Historical Context
Fairfax County’s Historical Evolution
To understand Westmoreland Square’s place in Fairfax County, it’s essential to consider the county’s historical trajectory. Fairfax County, established in 1742, has deep roots in Virginia’s colonial past. Named after Thomas Fairfax, the 6th Lord Fairfax of Cameron, the county was initially a vast agrarian region along the Potomac River. Early settlements were shaped by prominent figures like George Washington, whose Mount Vernon estate is located in the county, and George Mason, whose Gunston Hall is nearby. The area was home to the Algonquian-speaking Doeg tribe before European colonization, with documented villages along the Potomac by 1608.
The county’s transformation from rural to suburban began in earnest after World War II. The federal government’s expansion, coupled with the GI Bill, spurred housing development to accommodate returning veterans and a growing middle class. Fairfax County evolved from farmland into a suburban hub, driven by its proximity to Washington, D.C. The opening of Tysons Corner Center in the 1960s marked a turning point, catalyzing commercial growth and establishing Tysons as a major economic center. This suburbanization set the stage for communities like Westmoreland Square, which emerged as part of the county’s residential expansion.
Westmoreland Square’s Development
While specific records about Westmoreland Square’s founding are not widely publicized, the community likely developed during Fairfax County’s suburban boom in the late 20th century. The neighborhood’s design—182 townhouses surrounded by park-like areas, walking paths, and a flood plain—reflects the planned communities that became popular in Northern Virginia during the 1970s and 1980s. These developments catered to families seeking affordable, community-oriented housing near the nation’s capital. The Westmoreland Square Homes Association, which manages the community, emphasizes events and engagement, suggesting a deliberate effort to foster neighborly connections, a hallmark of suburban planning from that era.
The neighborhood’s location on the border of Falls Church and McLean places it in a historically significant corridor. Falls Church, originally settled in the late 17th century, became an independent city in 1948, while McLean, known for its affluent estates and proximity to D.C., grew as a hub for government and tech professionals. Westmoreland Square benefits from its position between these two areas, offering residents access to both small-town charm and upscale amenities.
Demographics of Westmoreland Square and Fairfax County
Fairfax County Demographics
Fairfax County is one of Virginia’s most populous and diverse jurisdictions, with a population of approximately 1.14 million as of 2023. The county’s demographic profile reflects its status as a magnet for professionals, immigrants, and families. Key statistics include:
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Median Age: 38.9 years, indicating a balanced mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
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Household Income: The median household income is $150,113, among the highest in the U.S., driven by the county’s tech, government, and consulting sectors.
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Education: About 50% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, reflecting a highly educated workforce.
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Racial Composition: The county is predominantly White (though less so than in past decades), with significant Asian (around 20%) and Black or African American (around 10%) populations. Hispanic or Latino residents make up a growing share.
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Foreign-Born Population: Approximately 30.6% of residents were born outside the U.S., with many from Asia, Latin America, and Africa, contributing to cultural diversity.
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Political Leanings: Fairfax County leans heavily Democratic, with nearly 70% of votes going to the Democratic candidate in the 2020 presidential election.
This diversity and affluence shape the county’s neighborhoods, including Westmoreland Square.
Westmoreland Square’s Demographic Profile
Specific demographic data for Westmoreland Square is not publicly available due to its small size (182 households). However, we can infer its characteristics based on its location, housing type, and Fairfax County’s broader trends. Westmoreland Square is described as a “family-friendly” community, suggesting a significant presence of families with children. The townhouse format typically appeals to middle- and upper-middle-class households, including young professionals, dual-income couples, and small families seeking more space than apartments but less maintenance than single-family homes.
Given its proximity to McLean, one of Fairfax County’s wealthiest areas, and Falls Church, known for its community-oriented vibe, Westmoreland Square likely attracts residents with above-average incomes and education levels. The neighborhood’s access to top-rated Fairfax County public schools—such as Haycock Elementary, Longfellow Middle, and McLean High—further suggests a demographic that prioritizes education, likely including professionals in tech, government, or consulting, common in Northern Virginia.
The county’s diversity likely extends to Westmoreland Square, though the neighborhood may be less diverse than urban pockets like Annandale or Herndon due to its smaller size and suburban character. Residents are probably a mix of White, Asian, and other ethnic groups, with a notable proportion of foreign-born individuals, aligning with the county’s 30.6% foreign-born statistic. The community’s active homeowners association and events like holiday gatherings indicate a socially engaged population, typical of suburban enclaves where neighbors value connection.
Real Estate Trends in Westmoreland Square and Fairfax County
Fairfax County’s Housing Market
Fairfax County’s real estate market is one of the most competitive and expensive in the U.S., driven by its proximity to Washington, D.C., strong job market, and quality of life. Key trends as of March 2025 include:
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Median Home Value: Approximately $696,057 to $729,053, depending on the source, with a year-over-year increase of 0.4% to 5.8%. Townhouses and condos, like those in Westmoreland Square, typically fall below this median but have seen similar appreciation.
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Inventory: The county had 2,536 homes for sale in March 2025, an 86.8% increase from February, suggesting a seasonal uptick but still a seller’s market overall. Homes sell quickly, with an average listing age of 16 days.
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Market Dynamics: Fairfax County remains a seller’s market, with demand exceeding supply. About 43.8% of homes sell at or near asking price, while 38% sell above, reflecting competitive bidding.
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Housing Types: Single-family homes dominate, but townhouses and condos are popular for their affordability and low maintenance, appealing to first-time buyers and downsizers.
