Clarendon vs. Ballston: Which Arlington VA Neighborhood Fits Your Lifestyle?

Thinking about moving to Arlington—or just tired of long commutes? Clarendon and Ballston are two of the most popular, walkable, and Metro-friendly spots in Arlington. Here’s a clear, people-first comparison to help you choose confidently.

Clarendon: Trendy, social, and perfect for nightlife

Clarendon is Arlington’s social heartbeat—brunch spots, coffee shops, and a lively night scene within a few blocks. Live here if you want to walk out your front door and be in the middle of it all.

Vibe: Energetic, social, boutique-forward.
Metro: Clarendon (Orange/Silver).
Housing: Luxury condos and modern apartments near the core; charming single-family homes on leafy side streets.
Daily life: Weekend patios, boutique fitness, community events.

Ballston: Modern, convenient, and commuter-friendly

Ballston has evolved into a polished, mixed-use hub anchored by Ballston Quarter. It’s a touch calmer than Clarendon and excels at convenience.

Vibe: Sleek, convenient, community-forward.
Metro: Ballston–MU (Orange/Silver).
Housing: High-rise apartments and newer condos; nearby neighborhoods offer single-family options.
Daily life: Fitness studios, shops, parks, farmers markets, and frequent events.

Clarendon vs. Ballston: Quick comparison

Feature	Clarendon	Ballston
Overall vibe	Social, trendy, nightlife-forward	Modern, convenient, balanced
Metro access	Clarendon Station (Orange/Silver)	Ballston–MU Station (Orange/Silver)
Housing mix	Condos/apartments near core; older SFHs nearby	High-rises/newer condos; SFHs in surrounding areas
Lifestyle anchors	Brunch, patios, boutique shops & fitness	Ballston Quarter, studios, parks & events
Best fit	Young professionals & social-scene seekers	Pros/commuters & anyone prioritizing convenience

Which one is right for you?

Choose Clarendon if you want to live in the middle of Arlington’s social scene. Choose Ballston if you want a modern, convenient lifestyle with easy commuting and a little more calm. The good news: you can’t go wrong—your priorities will point to the right match.

Next steps

If you’re ready to explore homes or just want advice on which Arlington neighborhood fits you best, I’d love to help.