Vienna, VA vs. Mclean, VA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Vienna and Mclean are two popular suburbs in the Washington D.C. metro area that attract residents seeking a balance of space, amenities, and proximity to the nation’s capital. While both towns offer a high quality of life, many people compare Vienna and Mclean when deciding where to settle down, especially when it comes to the cost of living.
In 2025, as remote work continues to reshape housing preferences, cost has become an even more central factor for those choosing between these two communities. Families are looking for affordable options with ample space, while young professionals prioritize areas with urban access and amenities. So which town comes out ahead on expenses? Let’s break it down.
One common myth is that Mclean is always pricier than Vienna due to its reputation as an affluent enclave. However, when you dig into the numbers, the reality is more nuanced. Here’s how the two stack up across major living cost categories in 2025:
Housing Costs: Mclean Offers More Value for Homebuyers
Housing is the biggest line item in most budgets, and it’s an area where Mclean has an edge over Vienna. While both towns have a mix of apartments, townhomes, and single-family houses, Mclean’s housing stock tends to be newer, with more spacious options at similar price points.
In 2025, the median home price in Mclean is around $950,000, compared to $1.1 million in Vienna. For a typical 3-bedroom house, Mclean buyers can expect to pay about $850,000-$1,000,000, while similar homes in Vienna often run upwards of $1,000,000-$1,200,000. This means a potential savings of $150,000-$250,000 for Mclean homebuyers.
On the rental side, prices are more comparable, but Mclean still comes out slightly ahead. A mid-range 2-bedroom apartment rents for about $2,300-$2,800/month in Mclean, versus $2,500-$3,000/month in Vienna.
| Housing Type | Vienna | Mclean |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $1,100,000 | $950,000 |
| Typical 3BR House | $1,000,000 – $1,200,000 | $850,000 – $1,000,000 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,500 – $3,000 | $2,300 – $2,800 |
For families looking to maximize space on a budget, Mclean offers better value and selection in the single-family home market. Young professionals who prefer renting will find savings in Mclean as well, though the difference is less pronounced. Ultimately, Mclean takes the lead on housing costs in 2025.
Utilities and Energy: Newer Homes Give Mclean an Advantage
Utility costs are another area where Mclean residents tend to see savings, primarily due to the town’s newer housing stock. Homes built in the last 20-30 years generally have better insulation, energy-efficient windows, and updated HVAC systems compared to older properties.
In Mclean, a typical household spends around $200-$300/month on electricity, gas, water, and sewer. Vienna residents usually pay closer to $250-$350/month, with higher bills in the summer and winter when heating and cooling needs peak.
These differences add up over time, especially for larger families in single-family homes. A family of four in a 3-bedroom Mclean house might spend $3,000-$3,600 annually on utilities, while the same family in Vienna could pay $3,600-$4,200. Both areas offer energy-saving programs, like off-peak rates and efficiency rebates, but Mclean still comes out ahead.
Groceries and Dining: A Draw Between the Two Towns
When it comes to food costs, Vienna and Mclean are fairly evenly matched. Both towns have a variety of grocery options, from major chains to local specialty stores, with similar price points. Expect to spend about $100-$150/week on groceries for a two-person household, or $150-$200/week for a family of four.
Dining out is also comparable between the two areas. A casual meal for two averages $50-$70 in both Vienna and Mclean, while upscale restaurants run closer to $100-$150. Coffee shops and fast-casual spots are similarly priced, with a latte or sandwich costing around $5-$8.
One minor difference is that Mclean has a slightly higher concentration of high-end dining options, so foodies might spend a bit more eating out. However, for most residents, food costs are essentially a wash between Vienna and Mclean.
Taxes and Fees: Mclean’s Newer Infrastructure Pays Off
Vienna and Mclean both have competitive tax rates for the region, with a few notable differences. Property taxes are slightly lower in Mclean, at around 1.1% of assessed value compared to 1.3% in Vienna. For a $1,000,000 home, that’s a savings of about $2,000/year.
Sales tax is identical in both towns at 6%, as it’s set at the state level in Virginia. However, Mclean residents often pay lower municipal fees for services like trash collection, water, and sewer due to the area’s newer infrastructure. This can save homeowners $200-$500/year compared to Vienna.
