Falls Church

Falls Church Virginia Real Estate  

The City of Falls Church is a special community. It contains many attributes that make it vibrant, progressive and attractive place to live including responsive local government, citizen involvement, an excellent public school system, tree preservation and planting, and historic preservation. Falls Church may be a city by name and a metropolitan suburb by locale, but it has the heart and soul of a village,” according to one life-long resident.

Falls Church boasts a family-friendly environment with top-ranked education systems and low crime rates compared to other regions. The city also provides numerous outdoor recreation opportunities such as parks and trails that cater to families seeking an active lifestyle. The City of Falls Church itself is a highly walkable area experiencing an explosion of new development (West Falls) due to its proximity to D.C. and small-town charm. For families, Falls Church offers plenty of parks, eateries, stores and amusement.

The City of Falls Church is currently both working to preserve its historical charm while also embracing strategic revitalization. For example, the  West Falls project broke ground in 2022 and entered its first phase of development. West Falls, described as a “vibrant community coming to Falls Church” (Leesburg Pike and Haycock Road) on the project website, will be a nearly 10-acre, mixed-use development near the West Falls Church Metro station. The goal of this development project is to establish the community of West Falls as a gateway to the city of Falls Church. Residents can expect at least 10-15 years of ongoing revitalization efforts in and around their neighborhoods.

The City of Falls Church vs. Falls Church

The City of Falls Church is an independent municipality, separate from the surrounding Arlington and Fairfax Counties with its own school system. Falls Church dates back to the late 1600s as an early Colonial settlement shared with Native Americans. The community was established around The Falls Church (Episcopal) that was founded in 1734. Falls Church became a township in 1875, and an independent city in 1948. More information about the city's storied past is available at the Mary Riley Styles Public Library Local History Room. The local blog Ghosts of DC has an irreverent and fun short history of Falls Church, too. Falls Church dates back to the late 1600s as an early Colonial settlement shared with Native Americans.

Conversely, Falls Church, often referred to as Greater Falls Church or the unincorporated area, lies outside the city limits and is part of Fairfax County. The city's corporate boundaries do not include all of the area historically known as Falls Church; these areas include portions of Seven Corners and other portions of the current Falls Church postal districts of Fairfax County, as well as the area of Arlington County known as East Falls Church, which was part of the town of Falls Church from 1875 to 1936.

Demographics in Each Location

• The City of Falls Church:
  Known for its small-town atmosphere with tree-lined streets and historic buildings, this area boasts a diverse population with higher median household incomes compared to surrounding regions.
• Falls Church (unincorporated):
  This region features more suburban neighborhoods catering primarily to middle-class families looking for affordable housing options while still enjoying proximity to Washington D.C., making it popular among commuters working in nearby cities.

Falls Church is a great city to live in, with both its historical background and modern amenities. It's highly rated schools make it an ideal place for families looking to settle down or invest in property. Moving on from the City of Falls Church vs. Falls Church comparison, let us explore some of the highly rated schools available within this vibrant community.

Highly Rated Schools in Falls Church, Virginia

Falls Church, in Fairfax County of Northern VA, is renowned for its schools that give pupils a great base to excel academically. Families who value education will find an array of excellent public and private school options within the city limits.

Notable Public Schools in the Area

The Falls Church City Public School System boasts four highly regarded schools: Mount Daniel Elementary School, Oak Street Elementary, Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School, Meridian High School. These institutions consistently receive high rankings on various educational review websites such as GreatSchools. The commitment to quality education has led to impressive student achievements like high test scores and graduation rates.

Mount Daniel Elementary School

Location: 2328 North Oak St.
Mt. Daniel Elementary School is a highly rated, public school located in FALLS CHURCH, VA. It has 459 students in grades K-2 with a student-teacher ratio of 18 to 1.

Oak Street Elementary

Location: 601 South Oak St.
Oak Street Elementary School is a public school in Falls Church, Virginia that is part of Falls Church City Public School District. It serves 840 students in 2 - 5 with a student/teacher ratio of 18.3:1.

Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School

Location: 105 Mustang Alley
Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School is a highly rated, public school located in FALLS CHURCH, VA. It has 597 students in grades 6-8 with a student-teacher ratio of 14 to 1. According to state test scores, 89% of students are at least proficient in math and 91% in reading.

