The Pentagon
DoD headquarters in Arlington, VA. Transit-rich, high-cost region across NOVA, DC, and MD.
Pentagon assignments span all branches and most pay grades. The DMV market is expensive but transit-rich - your commute strategy drives the housing decision.
Use this guide as a planning starting point. Housing costs, school boundaries, commute times, BAH, and local services change frequently, so verify details with official sources and local professionals before making decisions.
Housing
- Ask the installation housing office which privatized housing provider currently manages your neighborhood options.
- Confirm current waitlists, pet rules, utilities, and move-in timelines directly with the housing office or provider.
- Compare current BAH, rent, utilities, commute costs, and deposit requirements before choosing an area.
- Confirm VA eligibility, appraisal concerns, property condition, and closing costs with your lender before making an offer.
Schools
- Public districts include Arlington, Fairfax County, Alexandria City, and Falls Church City, with private and charter options as well.
- Review current school boundaries, ratings, commute times, and enrollment requirements before choosing a neighborhood.
- School boundaries and ratings can change, so verify current information directly with the district.
PCS tips
- Decide commute method first (Metro, slug, drive) since it heavily influences where you can live.
- Ask your lender about loan programs available in this market, and confirm closing-cost expectations.
- If a short tour is possible, weigh transaction costs against the expected length of your assignment.
Common ZIPs
Top neighborhoods near Pentagon
Tap to search listings in each area.
Pentagon City / Crystal City
Walk or short Metro ride to the Pentagon, condo-heavy. Commute times vary by gate, traffic, duty hours, and neighborhood. Test the route during your expected reporting window before committing to housing.
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Old Town Alexandria
Walkable, historic area with premium pricing. Commute times vary by gate, traffic, duty hours, and neighborhood. Test the route during your expected reporting window before committing to housing.
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Springfield / Burke
More space further from the Pentagon. Commute times vary by gate, traffic, duty hours, and neighborhood. Test the route during your expected reporting window before committing to housing.
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Rosslyn / Ballston
Urban condo corridor along Metro lines. Commute times vary by gate, traffic, duty hours, and neighborhood. Test the route during your expected reporting window before committing to housing.
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