Moving to Arlington - Columbia Pike? (McLean, Manassas: apartment, crime, home)

[msimm07]

I've recently graduated from college and accepted a job in McLean, right by Tyson's Corner.

I currently live at home in Manassas, and there isn't any huge rush to move out, but the commute to McLean is obviously less than desirable (to say the least) and I'd like to live a lot closer to work. Also, I'd like to be closer to Clarendon, D.C. and other young professionals.

Ideally, I'd like to spend less than $1700 on a studio or one bedroom. I visited a very nice building on Columbia Pike a couple of days ago (called 55 Hundred). I absolutely love the complex and the apartment, and it fits nicely within my budget. However, from what I've gathered from word of mouth and various threads, living anywhere west of Glebe Road seems to be unsafe? The area certainly isn't as "polished" as the east end of Columbia pike, but I haven't gotten the vibe that it's dangerous. I guess that I'm just looking for a few opinions and any more general advice as to moving to the area.

I'm also considering the northern portion of Arlington, so I'm not really set on location yet. Just looking for some tips and suggestions!

Thanks!

[cdmurphy]

I think it's super-convenient. I used to live on South Frederick, and I never felt unsafe, although I would watch out for property crime (theft from vehicles, etc.) just like anywhere else. So much good shopping - I wish Trader Joe's had been open when I lived there.

[brooklynborndad]

thats right near baileys, right? - I wouldn't call that dangerous, though it won't be as much fun as closer in (but an easier drive to Tysons - and you even have a bus option when you want it).

some did a thread on safety in seven corners culmore - you might want to take a look at that.

[Carlingtonian]

Congrats on the job!

The post cited above is this one: http://www.city-data.com/forum/north...dangerous.html

The Cliffs Notes version: That area is still heavily low-income (mostly Latino). I take it from your forum handle that you're a woman. I wouldn't advise you to walk around there late at night by yourself. But during the day, you'd be fine. Plus, the area will only continue to be gentrified. Use common sense, practice good situational awareness--do NOT walk around with your nose buried in your iPhone--and you'll be as safe as anyone.

[Mike10]

What is your salary? I feel like you can afford more bang for your buck.

[msimm07]

Originally Posted by Carlingtonian

Congrats on the job!

The post cited above is this one: http://www.city-data.com/forum/north...dangerous.html

The Cliffs Notes version: That area is still heavily low-income (mostly Latino). I take it from your forum handle that you're a woman. I wouldn't advise you to walk around there late at night by yourself. But during the day, you'd be fine. Plus, the area will only continue to be gentrified. Use common sense, practice good situational awareness--do NOT walk around with your nose buried in your iPhone--and you'll be as safe as anyone.

Haha, not a woman, but good advice nonetheless!

Originally Posted by Mike10

What is your salary? I feel like you can afford more bang for your buck.

My salary is $60,000. I said earlier that I'd like to spend under $1,700, but I think even that'd be on the high end.

[Carlingtonian]

Originally Posted by msimm07

Haha, not a woman, but good advice nonetheless!

Doh! Sorry. I thought you were Ms. Imm, rather than M.S. Imm or whatever your name is. Anyway--glad to help and good luck!

[boyd888]

I used to live right there on south jefferson st. The area is fine, but as has been said it is heavy latino especially as you head further east down Columbia Pike. The area on the other side of Columbia Pike (the northern side) is somewhat sketchy.

For safety the area is the fine as the most common crime is theft from parked vehicles. I don't know what 55 hundred is rentwise these days, but the two wildwood buildings next to it are under $1400 with utilities included.