Living in Ashburn VA 

Living in Ashburn VA offers a unique blend of suburban charm and modern amenities. Nestled in the heart of Loudoun County, this vibrant community has become a sought-after destination for families and professionals alike. With its top-rated Loudoun County Public Schools, thriving real estate market, and proximity to Washington D.C., Ashburn Virginia has established itself as a premier location for those seeking a high quality of life.

For those considering a move to the area, understanding the local lifestyle is crucial. From the bustling One Loudoun mixed-use development to the prestigious Belmont Country Club, Ashburn and neighboring Brambleton Virginia provide diverse options to suit various preferences. The upcoming Silver Line Metro extension promises to boost connectivity, while the family-friendly neighborhoods and strong sense of community continue to attract new residents. This article aims to shed light on the essential aspects of living in these dynamic Northern Virginia communities, including their history, job market, cost of living, and cultural offerings.

History and Development

From farmland to tech hub

Ashburn, Virginia, has undergone a remarkable transformation from a quiet rural area to a thriving technology hub. The catalyst for this change was the establishment of MAE-East, the Internet's first major interconnection point, in the late 1990s. This development attracted tech companies, with Equinix building its first data center in Ashburn in 1998. The Equinix campus quickly became the web's busiest meeting place, creating a powerful network effect that continues to shape the local real estate market.

Future development plans

Ashburn's growth shows no signs of slowing down. Several major developments are underway or planned:

1. Loudoun Station: Phase 2 has been approved for 1,159 residential units and 166,145 square feet of retail space.
2. Gramercy District: A 24-acre "smart city" development with 2,105 residential units and 2.8 million square feet of mixed-use space.
3. Moorefield Station: A 592-acre development that will house up to 6,000 homes and 10 million square feet of commercial and retail space.
4. One Loudoun: Ongoing expansion includes a 350+ apartment complex and a new Tru by Hilton hotel.

These developments, along with projects like The Hub and Silver District West, demonstrate Ashburn's commitment to creating diverse, vibrant communities that cater to the needs of its growing population.

Job Market and Economy

Ashburn, Virginia, has transformed into a thriving economic hub within the Washington metropolitan area. The city's job market has experienced remarkable growth, with Loudoun County being one of the fastest-growing job markets in the U.S. Today, 11,900 businesses employ more than 166,000 people in the region, including over 230 organizations that employ 100 or more individuals.

Major employers

Ashburn has attracted numerous major employers, contributing significantly to the local economy. Some of the prominent companies include:

1. Amazon Web Services (AWS): A leading provider of cloud computing services with multiple data centers in the area.
2. Verizon Communications Inc.: A telecommunications giant with a large data center serving as a hub for its fiber-optic network.
3. Microsoft Corporation: Operating one of the world's largest data centers in Ashburn, supporting cloud-based services like Azure and Office 365.
4. Raytheon Company: Focusing on cybersecurity, mission systems integration, and intelligence solutions.
5. Loudoun County Public Schools: The third-largest school division in Virginia, employing more than 11,000 people.

Tech industry presence

Ashburn has emerged as a technology and business center, earning its reputation as the "Data Center Alley." The city's strategic location near Washington, D.C., has made it a magnet for technology companies and government contractors. The presence of a highly skilled workforce and robust infrastructure has attracted businesses in the unmanned systems sector, including drones, autonomous vehicles, and robotics.

Companies like Xelevate, The Flying Ship Company, and L3Harris Unmanned Systems have benefited from Ashburn's tech-friendly environment. The area has also seen advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) applications across various industries, from manufacturing and logistics to healthcare and agriculture.

Employment opportunities

The job market in Ashburn offers diverse employment opportunities across multiple sectors. The technology industry, in particular, has a strong presence, with opportunities ranging from entry-level to executive positions. Other sectors with significant job openings include:

1. Healthcare: Positions at facilities like Stone Springs Hospital Center
2. Education: Roles within Loudoun County Public Schools and George Washington University's Virginia Science and Technology Campus
3. Research: Opportunities at institutions like the Howard Hughes Medical Institute
4. Finance: Positions with organizations such as Fannie Mae

As Ashburn continues to grow and attract new businesses, the job market is expected to remain robust, offering a wide range of opportunities for professionals across various industries.

Cost of Living

Living in Ashburn VA offers a high quality of life, but it comes with a higher cost of living compared to the national average. Michelle Williams, an expert Broker, provides valuable insights into the financial aspects of residing in these areas.

Taxes

Ashburn, VA, has a combined sales tax rate of 6%, which includes:

Virginia State Sales Tax: 4.3%

Loudoun County Sales Tax: 1%

Special District Tax: 0.7%

This total rate is higher than 88% of Virginia localities.

Daily Expenses

The cost of living in Ashburn is approximately 149% of the national average, indicating higher expenses across various categories.

However, this is balanced by higher incomes in the area. The median household income in Ashburn is $147,192, which is 68% more than the state average.

Despite the higher costs, Ashburn offers numerous amenities that contribute to its appeal, including low crime rates, excellent schools, and easy access to facilities like Dulles Airport and popular retail centers.

Culture and Community

Diversity

Ashburn, VA boasts a diverse population of 45,500 residents with a median age of 40.9 years. The community's ethnic makeup reflects its multicultural character, with White (Non-Hispanic) residents comprising 55.8% of the population, followed by Asian (Non-Hispanic) at 21%, Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) at 7.42%, White (Hispanic) at 4.83%, and Two+ (Non-Hispanic) at 4.82%. This diverse mix contributes to a rich cultural tapestry that enhances the local lifestyle and creates a welcoming environment for families from various backgrounds.

Local events and festivals

The Ashburn and Brambleton communities offer a vibrant calendar of events that cater to residents of all ages. Some notable events include:

1. LIVE at the Barn: Concert Series
2. Late Night Swim & Movie
3. Food Truck Thursday
5. Back to School Family Fun Fair
6. Livin' It Up In Loudoun - Family Fest
7. National Night Out in Middleburg
8. Leesburg Festival of Crafts & Kites at Ida Lee Park

These events foster a sense of community and provide opportunities for residents to connect with their neighbors while enjoying various activities.

Conclusion

Ashburn VA offers a unique blend of suburban charm and modern amenities, making them attractive destinations for families and professionals alike. With top-rated schools, a thriving job market, and a strong sense of community, these areas provide a high quality of life. The ongoing developments and future plans ensure that these communities will continue to grow and adapt to the needs of their residents.

While the cost of living in Ashburn and Brambleton is higher than the national average, it's balanced by higher incomes and numerous amenities that contribute to the area's appeal. The diverse population and vibrant community events create a welcoming environment for people from all backgrounds. Michelle Williams, your Boots on the Ground Broker and Certified Military Relocation Specialist, offers expert guidance for those looking to buy or sell in Northern Virginia with over 20 years of experience and a competitive 4% listing fee. For more tips and information, feel free to contact her and follow her on social media on Facebook @mmkrealtyllc and Instagram @mmkrealty.