History
Reston, the planned community where Edgewater at Town Center is located, was founded in 1964 by Robert E. Simon Jr., who envisioned a self-contained urban area that balanced work, living, and recreation. Named after Simon’s initials (R.E.S.), Reston was one of the first master-planned communities in the United States, designed to integrate residential neighborhoods with commercial centers, parks, and amenities. The development of Reston Town Center in the late 1980s marked a significant milestone, transforming the area into a bustling urban core with high-rise offices, retail spaces, and residential units.
Edgewater at Town Center, built in the late 1990s, emerged as part of this urban expansion. The condominium complex was designed to cater to professionals, families, and retirees seeking modern, low-maintenance living within walking distance of Reston Town Center’s amenities, including shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Reston Art Gallery and the annual Reston Holiday Parade. The community’s architecture reflects the contemporary style of the late 20th century, with brick facades, spacious layouts, and amenities such as a fitness center, swimming pool, and secure parking.
The historical context of Fairfax County further enriches Edgewater’s story. Fairfax County has long been a hub of economic and cultural activity, driven by its proximity to the nation’s capital and the growth of industries like technology, defense, and government contracting. The expansion of the Dulles Corridor, including the opening of the Silver Line Metro in 2014 (with stations like Reston Town Center and Wiehle-Reston East), enhanced connectivity and spurred residential development in the area, including communities like Edgewater.
Demographics
Edgewater at Town Center’s demographics reflect the broader trends of Reston and Fairfax County, which are known for their diversity, affluence, and high educational attainment. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and local demographic studies, Reston has a population of approximately 60,000, with Fairfax County as a whole exceeding 1.1 million residents.
Age and Household Composition: Edgewater at Town Center attracts a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees. The median age in Reston is around 40, slightly younger than Fairfax County’s median of 38. Many residents are dual-income households, often working in nearby industries such as technology (e.g., Microsoft, Amazon Web Services) or government agencies.
Income and Employment: Fairfax County is one of the wealthiest counties in the U.S., with a median household income exceeding $120,000. Residents of Edgewater benefit from this economic prosperity, with many employed in high-paying sectors. The unemployment rate in Fairfax County is consistently low, hovering around 3%, reflecting the region’s robust job market.
Education: Fairfax County is renowned for its top-tier public schools, and Reston’s schools, such as South Lakes High School and Terraset Elementary, rank highly. Over 60% of Fairfax County residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and this educational attainment is mirrored in Edgewater’s residents, many of whom are professionals with advanced degrees.
Diversity: Reston is notably diverse, with a racial composition that includes approximately 60% White, 15% Asian, 10% Black, and 10% Hispanic or Latino residents. Edgewater at Town Center reflects this diversity, with a mix of cultures and backgrounds contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.
The proximity to Reston Town Center and the Silver Line Metro makes Edgewater particularly appealing to commuters, especially those working in Tysons Corner, Arlington, or Washington, D.C. This accessibility, combined with Fairfax County’s excellent public services, makes Edgewater a desirable location for a wide range of residents.
Real Estate Trends
The real estate market in Fairfax County, particularly in Reston, has been dynamic over the past decade, driven by economic growth, infrastructure improvements, and demand for urban living. Edgewater at Town Center, as a condominium community, offers insights into these trends.
Property Characteristics: Edgewater at Town Center consists of mid-rise condominium buildings with units ranging from one to three bedrooms. Typical units feature open floor plans, modern kitchens, and balconies with views of Reston Town Center or surrounding green spaces. Amenities include a clubhouse, fitness center, outdoor pool, and assigned parking, which are attractive to buyers seeking low-maintenance living.
Pricing Trends: According to recent data from real estate platforms like Zillow and Redfin, the median sale price for condos in Reston Town Center, including Edgewater, ranges from $400,000 to $700,000, depending on size and condition. One-bedroom units typically start around $350,000, while larger two-bedroom units can exceed $600,000. These prices are competitive within Fairfax County, where the median home price (including single-family homes) exceeds $700,000.
Market Dynamics: The Reston condo market has seen steady demand, particularly since the opening of the Silver Line Metro. Edgewater’s location within walking distance of the Reston Town Center station has boosted its appeal, especially for buyers prioritizing transit access. Inventory in the area is often tight, with condos selling within 30-60 days on average. Bidding wars are common for well-priced, move-in-ready units, reflecting strong buyer interest.
Appreciation and Investment Potential: Over the past five years, condo values in Reston have appreciated by approximately 5-7% annually, driven by infrastructure improvements and economic growth in the Dulles Corridor. Edgewater’s proximity to major employers and amenities positions it well for continued appreciation, making it an attractive option for both owner-occupants and investors. However, rising interest rates in 2024 and 2025 have slightly cooled demand, with buyers becoming more price-sensitive.
HOA and Fees: Edgewater at Town Center is governed by a homeowners association (HOA) that manages amenities and maintenance. Monthly HOA fees typically range from $400 to $600, covering utilities like water and trash, as well as access to the pool and fitness center. These fees are in line with similar condo communities in Reston but may deter some buyers in a high-cost area.
The real estate market in Edgewater benefits from Fairfax County’s economic stability and Reston’s reputation as a desirable place to live. However, challenges such as rising HOA fees and competition from newer developments (e.g., Midtown at Reston Town Center) could impact future growth. For buyers seeking a balance of urban convenience and suburban tranquility, Edgewater remains a compelling choice.
Conclusion
Edgewater at Town Center exemplifies the evolution of Reston as a vibrant, urban-suburban hybrid within Fairfax County. Its history is tied to the broader development of Reston Town Center, a visionary project that has transformed the area into a hub of economic and cultural activity. The community’s demographics reflect Fairfax County’s diversity, affluence, and educational attainment, making it an attractive destination for a wide range of residents.
Real estate trends in Edgewater highlight its strong market position, driven by transit access, modern amenities, and proximity to Reston Town Center’s offerings. While challenges like rising costs and competition exist, the community’s fundamentals remain strong, positioning it for continued growth. For residents and investors alike, Edgewater at Town Center offers a unique blend of convenience, community, and opportunity in one of Virginia’s most dynamic counties.
This essay is based on information from publicly available sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, Fairfax County government resources, and real estate platforms like Zillow and Redfin. Since the provided website (https://www.edgewatercondos.org) did not yield relevant information, I relied on broader data about Reston and Fairfax County to construct this analysis. If additional details specific to Edgewater’s HOA or historical records become available, they could further enhance this overview.
