Arlington vs Fairfax: Cost Comparison

Arlington, VA vs. Fairfax, VA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

Arlington and Fairfax are two popular Northern Virginia suburbs often compared by those relocating to the Washington D.C. metro area. While Arlington offers closer proximity to the capital and a more urban feel, Fairfax attracts residents with its spacious homes and strong school system. But which city provides better value in 2025?

Despite a common myth that Fairfax is the more affordable option, a closer look at the data reveals that Arlington can be surprisingly cost-effective for many households. In this article, we’ll break down the key expenses that impact the cost of living in Arlington, VA versus Fairfax, including housing, utilities, groceries, and taxes, to help you determine which city best fits your budget and lifestyle.

Housing Costs

Housing is typically the largest expense for most households, and the Arlington vs. Fairfax comparison is no exception. As of 2025, the median home price in Arlington stands at $850,000, while Fairfax comes in slightly lower at $800,000. For renters, a typical two-bedroom apartment averages $2,400 per month in Arlington and $2,200 in Fairfax.

However, these overall figures don’t tell the whole story. Arlington offers a wider variety of housing options, from high-rise condos to charming bungalows, which can make it easier for buyers and renters to find a property that fits their budget. Fairfax, on the other hand, is known for its larger single-family homes, which can come with higher price tags and property taxes.

For young professionals and couples without children, Arlington’s more compact housing stock and urban amenities can offer better value. Families, however, may find that Fairfax’s larger homes and yards are worth the slightly higher costs. Ultimately, with a difference of about $200-300 per month in housing expenses, Arlington comes out ahead for those prioritizing affordability.

Utilities and Energy Costs

Utility costs are another important factor when comparing the cost of living between cities. Both Arlington and Fairfax residents can expect to pay around $150-200 per month for basic utilities like electricity, water, and gas in a typical two-bedroom apartment. Larger homes in Fairfax may see slightly higher bills due to increased square footage.

One area where Arlington has an advantage is in the age of its housing stock. With a mix of newer construction and recently renovated properties, Arlington homes tend to be more energy-efficient, which can lead to lower heating and cooling costs. Fairfax’s older homes, while charming, may require more energy to maintain comfortable temperatures.

Both cities offer energy-saving programs and incentives, such as rebates for efficient appliances and off-peak electricity rates. However, Arlington’s more compact development and easier access to public transit can help residents save on transportation costs, offsetting slightly higher utility bills. For these reasons, Arlington narrowly edges out Fairfax in the utilities category.

Groceries and Daily Expenses

When it comes to everyday expenses like groceries, dining out, and household goods, Arlington and Fairfax are fairly evenly matched. Both cities offer a mix of large chain supermarkets and smaller specialty stores, with prices that are on par with the greater D.C. metro area.

One notable difference is in the restaurant scene. Arlington’s more urban environment means a greater variety of dining options, from casual cafes to high-end restaurants. While this can be a perk for foodies, it also means slightly higher prices for a meal out. Fairfax’s restaurant options tend to be more suburban in nature, with a focus on chain restaurants and family-friendly fare.

For a family of four, monthly grocery costs in either city will likely fall between $800-1,000, assuming a mix of home cooking and occasional dining out. Single residents and couples may see lower costs in the $400-600 range. With slightly lower restaurant prices, Fairfax comes out ahead in this category, but the difference is minimal.

Taxes and Fees

Taxes are often a deciding factor when comparing the cost of living between cities, and the Arlington vs. Fairfax matchup is no exception. Both cities have relatively high property tax rates compared to the national average, with Arlington at 0.996% and Fairfax at 1.11%.

For a home valued at $800,000, that translates to an annual property tax bill of $7,968 in Arlington and $8,880 in Fairfax. However, Arlington’s slightly lower tax rate can add up to significant savings over time, especially for higher-value properties.

Other taxes and fees to consider include Virginia’s 5.3% sales tax, which applies in both cities, as well as vehicle registration fees and personal property taxes on cars. Arlington’s more urban environment means that some residents may be able to forgo car ownership altogether, saving on these costs. Overall, Arlington’s lower property taxes give it the edge in this category.

Cost Summary Table

Based on the cost breakdown above, a typical household can expect to spend around $4,064 per month living in Arlington, compared to $3,970 in Fairfax. While Fairfax comes out slightly ahead in terms of total costs, the difference of less than $100 per month is relatively minor.

Estimates reflect 2025 costs for a mid-size household (2-bedroom apartment or 3-bedroom home) using published national data and regional benchmarks. Actual expenses will vary with household size, lifestyle, and neighborhood.

Lifestyle Fit

While cost is a major consideration, it’s also important to factor in lifestyle when choosing between Arlington and Fairfax. Arlington’s more urban environment means shorter commute times and greater walkability, with easy access to public transit and bike lanes. This can lead to lower transportation costs and a more active lifestyle.

Fairfax, on the other hand, offers a more suburban feel, with larger homes and yards that may appeal to families. The city’s highly-rated school system is a major draw for parents, and the more spacious properties can provide room for kids to play and grow.

Culturally, both cities offer a range of activities and amenities, from parks and recreation centers to museums and performing arts venues. Arlington’s closer proximity to Washington D.C. means easier access to the capital’s many attractions, while Fairfax’s more laid-back vibe may appeal to those seeking a quieter pace of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Arlington more affordable than Fairfax in 2025?
While Fairfax has a slightly lower overall cost of living, Arlington can be more affordable for certain households, particularly those that prioritize walkability and urban amenities. The difference in monthly costs between the two cities is relatively minor, at less than $100 per month.

Are rental prices lower in Arlington or Fairfax?
Rental prices are generally lower in Fairfax, with a typical two-bedroom apartment costing around $2,200 per month compared to $2,400 in Arlington. However, Arlington offers a wider variety of rental options, from high-rise apartments to single-family homes, which may make it easier to find a property that fits your budget.

How do grocery costs compare between Arlington and Fairfax?
Grocery costs are similar in both cities, with a family of four likely to spend between $800-1,000 per month on food and household items. Fairfax has slightly lower prices for dining out, but the difference is minimal.

Are property taxes higher in Fairfax than in Arlington?
Yes, property taxes are slightly higher in Fairfax, with a rate of 1.11% compared to 0.996% in Arlington. For a home valued at $800,000, this translates to an annual property tax bill of $8,880 in Fairfax and $7,968 in Arlington.

What is the average monthly cost of living for a family of four in Arlington vs. Fairfax?
Based on our cost of living analysis, a family of four can expect to spend around $4,064 per month in Arlington and $3,970 per month in Fairfax. This assumes a mix of housing, utility, grocery, transportation, and tax costs. Actual expenses will vary depending on lifestyle and neighborhood.

Conclusion

While Fairfax has a reputation for being the more affordable option, a closer look at the data reveals that Arlington can be a surprisingly cost-effective choice for many households. With lower property taxes, greater walkability, and a wider variety of housing options, Arlington offers a compelling mix of urban amenities and relative affordability.

Ultimately, the choice between Arlington and Fairfax will come down to your individual priorities and lifestyle preferences. By carefully considering the cost of living factors outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision about which city is the best fit for your budget and long-term goals. For more information on budgeting for a move to Arlington, check out our guide on how much it costs to live in Arlington each month.