The Fastest Growing Areas in the DMV Region

A booming job market, a thriving cultural and entertainment scene, diverse cultures – for these reasons and many more, the DMV (Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) area continues to grow. Metropolitan Washington is one of the most educated and affluent places in the U.S., and housing construction can barely keep up with population and job growth. The whole region is growing, but what particular areas are seeing the biggest surge?

 

 

According to the most recent census data, the three fastest growing DMV cities in Virginia are:

 

Population: 10,063

Growth in the past decade: 41.7%

 

Located in Loudoun County, Purcellville’s small town charm is particularly appealing to families. Although it doesn’t have as many shopping options that a larger city offers, its dining options are appealing, and the town is a great departure point for surrounding wineries, farms, and countryside adventures.

 

Population: 17,548

Growth in the past decade: 33%

 

Manassas Park is full of historic buildings that house restaurants, bars, and shops. The Amtrack Station and the Manassas Regional Airport make this city a good launching location for travel. Located in Prince William County, Manassas Park has housing that ranges from rental apartments to a broad range of single family homes.

 

Population: 53,731

Growth in the past decade: 32%

Historic Leesburg is Loudoun County’s seat. It is located at the base of Catoctin Mountain, 33 miles northwest of D.C., and is the northwestern terminus of the Dulles Greenway, a private toll road that connects to the Dulles Toll Road at Washington Dulles International Airport, making it a convenient place for travelers to live.

 

 

The suburbs of Maryland that have seen the largest growth include Rockville, Gaithersburg, and Frederick.

 

Population: 68,155

Growth in the past decade: 16.9%

 

Montgomery County’s seat, Rockville, is one of the largest communities in Maryland. It’s also one of the state’s oldest cities – although driving through it’s hard to tell. Shopping, dining, and entertainment options are abundant. This vibrant community has indoor and outdoor activities geared toward all ages and interests.

 

Population: 67,878

Growth in the past decade: 16.7%

 

Rockville’s neighbor, Gaithersburg, also has plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. And this modern city’s historical sites include the Clara Barton House (the founder of the American Red Cross) and Glen Echo Park – a former amusement park turned artist collective.

 

Population: 71,843

Growth in the past decade: 12.7%

 

A little less than an hour north of D.C., Frederick is “where hip meets historic.” Wineries, orchards, breweries, and hiking trails abound. The average commuting time is higher than other DMV areas, since Frederick is a bit further out, but housing is more affordable which may make the commute worth it.

 

 

The already densely-populated Washington, D.C. has seen staggering growth in its housing market over the last decade. Some neighborhoods are considered “transitioning,” shifting toward younger, more affluent residents. Many of the new residents are single and looking for a condo in a trendy or more affordable transitioning neighborhood. Here are a handful of fast-growing neighborhoods in D.C.

 

Growth in the past decade: 13.7%

 

This culturally diverse neighborhood in Adams Morgan is known for eclectic dining and nightlife. Union Market food hall, Gallaudet University, and National Public Radio are located in this area.

 

Growth in the past decade: 12.4%

 

This 500-acre neighborhood situated between I-395 and the Anacostia River offers urban-minded residents an active community with year-round recreation, from big-league sporting events to riverfront parks, restaurants, and other retail.

 

Growth in the past decade: 11%

 

This neighborhood is located one mile southeast of Howard University and is the home of Sirius XM Radio. The area is described as having an urban-suburban mix feel where residents can enjoy many restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and parks.

 

Growth in the past decade: 6.8%

 

This rapidly developing downtown zone is one of DC’s oldest neighborhoods, but now has a hip shopping and food scene. Situated east of the U Street corridor, this section is sometimes called “Black Broadway” from the time when acts like Pearl Bailey and Cab Calloway performed at local venues. Now, the legendary 9:30 Club also rocks this neighborhood.

 

Growth in the past decade: 6.7%

 

Houseboats – also called “liveaboards” – are one way people choose to reside in this area. The Wharf also boasts the nation’s longest continually operating open-air fish market. Waterfront dining and entertainment are contributing to this neighborhood becoming one of DC’s hottest.

 

Growth in the past decade: 5 to 7.9%

 

This is one of DC’s most attractive and flourishing neighborhoods. The beautiful Beaux-Arts Carnegie Library holds exhibit space for the Historical Society of Washington, D.C., and the neighborhood also has the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

 

Growth in the past decade: 4.3% to 7.5%

 

An abundance of Catholic churches – and Catholic University – has given Brookland the nickname “Little Rome.” The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is also located here; this is the largest Roman Catholic Church in North America. The surrounding neighborhood is filled with charming older homes and a central arts zone.