Military members with PCS orders to the Pentagon are often met with excitement and overwhelm due to its desirable location near Washington, DC, and the extreme number of housing location possibilities they must consider before choosing their best option.
For better or worse, Pentagon housing options are vast and range from nearby locations, such as Arlington, Virginia, to more distant northern Maryland suburbs like Bowie or Crofton. And still, many service members prefer a longer commute from the southern suburbs of Northern Virginia, such as Woodbridge and Stafford, to afford more square footage and a larger lot size.
Here, however, we’ll focus on some of the most popular options, where commute times, access to public transportation, a variety of housing options, and top-notch school systems all come together to provide a high quality of life for military families stationed at the Pentagon.
Let's get to know Arlington, the City of Alexandria, Alexandria, Fairfax County, and The City of Fairfax.
First, here’s a quick look at MilitaryByOwner’s available Pentagon housing:
Arlington properties offer the ultimate in convenience for Pentagon military families. Some neighborhoods, like Crystal City, are located within walking or biking distance to work. This urban location combines city sophistication with suburban family amenities, making it incredibly popular among military spouses seeking career advancement and quality of life amenities. However, single-family homes are costly and in the minority, so you should probably consider townhouse, condo, or apartment living to keep your options open in Arlington.
Arlington Public Schools consistently rank among the nation's top school districts, with high schools like Washington-Liberty and Yorktown High School boasting impressive college placement rates and comprehensive Advanced Placement programs.
You can learn more about the city by reading Interesting and Unique Things to Do in Arlington, Virginia.
The county's commitment to parks and recreation is exceptional, with over 200 parks offering a range of amenities, from youth sports leagues to hiking trails. The Washington & Old Dominion Trail offers 45 miles of paved path perfect for family biking adventures, while parks like Upton Hill Regional Park feature swimming pools, batting cages, and miniature golf.
Cultural opportunities abound in Arlington, from the county's vibrant farmers' markets to professional theater productions at venues like Signature Theatre. The proximity to Washington, DC, means access to world-class museums, monuments, and cultural events is always available.
Arlington’s transportation options are among the best in the area, with multiple Metro stops providing easy access throughout the region. This connectivity is particularly valuable for military spouses seeking employment opportunities, as it opens up job markets throughout the metropolitan area without requiring a second vehicle.
The City of Alexandria stands out as the top choice for many Pentagon families, and it's easy to understand why. Located just across the Potomac River, this historic city offers one of the shortest commutes to the Pentagon, typically ranging from 20 to 25 minutes, depending on your specific neighborhood and whether you bike, drive, or ride the train. Del Ray is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in the City of Alexandria, bordered by US Route 1/Richmond Highway and Glebe Road.
Housing options range from historic townhomes in Old Town to modern apartments and single-family homes in neighborhoods like Beverley Hills and Seminary Hill. While costs are likely higher than many of your previous duty stations, the shorter commute times often offset transportation expenses, and the area's excellent public services and amenities provide a substantial value for military renters and home buyers.
What to Know for a Military Move to Alexandria, Virginia, is an easy first step for learning the city’s ins and outs.
The city's school system consistently ranks among Virginia's best, earning state recognition for academic excellence. The district's commitment to STEM education and college preparation programs makes it particularly attractive for military families planning their children's future educational paths.
Beyond academics, Alexandria's rich history provides endless learning opportunities for families. Old Town Alexandria transports you back to America's founding era, with cobblestone streets, 18th-century architecture, and landmarks like the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Weekend family activities abound, from exploring the waterfront parks along the Potomac to visiting George Washington's Mount Vernon estate just minutes away.
There’s a lot to love about both Alexandrias. Get to know each with the Alexandria Guide For Newcomers.
Alexandria, Fairfax County (sometimes referred to as Lower Alexandria or South Alexandria), is often confused with its northern neighbor, the City of Alexandria, but it is an entirely different entity with its own government and school system. Here, single-family homes are mostly traditional, accompanied by larger lots, and they come with equally large price tags. However, if townhome living is your preference, you can find those in several communities, especially in Kingstowne.
Military families often choose this Alexandria because of its easy commute to the Pentagon. Many cruise the George Washington Parkway straight into the Pentagon’s parking lot, from Fort Hunt’s in-demand neighborhoods, such as Waynewood or Riverside Gardens. Others take alternative routes from perennial favorite neighborhoods, such as Hayfield Farms and Island Creek. If you’re looking for the "Mayberry" vibe to raise a family, you can find it in Alexandria, but you’ll need to move quickly and be financially prepared for high real estate prices and taxes.
The military community presence is strong throughout Alexandria, creating natural support networks for newcomers. Many neighborhoods host regular family events, and the proximity to multiple military bases like Fort Belvoir and Fort McNair means you'll find families who understand the unique challenges and rewards of military life.
However, arguably, the number one reason families consider the area is due to Fairfax County Public Schools. It’s the largest school district in Virginia and consistently ranks among the top large districts nationally. Schools like Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (a specialized STEM magnet school) provide academic opportunities that rival any in the country.
The district's extensive Advanced Placement offerings, robust special education services, and innovative programs, like the International Baccalaureate, prepare students for success at the nation's top universities.
All of these opportunities are amazing, especially if you're moving from a not-so-great duty station and ready to take advantage of new opportunities. However, Northern Virginia, including Alexandria, tends to lean toward high-achieving examples, so newcomers sometimes don’t appreciate the intense hustle intertwined with academics and sports.
If you need help deciding between Alexandria and Arlington, Where Should You Live: Alexandria or Arlington? narrows your choices.
The City of Fairfax, Virginia, is an independent, incorporated city that represents the gold standard for suburban living among military families looking for Pentagon housing. While the commute is longer at 30 to 45 minutes, families consistently choose Fairfax for its exceptional schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and strong sense of community. When neighbors refer to Fairfax, they commonly include nearby communities like Green Briar, Kings Park West, Fair Lakes, Navy, and Mantua, which lie outside of the city of Fairfax’s official boundaries in unincorporated Fairfax County.
The city embodies classic American suburbia at its best, featuring tree-lined neighborhoods, excellent parks, and community centers that host a range of activities, from youth sports to senior citizen programs. Fairfax's location provides access to both urban amenities and rural recreation, with hiking trails, historic sites, and family farms all within a short drive.
Shopping and dining options cater to diverse military families, offering a range of choices from authentic international cuisine that reflects the area's multicultural population to classic American family restaurants. The Fairfax Corner and Fair Oaks Malls provide shopping and entertainment options, including movie theaters and family entertainment centers.
If all of these options sound amazing, you’re not the only one who thinks so! Many military families struggle to choose the best fit when looking for Pentagon homes for sale or rent. The best way to help you decide is to list your priorities, including your must-haves, such as commute time, budget, access to public transportation, and educational opportunities. Then, keep an open mind as you research houses that might not have been your first choice. Hidden gems are the norm!
Learn more about moving to the area and finding Pentagon housing with our free buide to Washington, DC, below.