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Price Trends: Median home values have risen steadily, from $501,200 in 2015 to $666,900 in 2022, outpacing state and national averages. Townhouse prices have followed suit, though they remain more accessible than detached homes.
Environmental factors also influence the market. Fairfax County faces moderate risks of wildfire (15% of properties) and flooding (12% of properties) over the next 30 years, but these risks are lower than national averages and unlikely to deter buyers. Heat risk is more significant, with a projected 114% increase in days over 103°F in 30 years, potentially affecting housing preferences toward energy-efficient homes.
Westmoreland Square’s Real Estate Profile
Westmoreland Square’s 182 townhouses represent a niche segment of Fairfax County’s housing market. While exact sales data for the neighborhood is unavailable, we can extrapolate from regional trends and the community’s characteristics:
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Property Type and Value: Townhouses in Westmoreland Square are likely priced below the county’s median for single-family homes but above the low end of the condo market. Based on Fairfax County’s townhouse median sale price (around $500,000–$600,000 in recent years), Westmoreland Square homes probably range from $550,000 to $750,000, depending on size, condition, and upgrades. The neighborhood’s mature trees, walking paths, and flood plain enhance its appeal, though the flood plain may slightly temper prices for some units.
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Market Activity: As part of a seller’s market, Westmoreland Square townhouses likely sell quickly, especially given the neighborhood’s desirable location and school district. Homes here may attract multiple offers, with buyers occasionally paying above asking price, though not as aggressively as in Tysons or Vienna.
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Buyer Demographics: Typical buyers include families drawn to the school district, professionals seeking proximity to D.C. (14 miles away), and retirees downsizing from larger McLean homes. The Metro’s Orange Line (Vienna station, one mile away) and major highways (I-66, I-495) make commuting feasible, broadening the buyer pool.
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Community Amenities: The homeowners association’s maintenance of common areas and organization of events adds value, as buyers often prioritize low-maintenance living and community engagement. Access to nearby shopping (Tysons Corner Center), restaurants, and entertainment further boosts desirability.
Long-term trends suggest Westmoreland Square’s property values will continue to appreciate, though at a slower rate than during the post-2015 boom. Rising interest rates and affordability challenges may cool demand slightly, but the neighborhood’s location and amenities ensure sustained interest. Energy efficiency, a growing concern in Fairfax County due to heat risks, may influence future renovations or buyer preferences in Westmoreland Square.
Community and Lifestyle
Westmoreland Square’s appeal extends beyond its housing and location. The neighborhood’s website, www.westmorelandsquare.com, emphasizes its welcoming atmosphere, with “mature trees, walking paths, a flood plain, and friendly neighbors.” The homeowners association plays a central role, hosting events like holiday parties, clean-up days, and social gatherings to foster community spirit. These efforts resonate with residents who value connection in a region where fast-paced careers can dominate daily life.
The neighborhood’s proximity to Fairfax County’s top schools is a major draw for families. Haycock Elementary, Longfellow Middle, and McLean High consistently rank among Virginia’s best, with strong academic programs and extracurriculars. This educational advantage, combined with safe streets and park-like areas, makes Westmoreland Square ideal for raising children.
Residents also benefit from Northern Virginia’s amenities. Tysons Corner Center, a premier shopping destination, is minutes away, offering retail, dining, and entertainment. Downtown Falls Church provides a quaint alternative with local eateries and festivals, while McLean’s upscale vibe includes high-end restaurants and cultural events. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby trails, such as those in Great Falls Park, balancing suburban comfort with access to nature.
Transportation is another strength. The Vienna Metro station connects residents to D.C., while I-66 and I-495 facilitate car travel. Reagan National and Dulles International Airports are within easy reach, appealing to frequent travelers. This connectivity enhances Westmoreland Square’s value for professionals working in D.C., Tysons, or Reston’s tech corridor.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite its strengths, Westmoreland Square faces challenges common to Fairfax County. Housing affordability is a concern, as rising prices may exclude younger buyers or those without high incomes. The flood plain, while a scenic feature, could pose maintenance costs or insurance considerations for some homes. Fairfax County’s high property taxes—averaging $8,900 annually per household in 2021—add to the cost of living, though residents often view this as a trade-off for quality schools and services.
Traffic congestion, a perennial issue in Northern Virginia, affects commutes, particularly on I-66 and Route 7. While Westmoreland Square’s location mitigates some urban sprawl, residents may still face delays during peak hours. Finally, the county’s projected increase in extreme heat days could prompt future infrastructure upgrades, such as enhanced cooling systems or green spaces, potentially raising HOA fees.
Conclusion
Westmoreland Square exemplifies the best of suburban living in Fairfax County, Virginia. Its 182 townhouses, surrounded by natural beauty and supported by an active homeowners association, create a tight-knit community ideal for families, professionals, and retirees. Historically, the neighborhood emerged from Fairfax County’s post-World War II suburbanization, benefiting from the region’s economic and cultural growth. Demographically, it likely mirrors the county’s affluent, educated, and diverse profile, with a focus on family-oriented residents. Real estate trends point to steady appreciation and strong demand, driven by the area’s schools, amenities, and proximity to D.C.
As Fairfax County navigates challenges like affordability and climate risks, Westmoreland Square remains a resilient and desirable enclave. Its blend of community spirit, accessibility, and suburban charm ensures it will continue to attract residents seeking a high quality of life in Northern Virginia. For those considering a home in Westmoreland Square, the neighborhood offers not just a place to live, but a place to belong.
