For the serious seeker or investor Fairfax has a lot to offer in its variety of housing facilities. From estate homes, to apartments and penthouses Fairfax has them all. There are plenty of options in the condos, townhouses and single family homes. There is no dearth of quality housing options of any kind

Numerous students, working professionals' government and temporary employees have their abodes at Fairfax, which has created an extensive demand for housing in the town. Most of the students who come from all over the world are pursuing their higher studies at George Mason University. The real estate is hence a mix of houses for sale and rent. There has been a rise in the demand for both permanent and temporary residences. The real estate amply reflects Fairfax's rich historical past and the various architectural styles prevalent in the town. Some of the traditional architecture is similar to that found in other parts of Virginia.

The city has numerous planned housing complexes. Many of the housing options available are cost effective and people looking towards houses for purchase or rent will absolutely love them.
The Fairfax city first became a part of Greater Washington in 1904 when an electric trolley line ran from Fairfax to downtown DC. Since then the Fairfax city has only been prospering with the median household income within Fairfax County almost double compared to the rest of the state at $81,050 per year. A glance at the real estate pricing would reveal that in the year 2005, the median resale price for single family detached houses was $425,000. For townhouses, the median price was $230,000, and for condominium garden apartments, the median price was $215,000. However the cost of new home construction is substantially higher, new home prices averaged more than $408,600. In general the trend is of high disposable incomes and affordable housing costs.

The city has two pleasant neighboring areas Oakton and McLean. Oakton, Virginia was recently named by the Money Magazine, as one of the "Best Places to Live". Its closeness to places such as Washington, D.C. and the Technology Corridor offer residents a vast variety of employment opportunities. It also lies within a short drive's distance from the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains, which is most favored by locals for its impressive array of recreational activities.

The town of McLean provides a similar atmosphere, with excellent schools and a family-focused environment. Most of the residents in this region are a well-educated group of professionals. They enjoy living in the area for the traditional American setting it provides. McLean also happens to be rich in history. It hosts plenty of fairs and festivals, some of which have their roots in the nation's founding. One of the most popular among locals and tourists is the McLean Day festival, offering residents such diverse entertainment as a tennis tournament, fun-run, battle of the bands, and a family carnival.
Other much anticipated events at McLean include the epicurean Taste of McLean and the Fall Cultural Festival.