If you are a young adult looking to make the move to a new area, Arlington should be first on your radar. A mid-sized city just outside of Washington, D.C., Arlington has a lot to offer for any young professional, whether it be job opportunities, culture, community, or just big city vibes. If you are in your 20s or 30s looking to make a big life change, moving to Arlington may just be the right decision. Why does Arlington consistently rank in the top five best places to live for young professionals? Here are a few of many reasons.
Activities
Arlington offers a wide variety of activities and amenities that appeal to young professionals. From upscale restaurants and trendy bars to museums and historical sites, there is plenty to keep you busy whether you’re looking for a night on the town or an educational experience. Arlington is also home to many public parks, including the popular Gravelly Point Park, which has breathtaking views of the Potomac River. Young adults can also take advantage of the city’s many green spaces for a quick jog or bike ride, perfect for fitness gurus and nature lovers.
Education
Arlington is also home to many universities and colleges, making it an ideal place for postgraduate students looking to continue their education, or adult learners looking to pursue a new career path through higher education. Whether you’re looking for an undergraduate degree or a graduate program, there’s no lack of options in Arlington. The area also has a thriving community for young entrepreneurs with plenty of co-working spaces and networking events.
Real Estate
The stable real estate market in Arlington is highly attractive to young adults, with plenty of new developments and condos popping up each year. This is a great—albeit somewhat pricey—place to invest in real estate, and you can guarantee your home will only increase in value over time thanks to the well-paying government jobs at the nation’s capital just across the river. With the average salary in this area being higher than the national average, purchasing Arlington real estate should not be an issue for young professionals.
Job Opportunities
As mentioned, living in Arlington gives young professionals the opportunity to work for the United States government just over the Potomac River in Washington D.C. If that is not your life’s dream, there are plenty of jobs available in the city of Arlington itself. This area is home to Amazon’s second headquarters, as well as many other large employers. The job outlook here is consistently pretty great compared to the U.S. average, so no matter what your industry, you can guarantee there’s an opportunity here for you.
Culture
The city of Arlington is full of museums, art galleries, and theaters—something for everyone no matter their taste. There’s also a booming music and nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and festivals where residents with even the most decisive tastes can spend their free time. The city is also home to some of the most popular annual events in the area, including the Taste of Arlington festival and the Arlington County Fair.