One potential added cost in Mclean is homeowners association (HOA) fees, which are more common due to the prevalence of newer planned communities. These can range from $100-$500/month, so it’s important for buyers to factor this in. Overall though, Mclean offers a lower tax and fee burden for most residents.
| Expense Category | Vienna | Mclean |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR House) | $4,000 – $5,000 | $3,500 – $4,500 |
| Utilities | $250 – $350 | $200 – $300 |
| Groceries | $600 – $800 | $600 – $800 |
| Transportation | $100 – $200 | $100 – $200 |
| Taxes | $1,200 – $1,500 | $900 – $1,200 |
| Misc. | $500 – $800 | $500 – $800 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $6,650 – $8,650 | $5,800 – $7,800 |
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.
Based on these figures, a typical family could save $850-$1,000 per month on living costs by choosing Mclean over Vienna in 2025. For a young professional renting an apartment, the savings would be more modest, around $200-$300/month. Of course, these numbers will vary based on individual circumstances, but they provide a helpful snapshot of the overall cost difference.
Lifestyle Fit: Suburban Charm vs. Urban Access
While cost is a major consideration, it’s also important to weigh lifestyle factors when deciding between Vienna and Mclean. Both towns offer a suburban feel with ample green space, good schools, and a strong sense of community. However, there are some key differences that can tip the scales.
Vienna has a quainter, small-town vibe, with a walkable downtown area featuring local shops and restaurants. It’s a great fit for families who prioritize a tight-knit community and shorter commutes, as it’s closer to D.C. Vienna’s average commute time is just 25 minutes, compared to 30-35 minutes from Mclean.
Mclean, on the other hand, offers more of an urban-suburban hybrid feel. It’s located right along the Capital Beltway, providing easy access to D.C.’s museums, airports, and nightlife. Mclean also boasts more upscale shopping and dining options, including Tysons Corner Center, a luxury mall with over 300 stores. For young professionals and empty nesters, Mclean can be an appealing choice.
Lifestyle factors can also indirectly impact living costs. For example, Vienna’s walkability means residents can save on transportation by running errands on foot. Mclean’s newer homes often come with energy-efficient features that lower utility bills. Considering the full picture is key to making a smart financial decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vienna more affordable than Mclean in 2025? While Vienna has a reputation for being the cheaper option, Mclean actually offers lower costs in several key areas like housing, utilities, and taxes. For most households, Mclean is the more affordable choice in 2025.
How do grocery costs compare between Vienna and Mclean? Grocery prices are very similar in Vienna and Mclean, with both towns offering a range of options from budget-friendly chains to high-end specialty stores. Expect to spend $600-$800/month on food for a typical family.
Are property taxes higher in Mclean than in Vienna? No, property tax rates are actually slightly lower in Mclean at 1.1% of assessed value, compared to 1.3% in Vienna. This can save Mclean homeowners around $2,000/year on a $1,000,000 property.
What is the average monthly cost of living for a family of four in Vienna vs. Mclean? In 2025, a family of four can expect to spend around $8,000-$9,000/month on living expenses in Vienna. The same family would likely pay closer to $7,000-$8,000/month in Mclean, for a potential savings of $1,000+/month.
Is Vienna considered a better value for homebuyers compared to Mclean? While Vienna has some excellent neighborhoods, Mclean generally offers more house for the money. Buyers can often find larger, newer homes in Mclean for the same price as smaller, older properties in Vienna.
Conclusion: Mclean Edges Out Vienna on Affordability
After comparing the numbers, it’s clear that Mclean offers a lower overall cost of living than Vienna in 2025. While both towns provide a high quality of life, Mclean’s newer housing stock, lower taxes, and more affordable utility costs give it a significant edge. For most families, choosing Mclean over Vienna could mean saving $10,000-$12,000 annually.
Of course, the right choice ultimately depends on each household’s unique needs and priorities. Young professionals who value walkability and shorter commutes may prefer Vienna, while families looking for more space and urban amenities lean toward Mclean. In any case, weighing both the financial and lifestyle factors is essential to making an informed decision.
For more insights on budgeting and managing expenses in Vienna or Mclean, check out our Average Monthly Expenses in Vienna, VA and Cost of Living in Vienna, VA: Full 2025 Breakdown guides. If a move is in your future, be sure to see our 2025 moving company picks to find reliable, cost-effective movers in your area.