Meridian High School

Location: 121 Mustang Alley
An International Baccalaureate World School, Meridian High School serves some 850 students in grades 9-12 with a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1.

Private School Options Available

In addition to exceptional public schools, Falls Church also offers several esteemed private institutions catering to different age groups and learning needs. Some notable options include St. James Catholic School, which serves Pre-K through 8th grade students; Congressional School, a co-ed independent day school for infants through 8th grade; and Grace Christian Academy, offering K-12 education with a focus on individualized learning plans. Falls Church Virginia offers a variety of highly rated public and private schools, ensuring that families have access to quality education.

Acton Academy Falls Church

Location: 513 W Broad St #110c
Montessori and Acton methods. An innovative Christian non-denominational school helping children find their calling to change the world. Ages 3-13.

Congressional School

Location: 3229 Sleepy Hollow Rd.
An independent, day school serving K through 8th graders. Congressional School serves over 400 students and 2,000 campers annually through its academic and summer programs.

Grace Christian Academy

Location: 3233 Annandale Rd.
An affordable preK-8th grade education featuring strong academics, a Biblical foundation, and a loving, family environment. Our low faculty to student ratio allows us to provide an education that sets each scholar up for success in high school and college.

Saint James Catholic School

Location: 830 W Broad St.
A Catholic K-8 school Administered by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary since 1923 "Where Jesus is the Center, and Mary is the Model." Three-Time U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon School Award-Winner.

St. Anthony of Padua

Location: 3301 Glen Carlyn Rd.
St. Anthony of Padua is a parish school founded in 1952. Located in the Diocese of Arlington, St. Anthony School operates under the guidance of the Office of Catholic Schools. Grades K-8.

List of Popular Daycare Providers

• Easterseals Child Development Center: Easterseals Child Development Centers provide inclusive, high-quality services in a unique and developmentally appropriate environment for children under 5 years of age.
• Falls Church Preschool and Daycare: A Full Day, Classical English-Russian-French Preschool emphasizing academics, character development, and social-emotional development. 
• Grace Christian Academy Preschool & Kindergarten: Grace Christian Academy Preschool & Kindergarten offers a faith-based program for youngsters aged two and a half to five.
• Kids World: Kids
  World is Montessori program for infant through preschool age. Established in 1996 they understand the importance of early childhood development and language immersion.
• St Joseph's Preschool: St. Joseph’s preschool focuses on each child, helping meet their needs in the most developmentally appropriate environment possible.

Exploring the City of Falls Church

Falls Church City Center, also known as Little City or Downtown Falls Church features shops, restaurants along Broad Street (Route 7) & Washington Street (Route 29). This walkable area offers several amenities including parks & trails while hosting seasonal festivals & markets throughout the year.

Things to do in an around Falls Church City

Botanologica: Add Color to Your Life with Flowers & Plants

Location: 817 W Broad St.

For an array of colorful, unique gifts and fresh floral arrangements, Botanologica is the perfect destination. This fantastic flower shop offers a wide array of fresh flowers, plants, and unique gifts that will surely impress any recipient. In addition to beautiful floral arrangements and potted plants, Botanologica also carries handcrafted pottery pieces made by talented artisans from around the world.

Cherry Hill Park Community Events

Cherry Hill Park, situated in the center of town, is a hub for community activities and festivities like the Tinner Hill Heritage Music Festival honoring African American heritage through music and art, as well as Summer Concerts in the Park featuring local artists. Some popular events include the Tinner Hill Heritage Music Festival, which celebrates African American history through music and arts; as well as the Summer Concerts in the Park series that features live performances from local musicians.

Falls Church Farmers Market

Location: City Hall parking lot 300 Park Ave.

Open every Saturday year-round! April - December: 8am - 12pm. January - March: 9am - 12pm.
A popular farmers markets featuring high quality fruits, vegetables, and meats as well as specialty vendors selling crepes, Turkish pies, coffee, sausages, pickles, flowers, and a wide array of other food items. Enjoy generous free samples, coffee, friendly customer service. For parking, go to the Kaiser Permenante parking garage. It is free on the weekends and is a 2 minute walk from City Hall.

