Oakton, VA, Real Estate: Exploring This Hot Housing Market
Updated August 2021
Browsing homes for sale in Oakton, VA, will quickly show you just how beautiful, luxurious, and relaxing your life could be in this small community. Oakton real estate comes in many shapes and sizes, and that means there is a lot for you to explore while you get to know this area.
While many people choose to move to this community to step away from the busy-ness of day-to-day life, that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot to do here. Learn more about what it’s like to live in Oakton while also viewing the latest property listings.
Living In Oakton, VA
Oakton is an affluent community in Fairfax County, Virginia, that sits about 18 miles west of Washington, D.C. Oakton is located right off Route 66 in northern Virginia and is known for its long rows of tall oak trees and country scenery.
Voted one of the top 100 Best Places to Live by CNN, this gorgeous area is home to many D.C. commuters. Because of the desirable location close to the District, the Oakton real estate market tends to promote a luxury lifestyle.
There is a lot of new construction, and many Oakton homes for sale go over the million dollar price tag. The tranquility of the community is one of the best features of the area. Many homes in the Oakton real estate market are nestled in on large lots overlooking hiking trails or small forests.
Who Does Oakton Attract?
The Oakton real estate market attracts the interest of both renters and home buyers because of its modern and historic reputation, rural equestrian feel, modern amenities in close proximity to the city center, and excellent schools. The Oakton real estate market is primarily residential, with scenic vistas and affluent homes.
Real estate in Oakton appeals greatly to upper-middle-class households and working professionals, and it’s the perfect peaceful area in which to settle down without losing those city life perks.
Purchasing Property In Oakton
The Oakton real estate market offers a variety of townhouses, condominium communities, manor and estate homes with extra land, and Colonial-style single-family homes, all snuggled into the beautiful countryside.
Regardless of what type of home you want, it’s important to know that the market is typically very competitive in this area. Many properties receive multiple offers, so working with an agent to have the best purchasing strategy is key.
Country Homes
If owning your own country home has been a long-time dream, you can find beautiful manor homes in the Oakton real estate market.
For those who want to have a nice-sized piece of property surrounding their home, consider choosing an estate home in the Oakton real estate market, such as a 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom home on quiet Fox Mill Manor Drive, with a resort-like backyard area, a pool, and .86 acres of land that backs up to trees.
Part of the Manors of Fox Hill community, this home is conveniently located only minutes from everything you need for day-to-day living.
Townhomes And Condos
If you would rather be closer to the city center, a townhome or condominium community may be a better Oakton real estate choice for you. The Treebrooke subdivision offers lovely townhomes, some with four bedrooms and 3.5 baths, private yards or gardens, and within close proximity to restaurants and commuter options.
There are also a number of condo units available in the Oakton real estate market that offer the security of a close community. For example, a condo at the Four Winds at Oakton could be the right home for you.
These examples are only a small handful of the communities and home options available to you in the Oakton real estate market. To get a closer look at what is available, reach out to a qualified agent today so you can get to know the area with a knowledgeable expert at your side.
To discover what’s on the market in Oakton right now, scroll to the top of the page to browse the latest listings. These listings are updated daily, directly from the MLS.
Looking to buy or sell a home in Northern Virginia?
Contact me. Tel. (703) 462-0700
Oakton's Vibrant History
Like many of Virginia’s towns, Oakton shares a rich history that dates back to the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, with many buildings that were used by both Union and Confederate soldiers still standing today.
Oakton Schoolhouse
The Oakton Schoolhouse was the third school to be constructed in this area. The first schoolhouse, built in 1854 when Oakton was known as Flint Hill, burned to the ground just after the Civil War. The second one was built in 1873 on land owned by Gibson Whaley, and sat at the intersection of what is now Hunter’s Mill Road. What is now known as the Oakton Schoolhouse was constructed in 1987 and faced the Vienna and Fairfax roads.
The school closed for a period in 1900 when its first teacher, Mary Sager, resigned. That autumn, the school opened once more, then run by Mr. Moss Love and assisted by Nellie Shawen. Due to overcrowding, an annex was built by 1904, but by 1905 the school had reached full capacity once more.
Hunter Mill Corridor
The Hunter Mill Corridor holds many stories about its Civil War past, having served as the major roadway used by both Confederate and Union armies. The area saw many tragedies, such as farmlands being decimated, families fleeing the area for safety, troops occupying family homes, and the Gray Ghost. The road itself was the main access to the Fairfax County Courthouse, which was a significant supply outpost throughout the Civil War.
The area’s families were split between being Southern and Northern sympathizers, and due to occupation shifting between Confederate and Union command, many families fled the area based on which side had control at the time.
In 2009, a historical marker was placed to honor this important road. The corridor had provided rich farmlands and water in abundance, both of which were vital to support the encampment and movement of the cavalry and armies.
One intriguing local story is that of the Gray Ghost. This was not actually a ghost but Colonel John Singleton Mosby and his Partisan Rangers of 20 to 80 men, who took revenge on any Northern sympathizers and used guerrilla warfare tactics to do so.
Things To Do In Oakton, VA
While you may be focused on finding your dream home in Oakton, it’s also important to take a step back and get an idea of what your lifestyle might be like in the region. What would you do when you aren’t at home? Take a look at some of the top things to do in and around Oakton.
Nightlife And Restaurants
Oakton has a quiet nightlife scene, but those who purchase real estate here can easily travel to nearby areas if they want a night out.
Local eateries serve a range of delicacies from many countries, such as Yoko Japanese Restaurant located on the Chain Bridge Road and specializing in sushi. The Tigris Middle Eastern Grill offers a true taste of cuisines from the Middle East and offers a separate vegetarian menu.
