Where to live when one spouse works in DC and one in Tysons (Arlington: established neighborhood)

[atlyoungin]

I know there are a ton of messages on here about commuting in the area...I've searched most of them, but haven't yet found a specific answer for my question.

We're a family of four with a 2 y.o. and a 6 month currently living in S. Arlington (Fairlington). I work in Tyson's Corner, my wife works in D.C. (near 14th and U). We're looking to buy with a max purchase price of $650K (the lower the better, obviously and I'd love my target to be low $500s).

We want good schools, nice neighborhood, yadda yadda yadda, but also commutes that won't drive either of us crazy. With our work schedules and that of our kids, Metro/VRE/slugging aren't really options.

Feeling priced out of Arlington and not willing to pay Alexandria prices for Alexandria schools, we've been looking at West Springfield and Burke. Any thoughts on these areas? Are there any other areas (VA, MD or DC) that I'm missing that might work for us.

Thanks in advance!!

[ChristineVA]

Actually, I think that's probably a great area for what you are looking for. A very good commute overall to both places of work.

[kww]

After reading your second paragraph I was already floating W Springfield, so you're in the ballpark imo IF the commute into the city will work for your wife.. shouldn't be bad (for most commuters into DC from NOVA, they would be jealous)

[atlyoungin]

Thanks! Right now we both have easy commutes (relatively speaking for the area) and moving to that area won't affect mine, but I'm sure it will add time to her commute and I'm trying to avoid putting that burden on her. Happy Wife, Happy Life... or whatever they say.

[Vectorhead]

West Springfield would be ideal. I commuted from there to Tysons for several years and it was manageable. Schools are excellent, lots of nice housing in older, established neighborhoods, lots of commuting options into DC. It's a really great place to live!

[NeganGrimes]

Whew! From the title I though you had TWO spouses! I was like, man, how do you even have the energy to go to work?!

[Watchful]

Originally Posted by NeganGrimes

Whew! From the title I though you had TWO spouses! I was like, man, how do you even have the energy to go to work?!

Thanks for the GREAT haha!!

[atlyoungin]

Originally Posted by NeganGrimes

Whew! From the title I though you had TWO spouses! I was like, man, how do you even have the energy to go to work?!

Hahaha! In my youth, the idea of two wives seemed appealing. Now, not so much.