Historical Context and Development
Oakwood Village’s history begins in 1963, when the property was originally constructed as a rental apartment complex. This period aligns with a significant wave of suburban expansion in Fairfax County, fueled by post-World War II population growth, the rise of the automobile, and the increasing presence of federal government jobs in nearby Washington, D.C. Fairfax County, strategically located just across the Potomac River from the nation’s capital, became a prime destination for residential development as families sought affordable, spacious housing beyond the urban core.
The original rental apartments at Oakwood Village catered to this growing demographic—middle-class families and professionals seeking proximity to employment hubs like the Pentagon, federal agencies, and emerging commercial centers along the I-495 Capital Beltway. In 1963, the design of the complex reflected the architectural trends of the time: functional, multi-level townhouse units with an emphasis on practicality over luxury. The inclusion of rear decks, patios, and fenced yards in the units suggests an early recognition of suburban preferences for private outdoor space—an amenity that distinguished townhouse living from denser urban apartments.
In 1976, a significant transformation occurred when the rental property was converted into a condominium association, rebranded as Oakwood Village Condominium Association. This shift mirrored a broader trend in the United States during the 1970s, as condominium ownership gained popularity as a hybrid between renting and traditional homeownership. The conversion allowed residents to purchase their units, fostering a sense of permanence and investment in the community. The establishment of a five-member Board of Directors, which meets monthly to oversee governance, underscores the transition to a self-managed, homeowner-driven entity—a hallmark of condominium associations.
The physical layout of Oakwood Village—107 units spread across 12 separate buildings—remains a testament to its origins. The two- and three-level units, offering three to four bedrooms, cater to a range of household sizes, from small families to multi-generational occupants. The design, with walk-out basements in some units, reflects an adaptation to Fairfax County’s gently rolling terrain, maximizing space and functionality. Located at 7901 Heritage Drive in Annandale, Virginia, the community benefits from its position just off the Capital Beltway, providing easy access to transportation hubs like the Vienna and Dunn Loring Orange Line Metro stations via Metro bus routes.
Demographic Profile
While specific demographic data for Oakwood Village is not publicly detailed on the Annandale Management website or elsewhere, inferences can be drawn from Fairfax County’s broader demographic trends and the nature of the community itself. Fairfax County is renowned for its diversity, affluence, and educated populace, qualities that likely influence the resident profile of Oakwood Village.
As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Fairfax County’s population stood at approximately 1.15 million, making it the most populous county in Virginia. The county is characterized by a median household income of over $130,000—well above the national average—and a highly educated workforce, with more than 60% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Ethnically, Fairfax County is a mosaic: about 37% of residents are White, 20% Asian, 17% Hispanic or Latino, and 10% Black or African-American, with the remainder identifying as multiracial or other groups. This diversity stems from the county’s proximity to Washington, D.C., its robust job market, and its reputation as a welcoming region for immigrants.
Oakwood Village, as a moderately priced condominium community in Annandale, likely attracts a subset of this demographic—middle-income families, young professionals, and retirees seeking affordable homeownership in a high-cost region. The townhouse design, with three to four bedrooms, suggests a family-oriented community, though the presence of smaller units may also appeal to singles or retirees downsizing from larger homes. The community’s location near major transit routes and employment centers implies a resident base that values convenience and connectivity, potentially including government workers, educators, or private-sector employees in nearby Tysons Corner or Arlington.
The condominium model itself may influence demographics. Unlike single-family homes, condos often attract buyers who prioritize low-maintenance living, as exterior upkeep and common areas are managed by the association. This could skew the population toward busy professionals or older adults less inclined to handle property maintenance. However, without proprietary resident data, these remain educated assumptions grounded in Fairfax County’s broader socioeconomic patterns.
Real Estate Trends and Market Dynamics
The real estate landscape of Oakwood Village is shaped by its status as a condominium association, its location in Fairfax County, and the broader Northern Virginia housing market. Fairfax County’s real estate market is one of the most competitive in the United States, driven by limited land availability, high demand, and proximity to Washington, D.C. As of February 28, 2025, the county’s median home price hovers around $650,000 to $700,000, though single-family homes often exceed $1 million in prime areas like McLean or Great Falls. Condominiums and townhouses, such as those in Oakwood Village, typically offer a more accessible entry point into this market.