Mary Riley Styles Public Library

Location: 20 N Virginia Ave. 

The Mary Riley Styles Public Library serves the 15,000 residents of Falls Church and offers a variety of resources for its community. The Mary Riley Styles Public Library serves an important purpose in offering a variety of materials, activities, and services to meet the diverse needs of its patrons.

Collections and Resources Available at the Library

At Mary Riley Styles Public Library, visitors can find a vast collection of books, periodicals, DVDs, CDs, audiobooks, as well as access to digital resources such as e-books and online databases. The library also provides free Wi-Fi connectivity throughout its premises. Additionally, resources for research are available, including local history archives that offer valuable insights into Falls Church's past.

Programs and Events for All Age Groups

The library hosts various programs and events catering to different age groups - from toddlers to seniors. For children aged 0-5 years old, there are storytimes designed specifically with their developmental needs in mind, while school-aged kids can participate in book clubs or STEM workshops like coding classes or LEGO robotics sessions.

• Toddler Storytime: A program tailored for children aged 18 months - 3 years which includes stories, songs, rhymes, fingerplays, and more.
• Kids Book Club: An opportunity where young readers discuss their favorite titles, engage with peers, and develop critical thinking skills through lively discussions on selected themes/topics.

In addition, adults have access not only to informative lectures but also engaging workshops covering topics such as gardening, financial planning, or crafting. Seniors can join the Senior Center Book Club where they discuss various books while enjoying refreshments and camaraderie with fellow members.

W&OD Trail Through The City Center

Falls Church also boasts access to one of Northern Virginia's most beloved outdoor attractions: The Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) trail. This 45-mile-long paved trail passes right through the center of Falls Church offering residents and visitors alike opportunities for walking, running, cycling, or simply enjoying nature within this urban oasis. Learn more about the W&OD trail by visiting their official website here.

Exploring the City of Falls Church offers many attractions and activities to enjoy. With its vibrant dining scene, Falls Church is sure to provide a memorable experience for all visitors. Next up, we will explore some of the top dining experiences in this great city.

Outdoor Activities & Parks

The City of Falls Church is not only known for its charming atmosphere and delightful dining experiences but also boasts an impressive collection of 14 parks catering to various interests. For the thrill-seekers, Falls Church has a range of outdoor activities and parks to explore.

If you enjoy live music, make sure to attend the annual Tinner Hill Heritage Music Festival. This vibrant event celebrates local culture and heritage through diverse musical performances that cater to all tastes. Another popular outdoor entertainment option during summer months is the Summer Concerts in the Park series, where visitors can relax on their picnic blankets while enjoying tunes from talented musicians under starry skies.

• Tinner Hill Heritage Music Festival: Experience diverse musical acts celebrating local culture and history.
• Summer Concerts in the Park series: Enjoy free concerts at Cherry Hill Park throughout summer evenings.

Beyond these events, nature lovers will appreciate exploring numerous parks within this urban oasis. The famous W&OD trail passes right through Falls Church's city center, offering scenic views perfect for walking or biking excursions.

Family-Friendly Parks in Falls Church, Virginia

Berman Park

Location: Between 229 Kent St. and 234 Irving St.

This part features open areas large enough for small groups to kick a soccer ball around or play a game of catch, making it an ideal place for families and groups of friends to spend time together.

Big Chimneys Park

Location: 210 Gibson St.

Renovated in 2020, landscaped beds with an assortment of native plantings provide year round color and natural beauty. The historical significance of the park and its name is highlighted and noted through interpretative signage.

Cherry Hill Park

Location:  312 Park Ave.

Cherry Hill Park, situated in the heart of the City of Falls Church, is an ideal spot for families with its playgrounds, picnic areas, basketball courts, and historic farmhouse. The park also hosts various community events throughout the year.

Madison Manor Park

Location:  6225 12th Rd N.

A favorite among locals living within Fairfax County is Madison Manor Park. This park boasts multiple sports fields such as baseball diamonds and soccer pitches, along with walking trails that allow visitors to immerse themselves in nature while staying active.

