Let the numbers do the talking.
Arlington, VA vs McLean, VA
Arlington, VA vs McLean, VA: What the data shows
Arlington, VA is in Arlington, VA while McLean, VA is in McLean, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Arlington, VA is the more affordable option at $749,000 median — $492,500 less than McLean, VA's $1,241,500. WYLT rates Arlington, VA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and McLean, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
McLean, VA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Arlington, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. McLean, VA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Arlington, VA has Low flood risk and McLean, VA has Low flood risk.
Arlington, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Arlington, VA scores 85/100 (very walkable) versus McLean, VA's 51/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, McLean, VA has the higher school rating — Arlington, VA rates 8.5/10 and McLean, VA rates 8.6/10.
| Category | Arlington, VA | McLean, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $749K ✓ Lower price | $1.24M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $140K | $250K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 85/100 ✓ More walkable | 51/100 |
| Transit Score | 59/100 ✓ Better transit | 35/100 |
| Bike Score | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 9 min ✓ Shorter commute | 45 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.5/10 | 8.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | young professionalscommuters to DCsmall families | Affluent familiesRemote workers with good broadbandParents prioritizing high school quality |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional or commuter looking for a walkable, transit-friendly spot with top-rated schools, settle on Arlington, VA. However, if you're an affluent family prioritizing high school quality and a quiet, secure suburb, McLean might work for you, but it's extremely pricey. Ultimately, Arlington is the better choice for most people, while McLean caters to a specific niche.
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