Thinking about a move to Fairfax, VA? Picture a small, historic downtown with brick sidewalks and year-round events, surrounded by classic Northern Virginia neighborhoods and easy access to DC. You want convenience, a balanced suburban pace, and options for commuting, schools, and parks. In this guide, you’ll learn what daily life looks like, from housing and transit to weekend fun, so you can decide if Fairfax fits your plans. Let’s dive in.
Fairfax at a glance
Fairfax is a small independent city within Northern Virginia, separate from Fairfax County but closely connected to it. The city covers about 6.3 square miles and has roughly 26,300 residents as of 2024, so it lives more like a small town within a large metro. You’ll hear locals call the historic core “Old Town Fairfax,” which anchors shops, restaurants, and civic life. For a quick city profile and recent demographics, check the City of Fairfax’s official Demographic and Statistical Profile.
Neighborhood feel and housing mix
Old Town Fairfax offers a compact, walkable center with independent businesses and civic spaces like Old Town Square. The surrounding blocks transition to a mix of condos, townhomes, and established single-family neighborhoods. This blend gives you choices: live near downtown and campus energy or choose a quieter residential street a few minutes away. Explore Old Town amenities and events through the City’s Old Town Square page.
What you’ll see on the ground
- Near Old Town: mid-rise condos and apartments, newer townhome communities, and small civic parks.
- Just beyond: mid-20th century single-family homes and later suburban subdivisions on tree-lined streets.
- Near the university: more student-oriented rentals, dining, and cultural programming.
Home prices and rent today
As of early 2026, typical sold prices for Fairfax homes range widely by product and location. Market snapshots commonly show single-family and townhome prices from the mid-$600s to $1M plus, with some sources estimating citywide medians in the $700k to $800k range. Rental averages often land around $2,000 to $2,200 per month, depending on size and proximity to Old Town or George Mason University. Treat these numbers as a point-in-time reference and verify current figures before you shop.
Getting around: commute and transit
Fairfax is well connected to the region’s major routes. I‑66 is the primary link toward Washington, DC, with express lanes and new park-and-ride options added in recent years. If you plan to drive or mix modes, review the Virginia Department of Transportation’s updates on the Transform 66 corridor.
Metrorail and rail options
- Metrorail Orange Line: The Vienna/Fairfax–GMU station is the western terminus and a common park-and-ride for Fairfax residents. Learn more about the station’s role on the Vienna Station page.
- Dunn Loring–Merrifield: Another nearby Orange Line option many locals use.
- VRE Manassas Line: Some commuters drive to a VRE lot, then ride into the city center.
Local buses and shuttles
Fairfax Connector routes link neighborhoods to Metro, George Mason University, and employment centers. For schedules and park-and-ride details, start with the Vienna Metro hub page.
Walkability and bikes
Walkability is strongest in Old Town and around GMU. The city overall blends walkable pockets with suburban blocks where you will likely drive. For a quick address-level view, check Walk Score for Fairfax. Recent I‑66 improvements also added shared-use paths that expand east–west bike connectivity.
Schools and higher education
The City of Fairfax is served by Fairfax County Public Schools, one of the nation’s largest divisions with a broad range of academic and activity options. Attendance zones vary by address, so confirm assignments directly with FCPS when you narrow your search. City materials also outline student counts and local education context in the Demographic and Statistical Profile.
George Mason University’s Fairfax campus sits just south of the city limits. The university adds arts, lectures, sports, and dining options to the area and can influence rental demand near campus. Many residents enjoy GMU performances and public events throughout the year.
Parks, trails, and weekend fun
Fairfax’s small footprint still packs in community green space. Old Town Square and Ratcliffe Park host concerts and family programs that bring neighbors together. To get a feel for downtown’s community hub, explore the City’s Old Town Square page.
For bigger weekend adventures, you are a short drive from Fairfax County Park Authority destinations. A favorite is Burke Lake Park, known for boating, trails, a miniature train, and family-friendly facilities. These regional parks make it easy to add hiking, biking, and picnics to your weekly routine.
Events and local culture
Old Town Fairfax hosts seasonal festivals and street events that anchor the city’s calendar, from summer concerts to fall celebrations and food-centric gatherings. For current dates and lineups, bookmark the Old Town Fairfax events calendar. Add in GMU theater, concerts, and lectures, and you have a steady stream of things to do close to home.
Healthcare and everyday services
Major medical care is close by. Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, a regional tertiary care hospital and Level I trauma center, is a short drive from the city. Learn more about specialties and campus services on the Inova Fairfax Medical Campus page. You will also find urgent care centers and specialty practices throughout Northern Virginia.
Who Fairfax fits best
- You want a small-city feel with a real downtown, but still need easy regional access.
- You value parks, festivals, and low-lift weekend plans without leaving Northern Virginia.
- You commute to DC, Tysons, or Arlington and want options to drive, ride Metro, or mix modes.
- You prefer variety in housing types, from condos and townhomes to classic single-family homes.
A typical weekday in Fairfax
Start with coffee in Old Town, then hop to I‑66 or park at Vienna Metro for the Orange Line. After work, you might walk Old Town Square, catch a campus performance at GMU, or head to a nearby trail for a bike ride. Weekends often mean a festival downtown or a day at Burke Lake with friends and family.
Buying or renting in Fairfax: quick tips
- Define your commute first. Test the drive to I‑66, the park-and-ride to Vienna Metro, and local bus options.
- Narrow by lifestyle. Decide if you want Old Town walkability or a quieter residential street with more parking.
- Align with schools. Confirm attendance zones and program offerings with FCPS before you bid or sign a lease.
- Validate the numbers. Early 2026 price and rent ranges are a snapshot. Recheck current data when you start touring.
Ready to explore Fairfax homes or get pricing on your current property? Work with a local, responsive partner who knows the Northern Virginia market inside and out. Connect with Bobby Pichtel to start your search or request a free valuation today.
FAQs
Is Fairfax, VA the same as Fairfax County?
- No. The City of Fairfax is a small independent city with its own government, surrounded by but separate from Fairfax County. They share services and amenities across borders but are distinct jurisdictions.
How walkable is Fairfax for daily errands?
- Old Town and areas near GMU are the most walkable. Many other neighborhoods are suburban in layout, so you may drive for groceries and larger errands. Check address-level data on Walk Score.
What are the main commute options into DC?
- Drivers use I‑66, including express lanes, while many residents park at Vienna or Dunn Loring for the Orange Line. Some also use Fairfax Connector to reach Metro. Review VDOT and WMATA resources before you plan your route.
Are there good parks and family activities nearby?
- Yes. Within the city, Old Town Square hosts concerts and programs. Nearby Burke Lake Park offers trails, boating, and family-friendly activities run by the Fairfax County Park Authority.
What should I know about local schools?
- The City of Fairfax is served by Fairfax County Public Schools. Attendance zones vary by address and can change, so confirm assignments and programs directly with FCPS before you buy or rent.
