With so many people moving to Reston these days, we put together a list of what it is like living in Reston, Virginia. It is incredible to see the growth Reston has undergone since we first moved here in 1996. One thing about living in Reston, Virginia is that change is constant; yet, the quality of life remains the same. If you are considering a move to the Reston area, here are the seven things you need to know about living in Reston, Virginia.
1. Reston is a Model Planned Community
Reston was founded in 1964 by a man named Robert E. Simon. Most are unaware that Simon’s initials are how the town of Reston got its name – R.E.S. + Town = Reston. Simon’s goal was to create a community where one can live, work, and play without leaving the area. Reston is a planned community that is still used as a model for community development today.
2. Reston’s Location Can’t be Beat
Reston is situated directly in the heart of the Dulles Corridor. This densely populated area spans from the Washington Dulles Airport to Washington, D.C., and is home to many prominent technology companies. Reston is bisected by the Dulles Toll Road, which connects Loudoun County, Fairfax County, and Arlington County. Conveniently, Reston is only about a 10-minute drive from one of the country’s most prominent international travel hubs, Dulles International Airport.
While Reston has plenty of employment, places to recreate, and shopping and restaurants, it is only 15 minutes from Tysons, another major hub of activity.
Despite the famed D.C. Metro area traffic, Reston is only about 18 miles away from the capital, which makes the city only a 30-minute drive when not in rush hour.
3. Employment in Reston is Plentiful
Many companies relocate to the Reston area because of its proximity to Washington, D.C., and its well-educated population. Google, Facebook, Microsoft, and Oracle have all moved their East Coast headquarters to Reston. Well-known government contractors, like Bechtel, Leidos, and Northrup Grumman, have also made Reston their home. While more niche, education technology companies like Blackboard, Ellucian, and the CollegeBoard have prominent locations in Reston.
4. Reston has Lakefront Living
Many people are not aware that Reston is a lake town. There are five lakes located in Reston. In addition to owning a waterfront home, you can also use the lakes for recreation. Locals regularly go kayaking, canoeing, or even stand-up paddleboarding, many from right outside their front door. While you can’t have full-sized motorized boats, you can have a small pontoon boat that floats at 2-3 miles per hour.
5. Reston Amenities Managed by the Reston Association (R.A.)
The Reston Association (R.A.) is a homeowners association that maintains most of the amenities that Reston has to offer. There are 55 miles of trails, 1350 acres of woodlands and open space, 15 pools, 52 tennis courts, and more. The R.A. is responsible for the upkeep of all of these fantastic places. Reston also has the Walker Nature Center and a zoo called Roer’s Zoofari.
6. Reston is in the Fairfax County Public School District
Reston is a part of the Fairfax County school system, which is nationally ranked every year. There are eight elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. More information about Reston schools is available on Niche and GreatSchools.
7. Reston has Multiple Metro Stations
The Washington Metro system now extends out through Reston and into Loudoun County. The addition of the metro has fueled growth in the area, while providing an additional commuting option to Dulles Airport, Tysons, Arlington, and Washington D.C.
We’re Just Getting Started
These are just seven things you need to know about living in Reston, Virginia, but there are so many more. Stay tuned here and on our YouTube channel where we chronicle all the reasons to live, work, and play in the greater Reston area.
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