Howard Hills, Fort Myer, VA

Howard Hills Neighborhood Overview

Neighborhood Overview

Howard Hills is a well-established, residential neighborhood located in the Fort Myer area of Arlington, Virginia. This community is prized for its serene, tree-lined streets, mature landscaping, and a strong sense of privacy, while being situated just minutes from the dynamic urban core of Rosslyn and the Potomac River-facing views of the Washington, D.C. skyline. Its location offers an exceptional balance of suburban tranquility and metropolitan accessibility, making it a highly desirable enclave for professionals, military personnel, and families seeking proximity to the nation's capital.

The neighborhood's history is intertwined with the adjacent U.S. Army post, Fort Myer, and the broader development of North Arlington in the mid-20th century. Howard Hills primarily developed in the post-World War II era, with a building boom through the 1950s and 1960s, reflecting the architectural styles and community planning ideals of that period. This historical context contributes to its cohesive aesthetic and established feel, with many original homeowners and long-term residents fostering a stable community atmosphere.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Howard Hills is predominantly composed of classic detached single-family homes, featuring a mix of Colonial, Cape Cod, and Split-level architectural styles. Lot sizes are generous for Arlington, offering ample yard space and a sense of separation not always found in closer-in suburbs. With a median home value of $414,400, the market here represents a premium segment within the county, though it offers relative value compared to some adjacent neighborhoods. Price ranges typically span from the mid-$700s for well-maintained original homes to over $1.2 million for extensively renovated or newly constructed properties on the most desirable lots.

Howard Hills is overwhelmingly an owner-occupied community, with a very low rental mix that reinforces its stable, invested character. Recent trends show strong demand for properties that have been modernized with open-concept floor plans, updated kitchens and baths, and energy-efficient systems. There is also noticeable activity in tear-downs and significant expansions, as the location and lot sizes attract buyers looking to build custom homes. This dynamic creates a varied streetscape where classic mid-century homes sit alongside contemporary new constructions.

Lifestyle & Amenities

Residents of Howard Hills enjoy a lifestyle centered on convenience and outdoor access. While primarily residential, the neighborhood is a short drive or bike ride from the retail and dining hubs of Clarendon, Courthouse, and Ballston. A variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to upscale dining, boutique shopping, and major grocery stores like Whole Foods and Trader Joe's, are all within a 5-10 minute commute. The neighborhood itself offers a quiet retreat from these bustling commercial corridors.

Walkability within Howard Hills is moderate, with pleasant sidewalks ideal for dog walking and jogging, but most errands require a vehicle. Transit access, however, is excellent, with multiple Metrobus lines serving the area and the Rosslyn and Courthouse Metro stations (Blue, Orange, and Silver lines) easily accessible, providing a direct link to Washington, D.C. and beyond. Key recreational amenities include the nearby Fort Myer Golf Club, the scenic Custis Trail for cycling and running, and easy access to the extensive trails of the Arlington County park system, including Bon Air Park and its famous rose garden.

Schools & Education

Howard Hills is served by the highly acclaimed Arlington Public Schools system, a major draw for families. Students typically attend Key Elementary School, Swanson Middle School, and Washington-Liberty High School, all of which are consistently ranked among the top public schools in Virginia. These schools are known for strong academic programs, diverse extracurricular offerings, and significant community support. The investment in education is a cornerstone of the neighborhood's appeal and a key driver of its sustained property values.

Beyond the exceptional public schools, the area offers a wealth of educational options. Several prestigious private and parochial schools are located within a short radius, including St. Agnes School, St. Andrew's Episcopal School, and Bishop O'Connell High School. For higher education, the neighborhood's central location provides easy access to Georgetown University, George Washington University, and Marymount University. The presence of these institutions contributes to a highly educated community and a culture that values lifelong learning.

Community & Demographics

Howard Hills is characterized by a demographically stable and affluent community, with a median household income of $98,621, reflecting the high concentration of dual-professional households, military officers, and government contractors. The population is a mix of long-term residents who have raised families in the neighborhood and newer transplants attracted by its location and schools. This blend fosters a community with deep roots and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.

The age distribution is predominantly family-oriented, with a significant presence of residents in the 35-54 age range, alongside empty-nesters who appreciate the neighborhood's peace and accessibility. The community character is active and engaged, with neighbors often connecting through informal block gatherings, local school events, and community watch programs. While not dominated by formal homeowners' associations, there is a shared commitment to property upkeep and neighborhood integrity, which maintains the area's pristine appearance and collective property values.

Real Estate Market Insights

Howard Hills presents a compelling case for long-term real estate investment and stable value appreciation. Its market is underpinned by immutable fundamentals: location within Arlington's sought-after school pyramid, proximity to major employment centers in Rosslyn, Ballston, and D.C., and a finite supply of single-family homes. The trend of renovation and redevelopment is a key market driver, as buyers are willing to pay a premium for move-in-ready or modern homes, while investors see value in updating older properties. This creates a multi-tiered market appealing to different buyer profiles.

Current dynamics favor sellers, with inventory typically low and desirable properties receiving multiple offers. However, the premium price point necessitates that homes are presented competitively and priced accurately. For real estate professionals, understanding the subtle value differentiators—such as walkability to specific amenities, lot topography, and modernization level—is crucial. The neighborhood matters because it represents a bellwether for the upper-mid market in North Arlington, demonstrating consistent demand even during broader market fluctuations. Its performance is closely tied to federal government and contractor employment stability, making it a relatively secure, if competitive, market segment to serve.

Howard Hills Market Data

Top Real Estate Agents in Howard Hills, Fort Myer

Nearby Neighborhoods in Fort Myer, VA

← Back to all Fort Myer, VA real estate agents

← Back to all Virginia real estate agents