Dranesville is an unincorporated community of nearly 12,000 residents less than 30 miles from Washington, D.C. Its name stems back to the area’s founding when James Drane settled down and opened up Drane's Tavern, a popular rest stop for traveling merchants in the 1800s. "Dranesville sits next to the Town of Herndon and has a Herndon ZIP code, so some people say they're from Dranesville, but most people just say Herndon," says Scott Waters, a local Realtor with Real Broker, LLC, who was born and raised in the area.
Dranesville is one of the many sought-after communities in Fairfax County known for its well-manicured subdivisions, highly rated schools, nearby amenities and proximity to the nation's capital. "Fairfax is an extremely desirable, affluent D.C. suburb," Waters says. "My parents bought their house for $300,000 in the 1990s. Now it's worth over $1 million." Straddling the border between Loudoun and Fairfax County, Dranesville's tree-lined streets and wooded parks separate its residential subdivisions. With proximity to the city, the federal government is a major employer for residents here. Other industries include the aerospace, defense, technology and finance sectors. The county is also home to several Fortune 500 company headquarters.
Explore the scenic beauty and heritage of Dranesville, where tradition meets modern life.
Step back in time and explore the rich history of Dranesville Tavern Historic Site.
Enjoy a nice walk on the Wo&d Trail Dranesville.
The skatepark at Trailside Park offers fun and adventure for all in Dranesville.
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20th- and 21st-century homes
Suburban subdivisions give way to several condominiums, townhouses and hundreds of single-family homes. Some streets feature smaller, 20th-century designs, while others weave past spacious 21st-century Colonial Revivals and New Traditionals. Paved driveways wind past lush landscaping and two-to-three-car garages, while private backyards are often large enough for an in-ground pool. Median home prices hover around $855,000, with condos starting in the $300,000s, townhouses in the $500,000s and single-family homes ranging from the mid-$600,000s to well over $1 million. "Dranesville, and all of Fairfax County, is a hot market," Waters says.
Split-level homes in Dranesville offer modern design and functional multi-level living.
Experience cozy ranch style living in Dranesville with expansive yards and modern features.
Townhouses in Dranesville provide modern living with convenient access to local amenities.
Colonial style homes in Dranesville offer a perfect blend of tradition and modern comfort.
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A-rated Fairfax County Public Schools
According to Niche, Fairfax County Public Schools earns an overall A rating and is the sixth best school district in Virginia. "The schools have always been a large draw to the area," Waters says. "I know some families that have moved here specifically for our Special Education program." The district is one of the largest in the county, with over 182,000 students enrolled in more than 200 schools and centers.
Most high schools offer Advanced Placement and dual enrollment courses in partnership with Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA). For those interested in pursuing higher education, George Mason University, a public research university, is less than 20 miles away.
Dranesville Elementary School provides a nurturing environment for young learners in Dranesville.
Herndon High School offers top-notch education for students in the Dranesville area.
George Mason University provides excellent education and opportunities near Dranesville.
Northern Virginia Community College offers excellent education near Dranesville.
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Nature trails, green spaces and the Potomac River
Dranesville offers all four seasons. Warm springs turn into humid summers, while cool winters can bring occasional periods of snowfall. Dranesville and the surrounding area offer a variety of parks, golf courses, community pools and nature trails. Sugarland Run is one of several streams with wooded hiking trails that weave throughout the community, while the historic Drane's Tavern still stands at Dranesville Tavern Park along Leesburg Pike.
Nearby green spaces in Loudoun County include Gwen Thompson Briar Patch Park's expansive playground and Claude Moore Park's sports fields, nature trails, farm museum and recreation center. To the east, over 55 miles of paved trails weave through Reston, connecting residents to neighborhood parks like Lake Newport and Baron Cameron's dog park. About 6 miles from Dranesville, Lake Fairfax Park's 476 acres include open meadows, wooded hiking trails, public campgrounds and a 20-acre lake for anglers, kayakers and pedal-boaters. Additional amenities include Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole, sports fields and a skate park.
Residents are less than 10 miles from scenic parks such as Algonkian Regional, Riverbend, Scott's Run Nature Preserve and Great Falls, which feature waterfalls, swimming holes and hiking trails along the Potomac River.
Enjoy a nice ride with your buddies on the Wo&d Trail near Dranesville.
Go for a brisk walk along the wooded trails in the Sugarland Run Stream Valley Park located in Dranesville.
Dranesville's residents are less than 10 miles from scenic parks such as Algonkian Regional, Riverbend, Scott's Run Nature Preserve and Great Falls.
About 6 miles from Dranesville, Lake Fairfax Park's 476 acres include open meadows, wooded hiking trails, public campgrounds and a 20-acre lake for anglers, kayakers and pedal-boaters.
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Shopping and dining in Fairfax and Loudoun
Dranesville residents are close to numerous shopping plazas along Leesburg Pike. Five miles west, Dulles Town Center features an indoor mall and big-box stores.
