10 Richest Cities in Virginia
- Great Falls
- McLean
- Wolf Trap
- Vienna
- Falls Church
- Dranesville
- Alexandria
- Fairfax
- Herndon
- Manassas
1. Great Falls
The richest city in Virginia is Great Falls. Situated in the northern part of the state, this city is located close to the Maryland border and is home to about 16,000 people. Residents here prefer the area for its combination of natural beauty and upscale amenities, which include lush forests, scenic trails, and numerous high-end restaurants and boutiques. Additionally, the city’s proximity to Washington, D.C., makes it a popular choice among commuters and those who prefer more urban entertainment. With the state’s highest per capita income and home values, Great Falls is the most expensive city in Virginia.
2. McLean
McLean is the second most expensive place to live in Virginia. Located just south of Great Falls, this city has a sizable population of nearly 51,000 people. Residents are drawn to the area for its upscale amenities, exceptional school systems, and proximity to the nation’s capital. Favorite attractions in this area include Scott’s Run Nature Preserve and Clemyjontri Park, both of which are popular among local families. The dining scene in McLean is also quite impressive, with a diverse assortment of dining options available. The local per capita income in McLean falls close to $115k, making this city the second-best choice for Virginia’s elite.
3. Wolf Trap
Wolf Trap is another one of Virginia’s richest cities. Known for its beautiful local scenery and cultural entertainment, this city has often been considered one of the state’s best places to live. One of the most beloved attractions in this area is the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, which features several outdoor amphitheaters, a state-of-the-art indoor theater, and an abundance of educational programs and events. Other notable amenities include exceptional school systems, numerous parks, and the Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder the local per capita income sits at $92k, making it an essential part of Virginia’s richest cities.
4. Vienna
Vienna is another one of the wealthiest towns in Virginia’s portion of the Washington metropolitan area. Located about 16 miles from the nation’s capital, Vienna is home to just over 16,000 people and is known for its charming atmosphere and vibrant local community. The most notable attraction here is the city’s bustling downtown area, a featured location for a variety of small businesses, restaurants, and shops. Other beloved amenities include the city’s excellent public school system and easy access to the surrounding area. With some of the highest home values and per capita income rates in the state, Vienna is certain to impress those who prefer an upscale lifestyle.
5. Falls Church
Falls Church is among the best areas in Virginia for those who prefer small-town living with big-city amenities. Located within the Washington metropolitan area, this wealthy city is home to about 15,000 residents and is best known for its rich history, tightly-knit local community, and distinctly private atmosphere. The city’s resident base is diverse and culturally rich, which is reflected throughout the area’s wide variety of international cuisine. Locals will also find a thriving arts scene, with several theaters, galleries, and music venues within the city. The per capita income in Falls Church averages $76k, making this a diverse addition to the richest cities in Virginia.
6. Dranesville
Situated along the Potomac River is Dranesville, another one of Virginia’s richest cities. Home to just under 12,000 people, this city is preferable for those who gravitate towards a peaceful community with a relaxed atmosphere. An area possessing several major parks and natural resources, Dranesville is best known for its natural beauty and wide range of outdoor recreation. Favorite hotspots include Riverbend Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing, and boating opportunities, as well as several historical landmarks. With the local per capita income rate averaging $69k, Dranesville is one of the wealthiest cities in Virginia.
7. Alexandria
In addition to being one of Virginia’s most expensive cities, Alexandria is also one of the largest. This area is home to a sizable population of roughly 155,000 people, making it the fifth-largest city in the entire state. Apart from its considerable size, this city is also popular for its rich history, vibrant culture, exceptional public schools, and the active local community – all of which help to make it an attractive option for Virginia families. Additionally, it is situated only seven miles from Washington, D.C., making it an ideal living situation for commuters. With a local per capita income rate of $69k, Alexandria is a fantastic option for Virginia’s upper echelon.
8. Fairfax
Fairfax is a rich city with plenty to offer. Home to a dynamic population of roughly 24,000 people, this city is best known for its vibrant downtown area, highly-rated school systems, and rich local history. The most considerable historical landmarks within the city include the Fairfax County Courthouse and the Ratcliffe-Allison Pozer House, both of which provide important insights into the area’s historical significance. Other favorite attractions include the Fairfax County Government Center Park, Burke Lake Park, and the annual Chocolate Lovers Festival. With a per capita income rate of $57k, Fairfax is perfect for those who prefer an upscale area with a rich history.
9. Herndon
Herndon is another one of the richest places in Virginia. Situated in Fairfax County, Herndon is a peaceful town within the Washington DC metro area. It has a population of 24,456 as of the 2020 census.
It’s within the Dulles Technology Corridor, a business cluster containing several prominent defense and technology companies such as AOL and Verizon Business. The largest employers in the community are Amazon Web Services, Peraton, and Serco.
As a result, Herndon is one of the wealthiest towns in Virginia, with a per capita income of $55K and a median household income of $133,403. The average home price in Herndon is $683,257.
10. Manassas
Manassas is also one of the richest cities in Virginia. Located in Northern Virginia, Manassas is also within the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metro area and has a population of 42,728 residents.
It’s a major hub for tech, healthcare, and defense with major employers like Micron Technology, Lockheed Martin, and Novant Health. However, only about 11% of residents live and work in the city, while 89% commute.
Manassas is an affluent community with a median household income of $110,559 and a per capita income of $52K. The average price of a home in Manassas is $497,247.