The Cedars, Fort Myer, VA

The Cedars Neighborhood Overview

Overview

The Cedars is a prestigious and historic neighborhood located within the larger Fort Myer military post in Arlington, Virginia. Its character is defined by stately homes, mature tree-lined streets, and a profound sense of privacy and security, as it is situated on an active U.S. Army installation. The neighborhood's history is deeply intertwined with the U.S. military, with many homes originally built to house senior officers and their families. Its location offers unparalleled proximity to the Pentagon, Washington D.C., and the Rosslyn-Ballston corridor, while maintaining a secluded, park-like atmosphere distinct from the surrounding urban density.

Access to The Cedars is controlled, as it lies behind the gates of Fort Myer and adjacent to the even more exclusive Quarters One, the home of the Army's Chief of Staff. This gated access contributes to its quiet, secure, and close-knit community feel. Residents enjoy views of the Washington Monument and the D.C. skyline, with the grounds meticulously maintained by the Army. The neighborhood is not just a residential area but a piece of living history, adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery and the hallowed grounds of the post, which include the Old Guard Museum and the Caisson stables.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in The Cedars consists primarily of large, detached single-family homes, many of which are historic Colonial, Georgian, or Cape Cod-style residences built in the mid-20th century. These homes are substantial in size, featuring generous lots, mature landscaping, and architectural details that reflect their military heritage. Due to its location on federal land, homes are leased, not owned, by residents through a unique system managed by the Army's Housing Division. Tenants are typically high-ranking military officers, senior government officials, and other personnel eligible for residence on the installation.

As there is no traditional private real estate market, there are no public price ranges or sales data. The "cost" is tied to the resident's military rank and housing allowance. The exclusivity and limited inventory mean turnover is relatively low, and homes are highly sought after by those eligible. The properties are maintained to high standards, with renovations and updates managed by the garrison, preserving the historic and uniform character of the neighborhood while ensuring modern livability.

Schools & Education

Children residing in The Cedars are served by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) school system, a significant draw for military families. The local on-post school is Fort Myer Elementary School, which provides a highly-rated education with small class sizes and programs tailored to the mobile lifestyle of military children. For older students, the neighborhood is zoned for Arlington Public Schools, which are consistently ranked among the best in the nation, including nearby Washington-Liberty High School.

The combination of access to the dedicated, on-post elementary school and the exceptional Arlington County school system for upper grades is a major community benefit. Furthermore, the proximity to Washington D.C. provides access to numerous private school options, prestigious universities like Georgetown and George Mason, and the cultural and educational resources of the nation's capital, making it an ideal location for families prioritizing education.

Parks & Recreation

Residents of The Cedars enjoy immediate access to the expansive and historic grounds of Fort Myer itself, which function as a private, sprawling park. This includes vast open fields, parade grounds, walking paths, and picnic areas under a canopy of majestic trees, including the cedars for which the neighborhood is named. The installation features tennis courts, a fitness center, swimming pools, and community clubs exclusively for military personnel and residents.

Beyond the post gates, the neighborhood is adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery, offering solemn, reflective walking grounds with profound historical significance. A short drive or walk provides access to the extensive Arlington County park system, including the nearby Potomac River trails, Theodore Roosevelt Island, and the Mount Vernon Trail for cycling and running. The recreational blend of private military facilities and world-class public parks is unmatched in the region.

Local Dining & Shopping

Daily conveniences are available at the Fort Myer Exchange (a small PX) and the Commissary on post, providing discounted groceries and household goods to eligible personnel. For dining, the historic Officer's Club and various on-post cafes offer casual and formal options within the secure environment. The true strength of the location, however, is its proximity to some of Arlington and Washington D.C.'s best retail and culinary corridors.

The vibrant Clarendon and Ballston neighborhoods are just minutes away, offering a vast array of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining, boutique shops, and major retailers. The Rosslyn metro station provides easy access to downtown D.C. for an even broader selection. For grocery needs, high-end options like Whole Foods in Clarendon and local favorites like the Fresh Market are a short drive from the post's gates, blending everyday military-post convenience with metropolitan choice.

Who Lives Here

The Cedars is home to a highly transient but elite community of senior military officers (typically Colonels and Generals), top-tier Department of Defense civilians, and other high-ranking government officials. The population is characterized by a strong sense of duty, service, and protocol, with many residents having served multiple assignments around the world. This creates a community with shared experiences and values, where neighbors understand the unique demands of military and public service life.

The community vibe is one of dignified quiet, privacy, and mutual respect, fostered by the secure environment and the shared status of residents. It draws those who value proximity to the Pentagon and D.C. without sacrificing a serene,

The Cedars Market Data

Top Real Estate Agents in The Cedars, Fort Myer

Nearby Neighborhoods in Fort Myer, VA

← Back to all Fort Myer, VA real estate agents

← Back to all Virginia real estate agents