Best place to live between Quantico and DC (Arlington, Alexandria: condo, townhouse)

[fiskkm]

My job could have me in downtown DC at times and down near Quantico at other times. I would be driving down to Quantico and would either use public transportation or drive into DC. So, I am looking for something in between the two and would appreciate any recommendations. Here is some background info on my family/housing requirements: we have kids so schools are extremely important, we need at least 2,000 sq ft and 3BR/2BA, we want to live in a single family home - not a townhouse or condo, and our budget is $500K or less. We currently live in Old Town Alexandria and LOVE it, so anything even remotely close to that feel would be idea (I understand that area is unique which is why I said 'even remotely close').

With that in mind, what would be the best options - Springfield, Franconia Lorton, Manassas? Any other ideas? Any assistance is greatly appreciated.

[Kembek]

I worked in DC for years and then was transferred to Quantico before I finally retired. I live in Springfield and the location was perfect for me.

[CAVA1990]

I've done both commutes from my house in Mount Vernon so this would be an area to check out. You'll have no trouble finding what you're looking for in your price range here. Some neighborhoods to consider would be Riverside Estates, Riverside Gardens, Stratford Landing, and Waynewood. Schools will be comparable no matter where you go in Fairfax County, though test scores may differ due to demographic mix. If you enjoy Old Town you should live somewhere not far from it. I go there all the time (nearly every day) to shop, eat, or just walk around. There's no traffic between here and Quantico either way and a bit going into DC through Old Town (mainly when some numbskull leaves his car parked overnight in the HOV lane) and at the 14th Street bridge. Come on down the parkway and take a look.

[roninsedge]

I have to second what CAVA1990 says. That area is close to Huntington metro to get to the city, the drive to Quantico is not too horrid once you get past Ft. Belvoir.

[fiskkm]

Thanks for the information thus far.

Kembek, how long is the commute from Springfield to Quantico?

CAVA1990 and roninsedge, I have the same question. How long would the drive be from the Mt. Vernon area to Quantico? Also, if I had to drive into downtown at rush hour, how long would that take?

[stpickrell]

Yeah, if you can handle West Potomac, the Waynewood/Hollin Hall area will be great for you. Your house won't necessarily be the most updated, though.

If you'll be @ Quantico more often than DC, you can try Lake Ridge.

If you'll be @ DC more often than Quantico, you can try places in South Arlington (but you'd have to be OK with Wakefield HS).

If you want a top-performing school pyramid, you'll want West Springfield. Burke would be too far out imo.

[FarRocks]

Springfield

[fiskkm]

So, why doesn't anyone recommend Manassas? It is a bit longer commute, but the housing is much more affordable. The schools seem to be good, depending on the specific school, so I am always curious why people appear to have a bias against Manassas. Can anyone comment? I have only been to the area once and thought it looked like a good option since the statistics (housing, schools, commute) indicate it would be a good option and I like history and unique shopping/restaurants (not all chain).

[BayAreaHillbilly]

How long of a Metro ride is it from Huntington into downtown DC?

[CAVA1990]

Originally Posted by fiskkm

CAVA1990 and roninsedge, I have the same question. How long would the drive be from the Mt. Vernon area to Quantico? Also, if I had to drive into downtown at rush hour, how long would that take?

It's about 30 minutes to the North gate then depending how far you'll be working from the gate could be another 15 minutes.