Dozens of retailers and restaurants are also scattered throughout Reston and Herndon. The Town of Herndon, about 3 miles south, features a charming downtown area with local restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries and boutiques.
Reston Town Center, approximately 5 miles away, is a lively, walkable plaza with upscale dining, bars, high-end retailers and entertainment venues, including a seasonal outdoor ice rink. Tysons Corner Center and Tysons Galleria, both about 12 miles east, are premier regional shopping destinations with popular retailers, luxury brands and a diverse selection of restaurants. "Local malls like Fair Oaks have declined in popularity over the years, but Tysons is always packed," Waters says. The building of the Metro Silver Line station, luxury apartments, and the development of rooftop green spaces in a miniature city dotted with skyscrapers have all aided in the growth of the Tysons area.
The Town of Herndon, about 3 miles south of Dranesville, features a charming downtown area with local restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries and boutiques.
Join in the festivities of the Lunar New Year Celebration at the Dulles Town Center near Dranesville.
Catch up with friends over delicious food in Reston Town Center, a short drive from Dranesville.
Tysons Corner Center near Dranesville has tons of retail options for all types of shoppers.
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Herndon and Reston's small-town events
Dranesville's numerous subdivisions host small neighborhood events like summer block parties, but the neighboring communities of Herndon and Reston are known for their many events. Herndon hosts a seasonal farmers market, the Friday Night Live! summer concert series and festive holiday parades. A few miles away, Reston Town Center frequently holds community gatherings, including holiday tree lightings and art festivals. Less than 30 miles away, Washington, D.C., offers dozens of museums, concerts, plays and festivals.
Dranesville's numerous subdivisions host events like Friday Night Live!.
Dranesville resident enjoy Herndon Farmers Market every Thursday.
The Herndon Winter Market offers a cozy shopping experience just outside Dranesville.
Enjoy skating and holiday fun at Ice-Travaganza, located near Dranesville in Reston Town Center.
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Commuting to Washington, D.C.
The Fairfax Connector offers public transit around the county, but Dranesville is primarily a car-dependent community. The D.C. Metro opened the first Silver Line station in 2014, expanding the D.C. Metrorail to Reston. "It's a quick drive to the Metro, and some people commute into the city on it, but driving into D.C. can take just as long, if not a shorter amount of time," Waters says. Reston Hospital is about 5 miles south via Fairfax County Parkway, and Dulles International Airport is about 6 miles away. Dulles Toll Road offers a straight shot into the city. "Almost everyone up here has an E-ZPass," Waters says. Other major roadways include Interstates 66 and 95, as well as Leesburg Pike.
Low crime rates
The Fairfax County Police Department serves Dranesville residents. According to FBI crime data, Fairfax County saw an increase in property and violent crime rates between 2022 and 2023. However, even with more than 1 million residents, Fairfax County's crime rates historically trend lower than the national average.
Written By
Lillie Duston
Photography Contributed By
Tyson Le
Video By
Brandon Flash Craigie
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Dranesville, VA sell after 13 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Dranesville, VA over the last 12 months is $810,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Back on the market! Welcome to this beautifully refreshed split-level home offering 1,944 finished square feet of thoughtfully updated living space. This move-in-ready property features brand-new paint, flooring, windows, and interior doors throughout, creating a fresh, modern feel from the moment you enter. The main level showcases a stunning new kitchen with white shaker cabinetry, quartz
Fully renovated from top to bottom, this bright and stylish home offers modern updates and everyday comfort on a rare 0.45-acre lot. Features include a 2-car garage and a fully fenced, private backyard with a resort-style feel—perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Step inside to an open-concept layout where the home office/study and elegant half bath frame a light-filled living and dining space,
Welcome to 1540 Powells Tavern Place - a beautifully renovated split-level home nestled in the sought-after Hiddenbrook community of Herndon. Offering 2,200 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space across two finished levels, this home seamlessly blends modern updates with everyday comfort. Step inside to discover brand-new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the entire home. The
Back on the market! Welcome to this beautifully refreshed split-level home offering 1,944 finished square feet of thoughtfully updated living space. This move-in-ready property features brand-new paint, flooring, windows, and interior doors throughout, creating a fresh, modern feel from the moment you enter. The main level showcases a stunning new kitchen with white shaker cabinetry, quartz
Fully renovated from top to bottom, this bright and stylish home offers modern updates and everyday comfort on a rare 0.45-acre lot. Features include a 2-car garage and a fully fenced, private backyard with a resort-style feel—perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Step inside to an open-concept layout where the home office/study and elegant half bath frame a light-filled living and dining space,
*Back on the market at no fault of the seller. * Cozy Colonial in Crestbrook Community! Discover this charming 3-level colonial, perfectly situated in the Crestbrook community. Boasting 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, this meticulously maintained home offers both comfort and convenience.The main level welcomes you with gleaming hardwood floors in the formal living room, leading to a formal dining
Welcome home to this 5 bedroom, 5.5 bath colonial with 3-car attached garage in the tight- knit community of Cedar Chase! Perched on a gracious corner lot, this brick-front marvel is a testament to spacious living woven with intimate charm, creating an idyllic setting for daily life and entertaining. A grand two-story foyer, bathed in natural light, unfolds into a thoughtfully designed floor
This land is situated in a neighborhood of high-priced homes. It's reportedly non-buildable, but that could be subject to change. Let your imagination guide you. We welcome your offer.