For the nightlife scene, you can travel less than three miles from the Oakton real estate market to Vienna and the Jammin' Java venue, home to live music, savory snacks, and craft beers. On Lee Highway, you can find the Epicure Café, a Mediterranean bar and café featuring live music and open mic nights.
Those who purchase real estate in Oakton will also enjoy its prominent music scene, with many annual events taking place in and around nearby towns, such as the Fairfax Fair and Vienna's Performing Arts Festival held by the Wolfe Trap Foundation.
Oakton Shopping
Shopping is a popular activity for those who live in Oakton. The majority of shopping centers are located just outside the borders of the neighborhood, on Vienna and Fairfax Boulevard.
There is also a small cluster of service and convenience stores in the neighborhood along with Hunter Mill and Chain Bridge Roads, which intersect inside the Oakton Shopping Center. Here you can find Giant Foods and Tiger Mart. There are many local shops as well, including a children's boutique called Tabby Cat, and Abbey's Hallmark Shop.
Because Fairfax is only a few minutes away, many people who own Oakton real estate travel four miles to Fair Oaks Mall for shopping and dining. You'll find the best places to shop in Tysons Corner and the heart of Vienna, which has a variety and abundance of bargain and high-end shops to choose from, such as Wardrobe Rescue Upscale.
Although there aren't any specialty grocers in Oakton, residents can still find locally raised meats and fresh produce at the Oakton Smart Market, a farmers market that runs every Saturday and offers better deals than some of the local supermarkets. There is also the Vienna Farmers Market nearby.
Parks And Outdoor Activities
People who own Oakton homes love that the community is surrounded by parks. Three large parks of note are Difficult Run Stream Valley Park, Nottoway Park, and Oak Marr Park. These areas provide Oakton real estate owners with plenty of activities year round. You will also find plenty of small neighborhood parks where you can get to know your neighbors or bring your pet.
Among Oakton’s peaceful green areas to enjoy, the favorite is Nottoway Park just off Courthouse Road. This large park offers hiking trails, some of which are paved, and baseball and basketball courts. The part often hosts events, such as the occasional car show or sports league activity. Further into the wooded area you can find the historical Hunter House, which was built in 1890 and presently plays host to a series of free concerts called Nottoway Nights during the summer months.
If you’re looking for play areas and tot lots near your Oakton home, visit Borage Street Park, which has play areas with swings, tot lots, and semi-fenced-in areas. Old Town Square is another park that hosts small festivals and live music. It also has many lovely areas to sit and enjoy the scenery, as well as a splash pad.
There are also 71 off-leash parks made especially for pets, with fenced-in areas for your dog to run free and enjoy some outside time.
Other Great Local Attractions
Because of its central location, people who invest in the Oakton real estate market are not far from some great local attractions.
For instance, residents are close to the Reston Zoo, Children’s Museum of Northern Virginia, and some of the art galleries in Fairfax. There is plenty to do in the area, and many people find that purchasing real estate in Oakton provides a simple, peaceful place to unwind after a busy day.
Getting Around Oakton
The preferred mode of transportation for exploring the Oakton real estate market is traveling by car, because the neighborhoods stretch almost 10 miles long.
If you want to get your errands done on foot, you can do so around the intersection of Chain Bridge Road and Hunter Mill Road. It is a 35-minute commute to the city via I-66, or there is plenty of public transportation available such as the Metro Orange Line, which brings you directly into the city center via the Vienna Metro Station. Destinations within the town of Oakton can be reached by the 123 bus route from many areas in the Oakton real estate market.
Oakton is 20 miles from Ronald Reagan National Airport, 14 miles from Washington-Dulles International Airport, and 56 miles from Baltimore-Washington International Airport.
Schools In Oakton, Virginia
Those searching for Oakton real estate may be pleased to know the town is home to nine primary and secondary schools with high ratings, including the 10th-ranked Navy Elementary School. These schools are part of the Fairfax Co. School District.
You can find both public and private schools for all ages near the Oakton real estate market, including:
- Oakton Christian Preschool
- Hunter Mill Montessori School
- Navy Elementary School
- Waples Mill Elementary School
- Oakton Elementary School
- Flint Hill Elementary School
- Mosby Woods Elementary School
- Dominion Christian School
- Thoreau Middle School
- Franklin Middle School
- Oakton High School
- James Madison High School
- Flint High School
The exact schools that your children would attend would depend on where you purchase Oakton real estate. To get a better idea of what school they might attend, talk to a real estate agent like the great agents on our team or call the school district to request more information. You can call us at 703-462-0700!
Oakton, VA, Housing Market FAQs
Is Oakton, VA, a large city or a small town?
Oakton is a suburban town spanning 16 miles outside of Washington, DC. Like many suburban areas of the capital, Oakton presents a great blend of suburbia and urban living. There are walkable areas, densely populated town centers, and other aspects of city life blended with the space and beauty of more rural living. Many enjoy this unique combination.
How many people live in Oakton, VA?
In 2010, there were just over 30,000 people living in Oakton. In 2020, national census data reports that the population had grown to over 37,000. This consistent growth over a decade is reflected in the growth of culture, businesses, and housing options within the Oakton region as well.
When is the best time to buy a home in Northern Virginia?
Most years, the best time for buyers to shop the housing market is spring. This is when housing inventory is at its highest, and increased supply will give you a better chance to submit a winning offer. Still, great deals can be found year-round if you stay vigilant.
Finding Home Among Northern Virginia Homes For Sale
Oakton is just one part of Northern Virginia where you might find the perfect property for your future needs. Working with Oakton, VA, real estate agents will help you to discover whether this area is meant to be your next home or not. If not, keep searching the great condos, homes, and other properties in Northern Virginia. You never know what you’ll find! Call our team at 703-462-0700!
Looking to buy or sell a home in Northern Virginia?
Contact me. Tel. (703) 462-0700
