Historical Context: The Evolution of McLean and McLean House North
McLean, Virginia, owes its name to John Roll McLean, a prominent figure who, alongside Senator Stephen Benton Elkins, purchased land in the area in 1902. McLean was initially established as a rural stop along the Great Falls and Old Dominion Railroad, completed in 1906, which connected the region to Washington, D.C. This rail line catalyzed growth, transforming McLean from a sleepy farming community into a burgeoning suburb. By 1910, McLean was formally recognized as a community, though it remained unincorporated, falling under the jurisdiction of Fairfax County.
The 20th century saw McLean evolve into a haven for the elite, bolstered by its strategic location inside the Capital Beltway (Interstate 495) and its proximity to major employment hubs like Tysons Corner and downtown D.C., just 8 miles southeast. The presence of high-profile institutions, such as the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) headquarters in the Langley area of McLean since the 1960s, further elevated its status. This historical backdrop sets the stage for residential developments like McLean House North, which emerged as part of the area’s transition into a modern, upscale suburban enclave.
While specific historical records about McLean House North are not widely detailed in public sources beyond its association with the McLean House Condominium community, its establishment likely aligns with the post-World War II housing boom and subsequent condominium development trends in Fairfax County. The 1970s and 1980s marked a period when McLean saw significant residential growth, characterized by large single-family homes and, increasingly, luxury condominiums catering to professionals seeking proximity to D.C. without the urban density. McLean House North, as a condominium, reflects this shift toward diverse housing options in a community historically dominated by expansive estates.
The Fairfax County History Portal, maintained by the Virginia Room at Fairfax County Public Library, hints at the preservation of McLean’s past through collections like the McLean Virginia Collection (03-13). While these archives focus broadly on the community, they underscore the area’s evolution from rural roots to a modern residential hub—context in which McLean House North was likely developed to meet the needs of an affluent, mobile populace.
Demographics: A Snapshot of McLean’s Population
Understanding McLean House North requires a look at the demographics of McLean, as the condominium is embedded within this broader community. As of the 2020 census, McLean had a population of approximately 50,773 residents across 17,005 housing units. The area is markedly affluent, with a median household income exceeding $178,244—far surpassing Fairfax County’s median of $127,709 and the national median of $66,222. This wealth is a defining trait, positioning McLean among the most prosperous communities in the United States.
McLean’s demographic profile is notably family-oriented, with 37% of households including children under 18, compared to 34% in Fairfax County overall. The racial composition, based on data from local schools like Langley High School (serving parts of McLean), shows a population that is approximately 53% White, 30% Asian, 7% Hispanic, 1% Black, and 8% other. McLean High School, closer to downtown McLean, reflects a slightly more diverse mix: 49% White, 26% Asian, 14% Hispanic, 4% Black, and 6% other. These figures suggest a community that, while predominantly White and Asian, is gradually diversifying.
Education levels in McLean are exceptionally high, with over 85% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, reflecting the area’s appeal to professionals in government, technology, and intelligence sectors—many tied to nearby institutions like the CIA and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. This educated, high-income demographic likely influences the resident profile of McLean House North, which, as a condominium, attracts a mix of young professionals, retirees, and smaller families seeking low-maintenance luxury living.
The condominium’s location near downtown McLean, a hub with amenities like the Dolley Madison Library and access to the Silver Line’s McLean Metrorail station, suggests it caters to residents valuing convenience and connectivity. Unlike the sprawling estates of neighborhoods like Langley Farms, McLean House North offers a more compact, urban-inspired lifestyle within a suburban setting—a demographic shift from McLean’s traditional large-home dominance.
Real Estate Trends: McLean House North in a Dynamic Market
The real estate landscape of McLean, and by extension McLean House North, is a study in exclusivity and demand. As of January 2025, McLean’s housing market is characterized by a median home value of $1,341,097, up 7.1% from the previous year, according to Rocket Homes. Single-family homes dominate, with an average sale price of $2,103,986 (or $596.52 per square foot) and a median days-on-market of 29 days, per The Rappahannock River Company’s 2023 report. Condominiums like McLean House North, however, cater to a niche within this market, offering a more affordable entry point into McLean’s luxury sphere.
Specific data on McLean House North listings (via www.mcleanhousecondominium.org or local MLS updates) is not comprehensively detailed in broad public sources, but its context within McLean’s condo market can be inferred. Zillow reports McLean’s typical home value at $1,246,367 as of early 2025, with condos often falling below this median due to their smaller size and shared amenities. Redfin notes that McLean’s market is “somewhat competitive,” with a Compete Score of 41 out of 100, and homes selling for about 2% below list price after 50 days on average. Hot properties, however, can sell at list price in as little as 6 days, indicating variability based on desirability.
For McLean House North, real estate trends likely mirror broader condo patterns in Fairfax County. The Rappahannock report highlights that new construction townhomes in McLean sold for an average of $1 million in 2023, suggesting that established condos like McLean House North might range from $500,000 to $1 million, depending on size, condition, and amenities (e.g., parking, views, or proximity to transit). The scarcity of raw land—only 19 land sales in 2023 at $2.5 million per acre—underscores the premium on existing properties, including condos.
Historically, McLean’s appreciation rate has been robust, with NeighborhoodScout reporting an 8.24% annual increase over the latest twelve months (as of 2021 data, updated to reflect ongoing trends). This growth, slightly above the national average, suggests that McLean House North has likely seen steady value increases, appealing to investors and residents alike. The condo market benefits from McLean’s desirability—proximity to Tysons Corner’s shopping, excellent Fairfax County schools (e.g., McLean and Langley High Schools), and access to Metro—while offering a lower maintenance alternative to single-family homes.
Yet, challenges persist. Rising interest rates and economic uncertainties as of 2025 may temper buyer enthusiasm, though McLean’s wealth cushions it from broader market downturns. Environmental risks, such as a projected 128% increase in days over 104°F over the next 30 years (per Redfin), could also influence long-term value, though McLean’s moderate flood and wildfire risks mitigate some concerns compared to other regions.
Synthesis: McLean House North as a Reflection of McLean
McLean House North encapsulates the essence of McLean—a blend of historical significance, demographic affluence, and real estate prestige. Its roots trace back to a community shaped by railroad expansion and solidified by its role as a power hub near D.C. Its residents reflect McLean’s educated, high-income populace, likely a mix of professionals and retirees drawn to condo living. Real estate trends position it as a valuable yet accessible option in a market where single-family homes command multimillion-dollar prices.
While specific details about McLean House North’s founding, unit count, or resident testimonials remain elusive without direct access to www.mcleanhousecondominium.org or proprietary MLS data, its place within McLean’s narrative is clear. It serves as a gateway to a lifestyle defined by luxury, convenience, and community—a testament to Fairfax County’s enduring appeal. As McLean continues to evolve, McLean House North stands as both a historical artifact and a modern asset, bridging the past and future of this upscale Virginia enclave.
