Fairlington-Shirlington, Arlington,VA

Fairlington-Shirlington, nestled in the southeastern part of Arlington, VA, offers a charming blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience that makes it a fantastic choice for those relocating. This neighborhood is known for its beautiful garden-style apartments and townhomes, many of which date back to the World War II era but have been modernized to suit contemporary lifestyles. Residents appreciate the green spaces and tree-lined streets that create a welcoming, peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or someone looking for a tight-knit community feel, Fairlington-Shirlington provides a unique balance of tranquility and accessibility.

One of the standout attractions in this area is Shirlington Village, a lively hub filled with an eclectic mix of restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment venues. Here, you can catch a movie at the Signature Theatre, renowned for its high-quality productions and intimate setting, or enjoy a meal at one of the many local eateries offering everything from casual bites to fine dining. The neighborhood also boasts several parks and hiking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For those who love a good farmers market or community event, Shirlington hosts seasonal gatherings that foster a strong local spirit and offer plenty of opportunities to meet neighbors.

When it comes to commuting, Fairlington-Shirlington is impressively close to Downtown Washington, D.C., making it an ideal spot for those who work in the city but want to come home to a quieter environment. It's just a short drive or a quick bus ride away, with public transportation options that help ease the daily commute. Plus, the neighborhood’s proximity to major highways makes weekend getaways and day trips a breeze. Overall, Fairlington-Shirlington combines the best of both worlds—easy access to urban amenities and a welcoming community vibe—making it a wonderful place to call home in Arlington.

16% of the Fairlington-Shirlington population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 16% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Fairlington-Shirlington demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 10,443, the number of residents who reside in Fairlington-Shirlington is about average in size compared to other Arlington neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Boasting a population density of 8,580, Fairlington-Shirlington is more densely populated than many other Arlington neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 41, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Fairlington-Shirlington crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Fairlington-Shirlington, home prices come in around $486,247, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Fairlington-Shirlington can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,237, rental rates in Fairlington-Shirlington are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Fairlington-Shirlington. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Fairlington-Shirlington offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.