Historical data from Fairfax County’s Economic, Demographic, and Statistical Research reports indicate steady appreciation in property values since the 1970s, with periodic booms tied to federal government expansion and tech industry growth in Northern Virginia. For Oakwood Village, the 1976 conversion to condominiums likely marked an initial surge in value as units transitioned from rental to ownership status. Over the decades, values would have risen in tandem with Fairfax County’s overall market, though condos generally appreciate at a slower rate than single-family homes due to shared ownership of common areas and association fees.
Recent trends in the Fairfax County condo market provide further context. According to real estate platforms like Realtor.com and NeighborhoodScout, the median listing price for condominiums in Annandale as of early 2025 ranges from $250,000 to $400,000, depending on size, condition, and amenities. Oakwood Village units, with their 1960s construction and townhouse layout, likely fall within or slightly above this range, given their multi-level design and private outdoor spaces. The inclusion of decks, patios, and fenced yards—uncommon in many condo complexes—may enhance their appeal and value relative to competitors.
The broader Northern Virginia market in 2025 reflects a cooling from the frenetic pace of the early 2020s, when low interest rates and remote work drove demand. Rising interest rates since 2022 have tempered buyer enthusiasm, though Fairfax County’s strong fundamentals—low unemployment, high incomes, and limited inventory—continue to support property values. For Oakwood Village, this suggests stable but modest appreciation, with demand bolstered by its affordability compared to newer luxury condos or single-family homes.
Association fees are a critical factor in condo pricing and buyer interest. While specific fees for Oakwood Village are not disclosed on the Annandale Management website, Fairfax County condo fees typically range from $300 to $600 per month, covering maintenance, insurance, and amenities. Oakwood Village’s fees likely support upkeep of the 12 buildings, landscaping, and shared infrastructure, influencing its affordability and long-term value proposition.
Community Governance and Lifestyle
The Oakwood Village Condominium Association operates under a five-member Board of Directors, which convenes monthly on the last Wednesday of each month at 7901 Heritage Drive. This governance structure, detailed on the community’s website, ensures resident input into decisions about maintenance, budgeting, and rule enforcement. The regularity of meetings reflects an active, engaged community, typical of Fairfax County’s many homeowner and condominium associations.
The lifestyle at Oakwood Village balances suburban tranquility with urban accessibility. Its proximity to the Capital Beltway and Metro stations facilitates commutes to Washington, D.C., Tysons Corner, or Alexandria, while Annandale’s local amenities—parks, schools, and shopping centers like the Annandale Shopping Center—cater to daily needs. The fenced yards and outdoor spaces offer residents a degree of privacy and personalization rare in condo living, fostering a sense of homeownership within a communal framework.
Fairfax County Context: A Broader Lens
Oakwood Village’s story is inseparable from Fairfax County’s evolution. The county’s growth from a rural outpost to a suburban powerhouse reflects national trends in suburbanization, economic diversification, and demographic change. Initiatives like Fairfax County’s Community Association Guide and legislative updates for condominium associations (published annually by the county) underscore the region’s commitment to supporting communities like Oakwood Village. Programs such as Charge Up Fairfax, which aids condo associations in installing electric vehicle charging stations, hint at future enhancements that could modernize Oakwood Village and sustain its relevance.
Conclusion
The Oakwood Village Condominium Association stands as a microcosm of Fairfax County’s suburban identity—rooted in mid-20th-century growth, shaped by diverse demographics, and navigating a competitive real estate landscape. From its origins as a 1963 rental complex to its 1976 rebirth as a condo community, Oakwood Village has adapted to changing times while retaining its core appeal: affordable, practical housing in a prime location. Its residents, likely a mix of families, professionals, and retirees, reflect Fairfax County’s socioeconomic diversity, while its real estate trends mirror the region’s stability and gradual appreciation.
Though specific data on Oakwood Village remains limited, its story aligns with broader patterns in Fairfax County—a region where history, demographics, and market forces converge to create vibrant, enduring communities. As Northern Virginia continues to evolve, Oakwood Village’s blend of accessibility, governance, and suburban charm positions it as a steadfast presence in an ever-changing landscape.
