Reston vs. Herndon (renting, house, to buy)

[rivettijensen]

We are currently renting in Reston and we love it. We would like to buy within the next year but we can obviously get more house for our money in Herndon. I'm wondering what the main differences are between the two cities. I mean, I know Reston is a planned community and has the Reston Association, which is a huge difference. But what else? From what I can see, Herndon has a pretty great community center and pretty great parks, etc.

If it matters, we are a family with small children.

Thanks!

[hilsmom]

It depends what you are looking for. We prefer Reston, although we do use the Herndon Community Center for some classes for our daughter. I think the community amenities of Reston are better, but you can't find a decent single family home for less than $500K. That would be the only reason we would make the move to Herndon.

I like the parks and pools in Reston, plus the walking trails. Herndon has some of that, but they aren't as nice and connected. I also like the Village Centers - being able to walk to the grocery store and a few other things is a big plus.