Fairfax, VA 243 Apartments for Rent

A history dating back to the 18th century gives the city of Fairfax, Virginia a “sense of place,” even though it is located within one of the most heavily populated areas in the east.

Considered separate from Fairfax County, the city nevertheless serves as the county seat. With Washington, D.C. just a short drive away, Fairfax offers a combination of opportunity and growth while retaining its historical charm. The Fairfax Museum and Visitor’s Center showcases the city’s Civil War-era heritage and provides a doorway to other sites in the region, including Manassas and Skyline Drive. Civil War re-enactments, historical sites, art shows, theatrical performances, and various festivals ensure that there's always plenty to do in Fairfax.

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Finding an Apartment in Fairfax

Being prepared well in advance of starting your search for places to rent in Fairfax will make the process go much more smoothly. Try going to meet with a landlord empty-handed, and you won't be signing any apartment lease. Instead, have a recent credit report, rental history, references, and proof of income available for prospective landlords. While housing in this region is more expensive than in most, the benefits of life in the productive and charming city of Fairfax is worth the price.

Property rentals here come in all shapes and sizes, including townhouses, condominiums, single homes, and apartments. You'll find everything from basic studio dwellings to premier apartments that come complete with furnishings and on-site swimming pools. This is a popular place to live and work, so start the search for a new home early. It's also not for the faint of wallet, with real estate being among the most expensive in the country. If you do find a suitable place within your budget, have all your papers and money in order--you may have to pounce!

Fairfax Neighborhoods

The city encompasses a number of neighborhoods with a wide range of places for rent. Here's a speedy insider's guide to the various 'hoods:

Fairfax Station: This is the largest area geographically and is also the priciest. Fairfax Station does include Piney Branch Stream Valley Park and the Country Club of Fairfax for recreational opportunities. $$$$$

Mantua: Found in the northeast corner of the city, the prices here are mid-range to high. Eakin Community Park offers trails and woodlands for hiking and outdoor fun. $$$$-$$$$$

City Center: This area is just what it says. It's located in the heart of the city, with Fairfax Boulevard running through its center. Housing for rent is more affordable than in some other areas of the city, and the central location offers easy access to dining and shops downtown. $$$$

Dixie Hill/Legato: This portion of the city offers rental apartments located within charming row homes. The real estate is newer than in other areas. The neighborhood attracts many college students in search of housing, so timing is everything if you want to avoid collegiate competition. $$$

Penderbrook/Fairfax Farms: This neighborhood offers some of the lowest priced rental apartments in Fairfax, so if your wallet is feeling light, start here. $$

Life in Fairfax

Travel into and out of Fairfax is very convenient, with US-50 and US-29 converging within city limits. Transportation around town is provided by bus service, and the Washington MetroBus also provides service to D.C. (call it "the city" to sound like a local). Redevelopment within Old Town Fairfax has provided more office space, retail opportunities, and a variety of places to live around town. This, coupled with a strong school system and a higher than average median income, makes Fairfax an appealing place to live and work. Workers in management and administrative support, as well as computer science professionals, gravitate to the city for its employment opportunities. History, nature, and culture are ready to welcome you to Fairfax!