Living in Aurora Highlands feels a bit like stepping back in time—while enjoying all the perks of modern urban access. Tucked between Crystal City, Pentagon City, and the vibrant Pentagon Row, this residential neighborhood offers a unique blend of tranquility and connectivity that has won the hearts of families, young professionals, and longtime Arlingtonians alike. If you’re considering making Aurora Highlands your next home, here’s what you can truly expect.
Community Vibe: Friendly, Diverse, and Welcoming
One of Aurora Highlands’ standout features is its strong sense of community. Neighbors know each other, kids play together on quiet streets like 23rd Street S and Ives Street, and there’s a high level of civic engagement visible in the active Aurora Highlands Civic Association. Residents look out for one another, whether by organizing annual block parties, scheduling playdates at the neighborhood’s parks, or simply waving hello as they walk their dogs.
The population is a friendly mix—families with young kids, singles, retirees, and even a steady flow of professionals who work at the nearby Pentagon, Amazon HQ2, or downtown Washington, DC. Many homes have been in the same family for decades, with newer arrivals quickly absorbed into the existing warm circle of community events and neighborly support.
Types of Housing: Eclectic Charm Meets Modern Upgrades
Aurora Highlands’ residential streets are a true reflection of the area’s long history. Along leafy blocks, you’ll find a classic variety:
- Charming 1920s-1940s bungalows and Cape Cod-style homes, many lovingly updated
- Larger Craftsman-style houses and recently built luxury homes—mostly owner-occupied
- A handful of duplexes, brick row homes, and garden-style apartments, especially near 23rd Street S and the Arlington Ridge Road area
- Some mid-rise condos peppered along the neighborhood’s edge toward Pentagon City
This diversity appeals to homebuyers looking for everything from historic character homes to modern renovations. Generous yards, mature trees, and a generally low-rise residential feel make the streets feel open and inviting—perfect for those who value space without losing the benefits of city living.
Walkability: Leave the Car Behind
Aurora Highlands is truly walkable, and for many residents, life can be comfortably car-light. Sidewalks line nearly every street, and it’s a short stroll to everything from playgrounds and parks, to dozens of local restaurants and shops along 23rd Street S (think Bob & Edith’s Diner, Urban Thai, or Crystal City Wine Shop).
Commuters love that both the Crystal City and Pentagon City Metro stations are within easy walking or biking distance for most residents, and a network of Capital Bikeshare stations and dedicated bike lanes line the area. Whole Foods, Costco, great coffee, and local boutiques are all within reach on foot or by a quick scooter ride.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: A Top Choice for Arlington Families
Families are drawn to Aurora Highlands for its top-rated public schools and numerous kid-friendly amenities. The neighborhood is zoned for Arlington Public Schools, including:
- Oakridge Elementary School (right on S 24th St)
- Gunston Middle School
- Wakefield High School
Oakridge Elementary, in particular, has a solid reputation for its nurturing environment and diverse student body. The school itself serves as a central hub for family life, from after-school activities to community-wide celebrations.
Moreover, you’ll spot strollers and kids on bikes everywhere, as well as a steady stream of little league practices and weekend birthday parties in the local parks.
Parks and Green Spaces: Nature in Your Backyard
Despite its urban footprint, Aurora Highlands is bordered by—and filled with—green space. Residents rave about:
- Virginia Highlands Park: The neighborhood’s crown jewel, stretching along S Joyce Street. It features multiple sports fields, tennis and basketball courts, playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a sprayground for hot days. Plenty of comfortable benches and shade trees make this a go-to spot for relaxation.
- Fort Scott Park: Nestled closer to S Grant Street, this historic park offers a quieter retreat with walking paths, wooded areas, and room for family picnics.
- Several pocket parks and tot lots are sprinkled throughout the community, as well as lush, shady front yards that extend the sense of green space.
Whether you’re jogging before work, letting the kids burn off energy, or just reading a book in the sun, there’s always a peaceful patch of green nearby.
Safety: Peace of Mind around Each Corner
Aurora Highlands is widely recognized as one of Arlington’s safer neighborhoods. Its quiet streets, engaged residents, and walkable layout contribute to a relaxed, secure environment. Neighborhood Watch programs and regular police-community meetings help address issues quickly. It’s common to see neighbors keeping an eye out for each other, especially as families walk home from school or return from evening errands.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers: City Access without the Hassle
Living here puts you minutes from some of the DC region’s biggest employers—walking distance, in many cases:
- The Pentagon is just a stone’s throw north along S Joyce Street.
- Amazon’s growing HQ2 campus is practically in your backyard—meaning unrivaled convenience for tech professionals.
- Both the Pentagon and Crystal City Metro stations (Blue and Yellow lines) provide direct access to downtown DC, National Airport (DCA), and beyond.
- I-395 and Route 1 make driving into the city or out toward Alexandria and Fairfax County fast and straightforward.
Despite this accessibility, the neighborhood retains a surprisingly peaceful, residential feel.
What Residents Love Most: A Unique Blend of Old and New
Ask a handful of Aurora Highlands residents what they love about living here, and you’ll get answers like:
- The ability to walk to their favorite coffee shop or grocery store without crossing busy highways.
- How neighbors look after each other, especially during snow days or summer block parties on 22nd Street S.
- The charm of tree-lined streets and historic homes mixed with sleek, modern amenities just a few blocks away.
- The comfort of knowing their kids can safely bike to school or the local park.
- Being close to the action in Crystal City and Pentagon City—but coming home to quiet, leafy streets each evening.
People come for the location, but they stay for the community. For many, living in Aurora Highlands really is the best of both worlds: city connectivity with suburban comfort, all wrapped up in one of Arlington’s most beloved neighborhoods.