Looking for a great neighborhood w/ a yard (schools, college)

[augy]

Girlfriend and I are moving to DC here in the next month. She will be working in the Largo area and I will be working at two sites, one North of DC and the other South. Looking for a neighborhood where our collie can stretch his legs in a backyard (tiny yard is ok!), she can feel safe when walking at night, it's relatively quiet, and there are good restaurants nearby (sushi/thai/indian - anything not a sandwhich). Metro access is nice, but not required. I'm sure this question has been asked a dozen times, but I've been searching for the last few weeks and we really have not gotten anywhere. Thanks in advance!

[PenguinSix]

What is your budget and do you want to stay in that place until schools are an issue?

[augy]

About $2k and schools and such aren't an issue.

[jm67]

Geographic considerations would suggest something in PG County, although (sadly) areas with lots of retail and dining options are scarce there. Maybe College Park, Berwyn, or Hyattsville? I'm not sure about Bowie, but that might also be a possibility (it's further out without a metro). If you can handle the commute from Virginia each day, then something near Alexandria might work. Del Ray is lovely but a bit expensive these days. On the north side Takoma Park would probably work.