Burke, VA Named #1 Place to Live in Virginia

Northern Virginia residents, rejoice! Burke, VA—often referred to as Virginia Burke—has been officially named the best place to live in Virginia by the respected U.S. News & World Report. This recognition underscores what locals have known for years—Burke offers an unbeatable combination of community charm, natural beauty, and convenient amenities. Burke Lake is a beautiful area known for its scenic green spaces, waterfront views, and peaceful environment. Burke is located within the Washington Metropolitan Area, providing easy access to major cities and regional attractions. To help you visualize where Burke sits in Virginia, refer to a map of the area.

Why Burke Stands Out

Burke is a picturesque community nestled in Fairfax County, just southwest of Fairfax City. Burke consists of two key census-designated places, including Burke CDP and Burke Centre, each with its own unique community features. Burke CDP is an official census-designated place within Fairfax County, recognized for its defined boundaries and residential appeal. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Burke seamlessly blends suburban comfort with proximity to major metropolitan benefits. Notable neighborhoods include Burke Centre, a planned community and prominent center within the area. Its strategic location provides easy commuting access to Washington, D.C., and it is conveniently close to Fairfax Station, enhancing accessibility for residents and visitors alike, making it ideal for professionals who prefer a quieter residential setting.

Exceptional Quality of Life

Residents of Burke consistently cite the area’s high quality of life, which includes top-rated public schools, low crime rates, and ample recreational opportunities. The Burke population is approximately 41,000, with diverse demographics including a mix of age groups, cultural backgrounds, and income levels that contribute to the community's vibrant character. Burke Lake Park, one of the area’s gems, offers residents hiking trails, picnic areas, a picturesque lake, fishing spots, and even a golf course, contributing significantly to the active lifestyle available here. Within Burke, you'll find a variety of communities, including planned communities like Burke Centre and several distinct neighborhoods, each offering unique amenities and lifestyle options.

Demographics and Local Economy

Burke, Virginia, stands out not only for its scenic beauty and community spirit but also for its impressive demographics and robust local economy. With a median age of 40.5 years, Burke’s population reflects a vibrant mix of families, professionals, and long-time residents who value both stability and opportunity. The median household income in Burke is an impressive $180,103—well above the national average—demonstrating the area’s affluence and economic strength. Many residents are professionals who commute to Washington, D.C. and other parts of Northern Virginia, taking advantage of the convenient Virginia Railway Express (VRE) stations that connect Burke directly to the city. This accessibility makes Burke an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful suburban lifestyle without sacrificing career opportunities in the nation’s capital.

Real Estate in Burke

The real estate market in Burke features a diverse selection of homes, ranging from charming townhouses to expansive single-family properties. The latest market statistics from May 2025 highlight the area's strong residential appeal. In May alone, 67 homes were sold in Burke, showcasing a busy market. The median sold price was $820,000, and on average, homes sold for an impressive 102.3% of their original list price. This indicates that many homes are selling for above asking price.

These numbers reflect a competitive and desirable market where properties are in high demand. The average time a home spent on the market was just 6 days, which is a clear indicator of how quickly buyers are moving on available properties. The area’s residential appeal lies in its blend of established neighborhoods and newer developments, catering to various lifestyle needs and budgets.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, moving up, or downsizing, Burke provides options that meet diverse needs, all within a community known for stability and growth. Residents enjoy a variety of shopping options, including local stores and shopping centers, as well as convenient office spaces integrated within planned communities like Burke Centre. Many amenities and public transportation options, such as VRE stations, are within walking distance, making daily life and commuting easier. Home values here have historically appreciated, making it a sound investment for potential buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Burke

Home Prices & Market

• What are current home prices in Burke, Virginia in 2025? Home values in Burke have remained strong in 2025 despite slight market adjustments. The average home value sits at $743,788, showing a 3.3% increase year-over-year. However, May 2025 sales data shows the average sold price was $788,944, down 4.76% from May 2024. The median sold price was $820,000, a 3.08% decline year-over-year. By home type:

  • Single-family homes: Median sales around $848,000, with detached homes selling for an average of $933,667
  • Townhomes: Median prices near $590,000, with attached homes averaging $574,540, reflecting a 1.28% annual increase
  • Condos: Average price around $392,000 These figures reflect a highly active market with continued buyer interest across all price points.

• How competitive is the Burke housing market? The Burke housing market remains highly competitive in 2025. Homes are selling quickly, with an average days on market of just 6 days as of May. Properties continue to sell for over asking price, with a sale-to-original-list price ratio of 102.3%, indicating many homes are drawing multiple offers. Inventory is increasing. There were 44 active listings in May 2025, a 41.9% increase from the prior year, and 57 new pendings, up 21.3% year-over-year. This suggests growing movement while maintaining competitive pressure for well-priced listings.

• What types of homes are available in Burke? Burke offers a wide range of housing options. Median prices by home size in 2025 are:

  • 2-bedroom homes: $499,900
  • 3-bedroom homes: $625,000
  • 4-bedroom homes: $832,000
  • 5+ bedroom homes: $938,000 Housing in Burke includes the traditional Burke CDP as well as Burke Centre, a master-planned community divided into five neighborhoods: The Woods, The Oaks, The Commons, The Ponds, and The Landings. Each has its own pool, clubhouse, and trail access, appealing to a wide range of buyers.

