15-30 minutes
Fairfax, VA
Over 200 years old, Fairfax is so family-friendly, with top schools, spacious homes, and beautiful trees and parks.
Driving: 30-45 minutes | Metro (Vienna/Fairfax-GMU Station): 35-50 minutes
Reston, VA
Reston was planned as a community where people wouldn’t need to travel far for anything. Today, it is a growing tech hub with easy Metro access.
Driving: 35-50 minutes | Metro (Wiehle-Reston East Station): 40-55 minutes
Coming Soon! Sunset Station will offer luxury townhomes & condos with 10-foot ceilings, rooftop terraces, and open floorplans. It’s located near Reston Station, Tysons Corner, and Dulles Airport. Walk to shopping and dining, plus trails and green spaces.
Manassas, VA
Manassas has a charming historic district, picturesque neighborhoods, and quiet, tree-lined streets. It offers affordable homes with a strong sense of community.
Driving: 50-70 minutes | VRE Train (Manassas Station): 60-75 minutes
Leesburg, VA
This scenic suburb offers a laid-back atmosphere replete with restaurants and recreation, wineries and historic charm, and an expanding tech infrastructure.
Driving: 55-75 minutes | No direct Metro/VRE access
LAST CHANCE! Potomac Station Marketplace is a townhome and townhome-style condominium community. It is just minutes from Downtown Leesburg for an easy commute to Reston, Tysons Corner, Route 28, and the Dulles Toll Road. Homes start at $699,990.
Maryland Suburbs: Affordable and Accessible
Another answer to the question “where do people who work in D.C. live?” is the Maryland suburbs. This area offers a perfect balance of affordability, accessibility, and quality of life. Many professionals working in D.C. enjoy convenient commutes, excellent schools, and various recreational and cultural amenities. Maryland’s suburbs provide diverse options for homebuyers seeking both value and convenience.
Bethesda, MD
Highly sought-after Bethesda combines big-city amenities (great restaurants and nightlife) with a more suburban, cozy feel (parks & green space).
Driving: 20-35 minutes | Metro (Bethesda Station): 15-30 minutes
Rockville, MD
Ranked as one of the best cities in the country for families, Rockville offers a diverse population, a strong job market, and easy Metro access.
Driving: 35-50 minutes | Metro (Rockville Station): 30-45 minutes
Damascus, MD
This charming town in Montgomery County is known for its rural charm and suburban convenience. Its hometown feel offers a family-friendly atmosphere, access to outdoor recreation, top-rated schools, and spacious homes.
Driving: 50-60 minutes | Train/Metro (Shady Grove Metro Station): 60-75 minutes
Damascus Village, a stunning new community with award-winning maintenance-free townhomes, offers a home to fit every lifestyle. Community highlights include an open play area, a picnic area, and walking trails. Homes start at $569,990.
Reserve at Damascus is a brand-new townhome community featuring luxurious, maintenance-free townhomes in a prime location. The community's award-winning floorplans received the GALA Awards of Merit for Best Design and Architecture. Homes start at $585,990.
Waldorf, MD
Waldorf is a growing community with easy access to everything. With plenty of new housing opportunities and modern amenities, it is a popular choice for commuters looking for affordability.
Driving: 45-60 minutes | Train/Metro (Branch Ave Metro Station): 55-75 minutes
Scotland Heights offers single-family homes and townhomes that are perfect for young professionals and growing families. Just off of Berry Road and Route 301, it is minutes from shopping and dining at the St. Charles Towne Center or Manokeek Village Center.
Townhomes start at $444,990. Single-Family Homes start at $584,990.
Spring Haven
Spring Haven by Dream Finders Homes offers townhome-style condominiums and single-family homes designed for modern, low-maintenance living. Located near Berry Road and Route 301, it's close to shopping and dining at St. Charles Towne Center and Manokeek Village Center, making it ideal for young professionals and families. Townhomes start at $444,990. Single-Family Homes start at $584,990.
Laurel, MD
Laurel blends suburban charm with easy access to Washington, D.C., offering a welcoming community atmosphere and excellent amenities. It’s perfect for families and young professionals who value convenience, affordability, and outdoor spaces. Driving: 35-45 minutes | Metro (Greenbelt Station): 25-35 minutes
Montpelier Highlands by Dream Finders Homes features townhome-style condominiums designed for low-maintenance living. Located just minutes from the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, the community offers easy access to shopping, dining, parks, and excellent schools. Homes start at $499,990.
Commuting to D.C.: What to Expect
The biggest challenge to living in the Washington, D.C. area is the commute. In many areas, taking public transit is faster, cheaper, and less stressful. However, many people still prefer to drive. You’ll need to determine what makes the most sense for your needs.
Public Transit Options: Explore Metro, MARC Train, and VRE options for a stress-free commute.
Rush Hour: Rush hour lasts from approximately 6 to 9 a.m. and from 4 to 7 p.m. During rush hour, it’s best to avoid I-95 and I-70 completely. Highways such as the 295, 395, 495, and 270 are alternatives.
Cost Comparison: The cost differences between driving and using public transit can be significant. Driving in DC can be expensive due to parking, fuel, and toll costs. Metrorail and Metrobus, MARC, VRE, scooter and bikes are significantly cheaper than driving.
Finding the Perfect New Home Near Washington D.C.
If you’re considering a move to this bustling region, consider buying a Dream Finders Home in one of our unique communities in Northern Virginia or Maryland. Connect with us today and find your perfect new home near Washington, D.C. Start enjoying the small-town charm and big-city adventures that so many others are already experiencing here.
Categories: Blog, Washington DC