Best areas for families around McLean? (Arlington, Reston: apartment, to rent, how much)

[eurocali]

Hello,

I am considering relocating from L.A. to Northern VA with my family. I would be working in Tysons Corner. My son is almost 3 and I would be looking for a preschool for him (and an elementary school later on). We would be renting an apartment in the beginning.

What are some good areas for families in Northern VA that would be "affordable" and within 30 minutes of Tysons Corner? I don't know if the metro goes there, but I wouldn't mind using public transportation if it is available. What should we expect in terms of rent for a 2 or 3-bed apartment? (we are used to L.A. prices...)

One more thing: we are originally from Europe and are looking for an area that offers diversity in terms of population, food, culture, etc.

Thanks in advance!

[Yankeesfan]

How much do you plan to spend on rent?

[eurocali]

I am currently spending $1,500 but I could go above if there is no choice...

[EuroExpat]

Originally Posted by eurocali

One more thing: we are originally from Europe and are looking for an area that offers diversity in terms of population, food, culture, etc.

Northern Virginia is very diverse. But I'd argue that it is segregated in a way so it will be different than living in LA. Depending where you're from originally, you might find lots of embassy people in McLean. Good luck!!

[claremarie]

Metro will not be in the Tyson's area for several years, at least. Most people commute there by car, and the traffic can be horrendous. It might take 30 minutes to travel just five miles. If you really want to stick to 30 minutes, and you're willing to rent an apartment for a year or so, you could live right in Tyson's itself. Most Tyson's residents don't have children, so your son might be wanting for playmates next door, but there are lots of parks and playgrounds in the residential areas of McLean and Vienna nearby. But you will definitely be spending more than $1500, and considerably more if you want 3 BR.

For townhouse or single family home neighborhoods, you will get a bit more for your money in Vienna than in McLean (where you will be paying for the close proximity to DC that you do not need). Schools in both communities are excellent.

[eurocali]

What about Arlington? Reston? Annandale? Falls Church? Would the commute be well over 30 minutes to/from Tysons? Are these nice areas for families?

[Denton56]

If you are looking to the future, for good schools, look at Vienna. It's right next to Tysons and has better schools than Reston, Annandale. Arlington is closer into the city so generally more expensive and you don't need to be closer in. Falls Church is close to Tysons, but something of a minefield as far as schools and neighborhoods. Some are good, some not so good.

[LogSS]

I suggest you look at the Merrifield area. It's about 3 miles commute to Tysons and there is a metro station (Dunn Lorring) however it will not take you to Tyson. You can hop on the bus instead which has direct route to Tysons. Merrifield is as closes as you can get to Tyson and you'll be paying less. I'm not saying Merrifield is cheap but a little lower and closer. Average 2 bed apt in Merrifield is 1800 (1000 sq ft, not including utilities or sometime parking)