In addition to these three popular options, there are many other local parks maintained by Fairfax County government agencies, ensuring residents have ample opportunities for outdoor fun and relaxation in Falls Church, Virginia.

Families looking to enjoy the outdoors in Falls Church Virginia have plenty of options with its many family-friendly parks. With excellent access to Washington D.C., low crime rates, and a wide variety of recreational activities, living in Falls Church is an ideal choice for those who want to experience all that Northern Virginia has to offer.

West End Park

Location:  1048 W Broad St.

West End Park features open green spaces suitable for picnics and outdoor games, as well as tennis courts and a playground area designed to cater to children of all ages.

Living Experience in Falls Church, Virginia

Falls Church, located in the heart of Fairfax County, offers residents a unique blend of urban convenience and suburban charm. With its close proximity to major highways like Route 66 and the Beltway, as well as easy access to metro stations for convenient transportation options, living in Falls Church provides an ideal balance between city life and serene neighborhoods.

Favorite Local Hangouts

Borek G Cafe & Market

Location: 315 S Maple Ave.
Mom's Cookin' now with a cafe & market in Falls Church. Popular spot known for friendly service, pastries, flatbreads. Serves some of the best mediterranean daily.

Clare & Don's Beach Shack

Location: 130 N Washington St.
For those craving fresh seafood dishes, The Clare & Don's Beach Shack offers a laid-back atmosphere reminiscent of a coastal getaway. With an extensive menu featuring options like crab cakes, fish tacos, and clam chowder, diners can enjoy the flavors of the ocean without leaving Northern Virginia. The restaurant also boasts an outdoor patio area where guests can relax and take in the views while savoring their meal.

Dogwood Tavern

Location: 132 W Broad St.
Exposed brick-&-beam tavern with upscale pub grub, a raw bar, live music & outdoor patio seating.

Harvey's

Location: 513 W Broad St.
Family-friendly 48-seat all-day restaurant serving American cuisine using locally sourced ingredients and features a small market selling beer, wine, and provisions.

Lantern House

Location: 1067 W Broad St.
Authentic Vietnamese bistro offering a wide variety of homemade dishes with the emphasis on fresh and local products derived from family recipes.

Rare Bird Coffee

Location: 230 W. Broad St.
A cozy specialty coffee roaster and bakery featuring high-quality coffee and food.They also offer classes in latte making, roasting fundamentals, and evaluating coffee quality.

Tasty Dumpling

Location: 1112 W Broad St.
Comfort food locale featuring a wide range of offerings including one kind of dumplings.

Accessibility to Washington D.C.

One of the main advantages of living in Falls Church is its accessibility to Washington D.C. Commuting into the nation's capital is made easier with multiple Metro stations nearby such as West Falls Church and East Falls Church. This makes it perfect for those who work or frequently visit downtown D.C., without having to deal with congested traffic or limited parking spaces.

Additionally, Metro announced in 2019 plans to redevelop the West Falls Church Metro Station site with FGCP-Metro, LLC, an affiliated partnership with EYA, LLC (EYA), Hoffman & Associates, and Rushmark Properties. "The redevelopment plans will create a vibrant, mixed-use community with over one million square feet of office, retail, and residential space." Construction to begin in 2023.

Safe Neighborhoods with Low Crime Rates

Safety is a top priority for families when choosing where they want their children to grow up. Fortunately, Falls Church boasts low crime rates, making it one of Northern Virginia's safest communities. The city's commitment towards maintaining safe streets can be attributed not only to vigilant law enforcement but also active community involvement through neighborhood watch programs and various safety initiatives undertaken by local organizations.

Average Price for a Single-Family Home

The average price for a single-family home in Falls Church is approximately $689,718 but varies depending on factors such as location, size, age of the property, and amenities offered.

Living in Falls Church VA offers a unique blend of suburban and urban living with top-ranked education systems, low crime rates, and ample outdoor recreation opportunities. With single-family homes ranging in price, there are various housing options available to suit everyone's needs. The area also boasts a diverse dining scene and amenities such as daycare facilities and libraries. Additionally, with its proximity to Washington D.C., residents can enjoy all the benefits of city life while still having a quiet and peaceful place to call home.

