The District of Columbia, home to Washington D.C., the Nation’s Capital, is a hub of political, cultural, and historical significance. Surrounding Washington D.C. are a number of vibrant cities that are easily accessible and offer more options for housing, recreation, and overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
Closest Cities To DC: In Northern Virginia
Discover the charm and convenience of Northern Virginia’s cities near Washington D.C. From many of these cities, getting downtown to see the sightseeing wonders that DC has to offer is quite quick and easy.
Arlington, VA
Arlington is a vibrant city known for its rich history and modern urban living. It is home to numerous government offices as well as the Arlington National Cemetery. The Arlington Cemetery is famous for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Alexandria has many restaurants, bars, and tons of things to do. It’s proximity to DC make it a great place to stay whether you are thinking of living here or visiting. Arlington is a popular place to be whether you are a local or a tourist.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Orange, Silver, Blue, Yellow Lines).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Approximately $850,000.
Alexandria, VA
Famous for its well-preserved Old Town, waterfront charm, and historic architecture. The main street here is King Street and it is full of historic buildings. This area is known as Old Town Alexandria. Old Town has many restaurants, art galleries, and antique shops to explore.
Also located in Alexandria is Mount Vernon, which was once the hoe of George Washington. Visiting Mount Vernon is one of the most popular local attractions here.
This historic town has a thriving community right on the banks of the Potomac River. In addition to being a great place for families, there are many young professionals that live here as well.
It has a diverse range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. If you are a tourist visiting, there are many nearby hotels to metro stations in this lively area. It is a short commute to DC from here.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Blue and Yellow Lines).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Around $750,000.
- The DC Water Taxi also stops in Alexandria
Falls Church, VA
Falls Church is a small city with a strong sense of community and rich cultural history. It is known in the DC area for its top-rated schools and family-friendly neighborhoods. It has a variety of local businesses and community events throughout the year.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Orange and Silver Lines).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: About $800,000.
McLean, VA
McLean Virginia is a great place to live. It’s not a great place to stay as a tourist because there is limited public transportation. This town is a very affluent community known for its luxury homes and excellent school system. It is very close to Tyson’s Corner which has lots of shopping, dining, and a vibrant happy hour scene..
- Metro Stations: Yes (Silver Line).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Approximately $1,200,000.
Vienna, VA
Vienna is a bit further away from DC compared to McLean. Vienna combines a small-town atmosphere with the conveniences of a major metropolitan area. It is also known for its family-friendly community, excellent schools, and annual community events.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Orange Line).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Around $850,000.
Fairfax, Virginia
Fairfax is in Fairfax County Virginia. It is a vibrant city located in the northern part of the state, known for its rich history and close proximity to Washington, D.C. It offers a blend of suburban charm and urban convenience, making it a popular choice for families and professionals.
- Metro Statios To Washington D.C.: The Orange Line serves Fairfax, providing direct access to downtown D.C. The average travel time to D.C. is around 30-45 minutes, depending on the time of day.
Reston, VA
Reston has its own vibrant town center, many green spaces, and a diverse cultural environment. It is a a planned community known for its balance of urban and natural elements.
- Known for its modern architecture and community-oriented design.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Silver Line).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: About $650,000.
Closest Cities To DC: In Montgomery County, Maryland
Explore the diverse and vibrant cities of Montgomery County, Maryland, which neighbors Washington D.C. For those who crave a small-town feel while being close to Washington D.C., these Maryland cities have it all.
Chevy Chase, MD
Chevy Chase, Maryland sits right on the border of DC. It is so close to DC, that part of Chevy Chase is actually in DC. It is an upscale residential community known for its quiet, tree-lined streets. Chevy Chase has high-end shopping and dining, with easy access to parks and green spaces. As expected it is one of the most expensive places to live in the State of Maryland.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Red Line).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Around $1,200,000.
Bethesda, MD
An affluent suburb known for its upscale dining, shopping, and arts scene. Bethesda is home to many corporate headquarters, including Marriott. It is also where the National Institutes of Health is located. It has a mix of urban and suburban living with numerous parks and recreational facilities.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Red Line).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Approximately $1,000,000.
Silver Spring, MD
A bustling urban center with a diverse population and vibrant cultural life. Silver Spring is very close to DC, but it also has its own its lively downtown area, which has entertainment, restaurants, and shopping. Here you will find a mix of historic neighborhoods and modern apartment buildings.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Red Line).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Around $600,000.
Potomac, MD
Potomac is a very popular place to live in the D.C. area. It is well known for having great schools as well as plenty of things to do. Nature lovers will appreciate that the entrance to Great Falls park is right in the heart of Potomac.
- No Metro Stations in Potomac, but nearby Rockville has some
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Around $800,000.
Rockville, MD
Rockville is one of the most popular places to live outside of DC. There are many types of businesses here from diverse restaurants to delicious bakeries. It is a lively place in and of itself, and has a wide variety of things to do. Whether you want to join a country club or just go for happy hour, there’s no shortage of entertainment here. It has a small Town Center and it is well known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and excellent schools.
- Metro Station: Yes (Red Line) Shady Grove Station
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: About $650,000.
