History of Burke Centre
Burke Centre’s story begins in the early 1980s when it was conceived as a planned community aimed at providing a high quality of life through community design, amenities, and governance. The vision was to create a neighborhood where residents could enjoy both the serenity of suburban living and the benefits of a close-knit community.
The area was developed by Burke Centre, L.P., and the community was designed to be managed by the Burke Centre Conservancy, a homeowners association (HOA) which oversees the maintenance, community rules, and amenities. The Conservancy has been pivotal in shaping Burke Centre’s identity, ensuring that the community’s original ethos of conservation and communal living is preserved through its management policies and community events.
Historically, Burke Centre’s development was influenced by the broader suburban expansion around Washington, D.C., where there was a demand for housing that offered both accessibility to the city and a departure from urban life. The community was segmented into smaller neighborhoods – The Commons, The Landings, The Oaks, The Ponds, and The Woods – each with its own set of amenities like pools, parks, and playgrounds, fostering a sense of smaller, interconnected communities within the larger Burke Centre.
Demographics
As of the most recent data, Burke Centre has a population of approximately 17,518 (Burke Centre CDP, 2020 Census). The demographic profile of Burke Centre reflects a diverse community with a median age of around 39.6 years (Data USA, 2022). This diversity is evident in the racial and ethnic composition, with a significant portion of the population being White (Non-Hispanic), followed by Asian (Non-Hispanic) and White (Hispanic) residents.
The median household income here stands notably high at $172,432, indicating an affluent community where professionals, particularly in management, computer & mathematical, and business & financial operations, are predominant (Data USA, 2022). Education levels are also high, with many residents having attained a bachelor’s degree or higher, which aligns with the area’s economic profile.
The community’s lifestyle is family-oriented, with excellent access to Fairfax County’s highly-rated public schools like Terra Centre Elementary and Robinson Secondary School. This focus on education and family life is a key demographic driver, attracting families from across the region seeking a safe, community-centric environment.
Real Estate Trends
Burke Centre’s real estate market is characterized by its stability and appeal, thanks to its planned community design and amenities. Here are some key trends:
Housing Types and Prices: The real estate landscape in Burke Centre predominantly features single-family homes, townhouses, and condos. The median listing home price in November 2024 was around $649,000, marking an 11.2% increase from the previous year (RocketHomes, 2024). This reflects a robust demand for property in the area, with homes selling relatively quickly, averaging about 15 days on the market (RocketHomes, 2024).
Market Dynamics: The market has seen fluctuations in inventory, with a noted decrease in available homes for sale, particularly in larger bedroom configurations. This scarcity can drive up prices, as seen with 46.7% of homes sold below asking price in November 2024, suggesting a seller’s market where buyers may face competition (RocketHomes, 2024).
Community Amenities Influence: The presence of extensive community amenities like walking trails, multiple pools, and community centers significantly influences property values and desirability. Properties within Burke Centre Conservancy often command a premium due to the added value these amenities provide.
Future Trends: With Fairfax County continuing to grow and evolve, Burke Centre is likely to see sustained interest due to its strategic location, quality of life, and community governance. However, with broader economic factors like interest rates and employment shifts in the D.C. metro area, real estate dynamics could change, potentially affecting affordability and demand.
Conclusion
Burke Centre Conservancy/Commons stands out as a successful model of community planning in Fairfax County, Virginia. Its history reflects thoughtful development aimed at creating a sustainable, engaging community. The demographic profile showcases a well-educated, affluent population drawn by the promise of a high quality of life. Real estate trends indicate a competitive market, bolstered by the community’s amenities and governance. As Fairfax County and the surrounding region continue to develop, Burke Centre will likely remain a desirable location, balancing growth with the preservation of its community-centric ethos. However, like all real estate markets, it will not be immune to broader economic shifts, which will continue to shape its future trajectory.