In Falls Church, you'll find an array of home styles that cater to different preferences and budgets. Some popular housing options in Falls Church include cozy bungalows, roomy townhouses, sleek condos and stately colonial-style dwellings. Many properties in this area also feature lush landscaping and ample outdoor space for families who enjoy spending time outside.

Whether you're looking for a small starter home or a luxurious estate, Falls Church has something to offer
everyone. Contact the Randy Huntley Home Selling Team to learn more about the available properties in this area and find your dream home today.

Types of Homes Available

In Falls Church, you'll find an array of home styles that cater to different preferences and budgets. Some popular housing options in Falls Church include cozy bungalows, roomy townhouses, sleek condos and stately colonial-style dwellings. Many properties in this area also feature lush landscaping and ample outdoor space for families who enjoy spending time outside.

Architectural Styles in Falls Church Virginia

Cape Cod Cottage Architecture Style

The Cape Cod Cottage is a simple one-and-a-half-story house often considered a subset of the Colonial Revival style. These charming homes typically feature steep roofs, central chimneys, dormer windows, and symmetrical facades that make them easily recognizable as part of New England's architectural heritage.

Key Characteristics of Cape Cod Cottage Design

• Steep Roofs:
  The steeply pitched gable roof allows for efficient water runoff and provides additional living space in the form of an attic or loft.
• Central Chimney:
  A large chimney located at the center of the home serves multiple fireplaces throughout, providing heat to all rooms during colder months.
• Dormer Windows:
  Dormers are small windows projecting from the slope of the roof which allow natural light into upper-level spaces while adding visual interest to exterior facades.
• Symmetrical Facade:
  Typically featuring a centered front door flanked by two multi-paned windows on either side, this balanced design creates an inviting entranceway and adds curb appeal to these timeless homes.

Historical Context Behind Their Popularity

Brought over by early English settlers in America during the late 17th century, Cape Cod Cottages quickly gained popularity due to their practicality and adaptability. They were easy to construct using local materials such as wood shingles for siding and roofing. As time went on, modifications were made, including additions like porches or wings added onto existing structures. This allowed homeowners flexibility in expanding their living space as needed.

Today, Cape Cod Cottages continue to be a popular choice for homeowners seeking a charming and functional home design. Their enduring appeal can be attributed to the style's versatility, which allows it to blend seamlessly with modern updates while still maintaining its historical charm. For those looking to buy or sell real estate in Northern Virginia, consider exploring Cape Cod homes that offer timeless beauty and practicality.

Colonial Revival Architecture in Falls Church

The architectural landscape of Falls Church is adorned with a variety of styles, one of which is the timeless Colonial Revival. This classic design has been popular since its emergence in the late 19th century and continues to be a favorite among homeowners today. Colonial Revival architecture features accentuated front doors with pediments or entry porches supported by slender columns that give homes an elegant appearance.

Key Characteristics of Colonial Revival Houses

• Symmetrical facades: The exteriors are typically well-balanced, often featuring evenly spaced windows on either side of the central entrance.
• Pitched roofs: These houses usually have steeply pitched roofs with gable ends facing the street.
• Decorative elements: Elements such as shutters, cornices, and dentil molding add visual interest to these stately homes.
• Multipane windows: Double-hung windows divided into small panes are common in this style, contributing to its traditional appeal.

Moderne

The Moderne style incorporates elements from streamlined designs originally developed for vehicles and aircraft into architecture. With clean lines, curved shapes, horizontal emphasis on building exteriors along with minimal ornamentation, it showcases how advancements in transportation influenced contemporary structures during its time period.

Origins & Development History

The Moderne architectural style, also known as Streamline Moderne or Ar Moderne, emerged in the 1930s as a response to the ornate and decorativ styles of previous decades. This new design approach focused on simplicity and functionality while incorporating influences from industrial design and technology advancements of that era. The result was an aesthetic characterized by sleek surfaces, smooth curves, and an overall sense of motion - all hallmarks of modern transportation at the time.

In the context of Falls Church and Northern Virginia real estate, the Moderne architectural style adds a unique touch to the area's diverse collection of properties. Whether you're looking to buy or sell in this region, understanding these design influences can help you appreciate the rich history and character that defines each home.