These D.C. suburbs are ideal for families who want to be close to all the fantastic museums, libraries, and historical sites in Washington, D.C. without having to deal with the nonstop activity of the city. View the best communities near Washington, D.C. to raise a family.
Bethesda, MD
There are numerous housing alternatives available to families in the Bethesda neighborhood of Washington, D.C. There are many contemporary townhouses, grand Colonial-style mansions, and wonderful old craftsman-style residences. At the Woodacres Local Park, where there is a playground, softball field, baseball field, tennis courts, and a quiet picnic area, you may enjoy a great day outside. The Bethesda Library offers programs for kids and teenagers, such as a Teen Writers Club and Family Storytime.
Arlington, VA
Arlington, a conveniently located neighborhood little over five miles from Washington, D.C., takes the seventh spot on our list thanks to its abundance of roomy contemporary townhouses and condos as well as traditional cottage-style residences. Rocky Run Park’s playgrounds and basketball courts are ideal for a day of family entertainment. The Central Library in Arlington also provides programming for children and adults.
Chevy Chase, MD
One of the best places for families wishing to settle down is the Washington, DC, suburb of Chevy Chase. The elementary, middle, and high schools are excellent, and the Chevy Chase library hosts kid-friendly educational activities all year long. Although there are many family-friendly restaurants and stores in this area, the outside scene is enormous. In North Chevy Chase and Ray’s Meadow Parks, local families frequently go hiking, engage in team sports, or simply enjoy some time outdoors. The properties here contain more recent modern townhouses and condos in addition to charming colonial and Cape Cod homes. Due to the low unemployment rate of only 2.6 percent, which is far lower than the national average, there are fewer crimes per capita. This D.C. neighborhood is a must-consider for parents wishing to raise their kids in a community that values education and traditional values.
Alexandria, VA
Another top contender for the best city to live in outside of Washington, D.C., is Alexandria, which is located along the Potomac River. Alexandria’s biggest flaw might be that it’s too well-known while being known for its historic, walkable districts. Both locals and visitors enjoy strolling through Old Town Alexandria. You can take a mile-long stroll along the Potomac River Trail for views of the river or along King Street for historic (by American standards) buildings, a variety of small stores, and boutiques. Del Ray is attracting a lot of young professionals looking for a small town atmosphere with an urban feel. Two of the town’s selling characteristics are its vibrant restaurant scene and unique, diversified housing stock. Be prepared financially and have a firm budget because Alexandria houses for sale are pricey. Since there are more homes on the market than there are homes available to buy, the market is also competitive. As a result, if you buy a house without giving it any thought, you run the danger of overpaying. Even so, if you intend to reside in Alexandria and have the means to do so, purchasing a home is definitely your best option.
Mount Airy, VA
Families in the conveniently situated suburb of Mount Airy enjoy a suburban setting while being only a short commute from Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Ranch-style homes and quaint craftsman-style homes are also readily available to homebuyers. Watkins Park has walking paths, playgrounds, tennis courts, a volleyball court, and more. You can even organize a family bowling night at Mt. Airy Bowling Lanes.
Centreville, VA
With contemporary townhouses and cottage-style homes for families of every size, the picturesque community of Centreville completes our list of the finest places for families nearby. Plan a night of family bowling at AMF Centreville Lanes or go hiking in one of Centreville’s lovely parks. The Cub Run Stream Valley Park features a playground and more than 800 wooded acres of space to explore, while the Ellanor C. Lawrence Park has trails, fields, picnic sites, and a historic farmhouse.
