Fairfax NOVA Advantage

Quality of Life

Fairfax NOVA is Thriving

I have lived in Northern Virginia for 15 years. Nova is a great place to live and work because it’s thriving in all ways – economically as a destination for tech companies, socially with new restaurants, retail and entertainment sprouting everywhere, all populated with such beautiful diversity in our residents and visitors.

Sarah Kim

Chief Technology Office, Iron Bow Technologies

Fast Facts

15 of 20

of U.S. News & World Report’s Top 20 Virginia Public High Schools are in Fairfax NOVA

U.S. News & World Report, 2023

#5

Best U.S. High School (Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology)

U.S. News & World Report, 2023-2024

$145,164

Median Household Income in Fairfax County

Fairfax County

$648,270

Median Market Value of Owned Housing Units in Fairfax County

Fairfax County

A Lifestyle for the Ambitious

Where Work, Life and Well-being Collide

Fairfax NOVA’s quality of life is second to none. The future is made here, where the cost of living beats out tech hubs across the country and dynamic opportunities for recreation and relaxation enable a heightened state of clarity for era-defining work.

Families are drawn to the area for our exceptional K-12 schools, frequently ranked among the best in both the state and nation. Plus, commuting across the region is a breeze with an extensive network of transportation options that crisscross the region.

Fairfax NOVA Community Toolkit

Whether you want to reduce your commute or find a living community that’s high on the quality and low on the expense, these resources will set you on the right path.

Trailblazers in FFX NOVA

Meet Sarah Kim, our newest Trailblazer and Chief Marketing Officer at ‪@IronBowTechnologies‬. With 15 years of experience in marketing, Sarah shows why Fairfax NOVA is the career capital and one of the best places to live in the country.

Featured News

July 11, 2026

Virginia Climbs to #3 in CNBC’s Top States for Business

Virginia climbed to the No. 3 spot overall in CNBC’s 2026 America’s Top States for Business rankings, reinforcing the Commonwealth’s position as one of the nation’s premier destinations for business investment and long-term growth. The annual rankings recognize states that excel in the factors companies value most, including infrastructure, workforce, business competitiveness and quality of life. Virginia’s […]

Fairfax Companies Help Virginia Earn Golden Shovel Award; 17 Employers Honored for Commuter Excellence

Area Development Recognizes Two Fairfax NOVA Companies for Gold Shovel Award From life sciences to national security, Virginia’s diverse economy is cultivating a winning formula for economic growth and earning national recognition. The Commonwealth has been named a 2026 Gold Shovel Award recipient by Area Development, recognizing the nation’s top-performing states for attracting transformative investment, creating […]

FAIRFAX COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ANNOUNCES GEORGE D. THOMAS AS NEXT PRESIDENT AND CEO

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — The Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) Commission today announced the appointment of George D. Thomas as its next President and Chief Executive Officer, opening a new chapter of growth, innovation, and global competitiveness for one of the nation’s most dynamic economies. A globally recognized economic development executive, technology strategist, and […]

Arts, Entertainment & Nightlife

Our vibrant arts and entertainment scene enriches the cultural fabric of the region, with more than 30 art galleries and over 100 museums throughout Fairfax NOVA. Music enthusiasts enjoy world-class performances at venues like Jammin Java, recognized as one of the top 100 music venues globally, while cinema fans and music aficionados converge at the annual Northern Virginia International Film and Music Festival. Fairfax NOVA features fun for all ages — boasting close to 60 wineries and breweries and family-friendly activities like waterparks, children’s theaters, zipline courses and interactive STEM museums.

Healthcare

Renowned for its excellence and accessibility in healthcare, Fairfax NOVA puts wellness in high regard. Inova Fairfax Hospital is consistently ranked among the top 100 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report, exemplifying the region’s commitment to high-quality healthcare. Specialty care for children is provided by Inova Children’s Hospital and those in need of cancer treatment can turn to the esteemed Inova Schar Cancer Institute. With a total of 27 major healthcare facilities spread throughout the region, living in Fairfax NOVA means top-rated medical treatment is at your doorstep.

Housing

Whether you want an urban, suburban, small town or rural feel, you’ll find it all when living in Northern Virginia. Our wide range of residencies include planned communities developed by renowned homebuilders and stunning homes along the picturesque Potomac River, as well as affordable rentals, apartments and condominiums. Notably, Alexandria, Virginia earned recognition as one of the top 50 mid-sized real estate markets for 2023, reinforcing the region’s appeal as a dynamic and thriving housing market for individuals and families alike.