Gaithersburg, MD
Just a short drive from Rockville, Maryland is the city of Gaithersburg. This is a very diverse city with a mix of old-town charm and new development. It is known for its cultural festivals and the popular Rio Washingtonian Center. You will find a range of housing options from historic homes to modern apartments.
- Metro Station: Yes (Red Line, Shady Grove Station).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Approximately $500,000.
Wheaton, MD
Wheaton is a diverse and vibrant community known for its international food scene. It is home to the Wheaton Regional Park, which has many outdoor activities.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Red Line).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: About $450,000.
Takoma Park, MD
Takoma Park has a progressive community, cultural diversity, and a thriving arts scene.This city has a small-town feel with a variety of local businesses and community events. Takoma Park is very close to the DC border. It is known for its historic homes and commitment to environmental sustainability.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Red Line).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Approximately $700,000.
Montgomery County’s cities offer a unique blend of suburban comfort and urban convenience. The availability of Metro access makes these areas attractive for both work and leisure.
Closest Cities To DC: In Prince George’s County, Maryland
Also situated in Maryland, Prince George’s County is east of Washington D.C. and offers a mix of urban and suburban living options. Major cities in this county include Bowie, College Park, and Greenbelt. College Park is home to the University of Maryland and is approximately 8 miles from D.C., while Bowie and Greenbelt have residential suburban vibes and are located within a convenient commuting distance to the capital. Prince George’s County covers an area of about 499 square miles, offering its more than 900,000 residents a variety of lifestyle options in the DC suburbs.
Bowie, MD
Bowie Maryland is a rapidly growing city known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and community spirit. It has a variety of recreational parks, shopping centers, and educational facilities.
- Metro Stations: Nearby access in New Carrollton (Orange Line).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Approximately $400,000.
College Park, MD
College Park is home to the University of Maryland, creating a vibrant and youthful atmosphere. It has a mix of academic culture, sports events, and diverse dining options.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Green and Yellow Lines).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Around $350,000.
Greenbelt, MD
Greenbelt is a unique city with a strong sense of community and historical significance. It is about halfway between Bowie Maryland and College Park Maryland. It is known for the Greenbelt Park. This is a large urban park offering extensive outdoor activities. Greenbelt has a mix of historic homes as well as more modern developments.
- Metro Stations: Yes (Green Line).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: About $320,000.
Laurel, MD
Laurel Maryland straddles Prince George’s County and neighboring counties. You can get more square footage here for your dollar because it is a little further away from DC when compared to some of the other areas mentioned. It is known for its convenient location between Washington D.C. and Baltimore.
- Metro Stations: Nearby access in Greenbelt and Muirkirk (Green Line).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: Around $375,000.
Upper Marlboro, MD
The county seat, known for its rich history and equestrian culture.
- Offers a blend of historic charm and suburban development.
- Known for its beautiful countryside and proximity to the Patuxent River.
- Metro Stations: Nearby access in Largo Town Center (Blue and Silver Lines).
- Average Cost of Single-Family Home: About $450,000.
Closest Cities To DC: Summary
DC is home to some of the most historical buildings in the United States. From the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, to the Capitol Building, there’s plenty to do and see here. If you don’t want to live or stay in DC itself, there are many cities close to Washington DC that have both temporary lodging as well as homes for purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently as questions about the best places to live or stay near Washington DC.
What are the nearest cities in Maryland to Washington, DC?
The closest cities in Maryland to Washington, DC, include East Riverdale and College Park. East Riverdale is approximately 8 miles away from DC, while College Park, home to the University of Maryland, is also within close proximity to the nation’s capital.
Which Virginia cities are the closest to Washington, DC?
Some of the nearest cities in Virginia to Washington, DC, are Alexandria and Falls Church. Alexandria, located approximately 8 miles south of DC, is well-known for its historic Old Town district. Falls Church, meanwhile, is a mere 9 miles west of DC and offers a gathering of shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
What are some small towns within easy commuting distance to Washington, DC?
Leesburg, Virginia, and St. Michaels, Maryland, are two small towns within easy commuting distance to Washington, DC. Leesburg, located in Loudoun County, boasts a historic downtown area. St. Michaels, situated on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, is popular for sailing, bicycling, and seafood dining.
How far is Baltimore from Washington, DC, and is it a common commuting city?
Baltimore is approximately 40 miles northeast of Washington, DC. It is a common commuting city, with many people traveling between the two urban centers for work. Commuters often take advantage of the MARC (Maryland Area Regional Commuter) train service or the Interstate 95 corridor.
Can you list cities that are located approximately 30 minutes away from Washington, DC?
Some cities within a 30-minute drive from Washington, DC, include Arlington, Alexandria, Bethesda, and Silver Spring. These cities offer convenient locations and are popular among professionals working in the DC metro area.
What are some affordable communities within a 2-hour drive from Washington, DC?
Affordable communities within a 2-hour drive from Washington, DC, include Fredericksburg, Virginia, and Hagerstown, Maryland. Both cities offer lower housing costs while still providing reasonable access to employment opportunities in and around the capital.