• What should I know about property taxes in Burke? Burke’s median effective property tax rate is approximately 1.14%, higher than the national median of 1.02%. For a typical home valued at $574,900, this translates to an average annual tax bill of about $6,556. Detached homes, depending on size and valuation, commonly see annual property tax costs ranging between $6,000 and $10,000.

Schools & Education

• How good are the schools in Burke, Virginia? Burke is served by Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), one of the top-ranked school districts in the country. FCPS educates over 183,000 students and is known for its rigorous academics and broad extracurricular programs. Key school rankings include:

  • Cherry Run Elementary: Ranked 83rd out of 1,114 in Virginia, 5-star rating
  • Terra Centre Elementary: Ranked 201st, 4-star rating
  • Irving Middle School: Ranked #26 in Virginia
  • Lake Braddock Secondary School: Ranked #15 among Virginia public high schools, with an A+ rating

• What are the student-to-teacher ratios in Burke schools? Class sizes in Burke are competitive compared to national averages:

  • Elementary schools: 14–18 students per teacher
  • Middle schools: 13–15 students per teacher
  • High schools: 15–17 students per teacher These ratios contribute to strong academic performance and individualized instruction.

• Are there specialized programs available? Yes. Burke schools offer advanced academic programs including magnet tracks, AP coursework, STEAM integration, and career and technical education. Lake Braddock Secondary is a standout, offering both a strong neighborhood school program and specialized magnet tracks. It’s currently ranked the #2 Magnet High School in Virginia.

Cost of Living

• How expensive is it to live in Burke, Virginia? Burke’s cost of living index is 160, which is 60% above the national average. Housing costs are the primary driver:

  • Housing: 185.2% above national average
  • Groceries: 13.9% higher
  • Healthcare: 12% higher
  • Transportation: 6% higher
  • Utilities: Near national average While expensive, the area offers significant amenities and convenience, justifying the higher cost for many residents.

• What is the median household income in Burke? The median household income in Burke is $179,063, nearly double the Virginia average. Individual income averages around $77,670, which is 57% higher than the state median. Despite this wealth, about 1.9% of families in the area still live below the poverty line.

• What are typical utility costs in Burke? Electric bills in Burke average $189 to $190 per month, which totals about $2,268 to $2,280 annually. This is roughly 6% below the national average, thanks in part to newer, energy-efficient homes and infrastructure.

• What salary do I need to live comfortably in Burke? Using the standard financial benchmark that housing should not exceed 28% of gross monthly income, most homebuyers in Burke need to earn at least $150,000 to $180,000 annually to afford a median-priced home. This aligns closely with local income data, indicating that most residents are financially equipped to manage the cost of living.

Commuting to Washington, D.C.

• How long is the commute from Burke to Washington, D.C.? Commute times vary based on mode of transportation:

  • By Car: About 31 minutes without traffic. During peak hours, it can take 35 minutes to over 90 minutes.
  • By Train (VRE):
    • Rolling Road Station to Union Station: 46 minutes
    • Burke Centre Station to Union Station: 51 minutes
  • By Bus/Metro: About 56 minutes, depending on transfer timing.

• What public transportation options are available? Burke is served by two Virginia Railway Express (VRE) stations—Rolling Road and Burke Centre. VRE service runs five times daily during commuter hours, with fares ranging from $5 to $8. Additionally, bus routes such as 18J, 18P, 306, and 310 connect Burke to the Pentagon and Metro stations. Amtrak also offers limited service from Burke Centre Station with one daily train to Union Station.

• Is driving or public transit better for commuting? VRE offers a reliable, stress-free option for those with traditional 9-to-5 schedules, while driving gives more flexibility for off-peak hours or variable destinations. However, heavy traffic along I-495 and I-66 can make rush hour commutes unpredictable. For residents working downtown, VRE remains a preferred method due to predictable travel times and minimal delays.

Neighborhoods & Lifestyle

• What neighborhoods are available in Burke? Burke is split into two main residential zones:

  • Burke CDP: The original area, with a wide range of older homes, cul-de-sacs, and larger lots
  • Burke Centre: A master-planned community made up of five distinctive neighborhoods:
    • The Woods
    • The Oaks
    • The Commons
    • The Ponds
    • The Landings Each Burke Centre neighborhood has its own community center and pool, with shared access to miles of trails, playgrounds, and open green space.

• What amenities and recreational facilities are available? Burke features excellent recreation and green space options:

  • Burke Lake Park: Offers hiking, fishing, golf, camping, a carousel, and seasonal events like stargazing nights and nature walks
  • Community Amenities: Burke Centre includes 5 pools, 6 ponds, 1 lake, tennis courts, and more than 30 miles of walking trails
  • Dining and Retail: Locally loved spots include Villa Bella, Spartans Family Restaurant, Panisa Thai, and plenty of national retailers for everyday convenience

Ready to Explore Burke?

If you're considering making a move to Burke, VA, now is a perfect time to explore what's available. Given its top ranking by U.S. News & World Report and the strong market conditions, homes in Burke continue to attract attention from savvy buyers who recognize the unmatched lifestyle it offers. Click here to view current listings in Burke, VA and find your dream home. Discover firsthand why Burke is not only the best place to live in Virginia, but perhaps the ideal place for you to call home. Stay connected and get live updates by following us and visiting our website www.colganteam.com for all your real estate needs in Northern Virginia.

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Chris Colgan
Chris Colgan Team | EXP Realty
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