Welcome to 1540 Powells Tavern Place - a beautifully renovated split-level home nestled in the sought-after Hiddenbrook community of Herndon. Offering 2,200 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space across two finished levels, this home seamlessly blends modern updates with everyday comfort. Step inside to discover brand-new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the entire home. The
Welcome home to this updated Colonial set on approximately half an acre, the largest lot in the development with a rare three-car garage and exceptional backyard privacy. A two-story foyer and hardwood flooring introduce the main level, featuring a private office with custom built-ins and a main-level bedroom suite with sitting area and full bath, ideal for guests or multigenerational living.
Welcome to his meticulously maintained 5-bedroom, Hamilton model in Jenkins Ridge. A stunning residence perfectly situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in one of Herndon’s most established and sought-after pockets. Enjoy monthly food truck gatherings, bike rides around the cul-de-sac, and evening strolls on the wider streets. This home isn’t just move-in ready—it’s "worry-free" ready, boasting a suite
Well-maintained and move-in ready 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath condo! This light-filled unit features an open floor plan with spacious living and dining areas, fresh paint, and large windows throughout. The kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, and counter space. The upper level includes two spacious en-suite bedrooms with walk-in closets, including a primary suite with a soaking tub
Fresh paint and NEW TILE FLOOR installed throughout apartment. Features:-2 large rooms with 2 built in closets in each room - Room 1 measures 14 ft by 12 ft - Room 2 measures 14 ft by 11.5 ft. -Private bathroom with ceiling exhaust fan/light/heater so you don't feel cold after a shower-Large open space concept with family room, dining room, and a roomy
Available April 1st. Single family home with two car garage located on corner lot with large enclosed sunroom and deck. This home has recently been refreshed and updated. Paint, refinished hardwood floors on main level, carpet on bedroom level, new luxury vinyl plank flooring in lower level family room with wood burning fireplace. Eat-in kitchen has recessed lighting, undercounter lighting,
Newly Renovated Apartment Homes! No application Fees! No Processing Fees! No Move-In Fees! No Amenities Fee! & Most of your Utilities are paid! Pet friendly, No breed Restriction and No weight Limitations! & No Pet Rent! (See details) Muirfield Woods Apartments is conveniently located everywhere you want to be, Dulles Airport, Tysons Corner I and II, Reston Town Center, Routes 7 & 28, historic
RARELY AVAILABLE SINGLE FAMILY HOME AT LESS THAN A TOWNHOUSE RENT. TWO BEDROOMS, ONE BATH AND A COMPLETELY RENOVATED KITCHEN, MAIN LEVEL HAS LIVING/DINNING ROOM & KITCHEN.UPPER LEVEL HAS TWO BEDROOMS, & A LAUNDRY ROOM. NO HOMEOWNRS ASSOCIATION. HOUSE IS LOCATED IN THE HIGHLY DESIRED LANGLEY HIGH SCHOOL, COOPER MIDDLE SCHOOL & FORESTVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT.SLIDING GLASS DOOR IN THE
Welcome to 1379 Dominion Ridge Ln—a stunning 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath all-brick colonial nestled on a corner lot in a peaceful cul-de-sac within the desirable Dominion Ridge community. Boasting over 4,000 sq ft of well-designed living space, this beautifully maintained home offers both comfort and functionality. The main level features gleaming hardwood floors, a spacious kitchen that opens into a
Well-maintained and move-in ready 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath condo! This light-filled unit features an open floor plan with spacious living and dining areas, fresh paint, and large windows throughout. The kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, and counter space. The upper level includes two spacious en-suite bedrooms with walk-in closets, including a primary suite with a soaking tub
Penthouse-style condominium offering a spacious two-level layout with 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The main level features an open-concept living and dining area with laminate flooring, a three-sided gas fireplace, and access to a private balcony. Large windows provide abundant natural light throughout the space. The upper level includes two bedroom suites, each with a walk-in closet and a full
Welcome to this newly renovated home in Spring Grove Farm of Sterling! This house features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2,180 finished square feet and an open floor plan with a great flow for entertaining your guests. You'll enjoy a formal living room, dining room, family room with a cozy fireplace, breakfast room and kitchen. The upper level boasts a spacious owner's suite with a walk-in closet and
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