Mclean

Luxury Homes for Sale in McLean, VA

Source: Realtor

McLean, Virginia is not your ordinary suburb; this area is as affluent as almost any other, yet is far from being ostentatious. Close to the heart of government, the suburb is a popular choice for those who work in our country's security, military, and government offices. Here you’ll find gated communities and hidden estates surrounded by trees and discreet entrances. These are just some of the ways McLean maintains its spirit of exclusivity and luxury. McLean, VA’s real estate market offers a wealth of opportunities for discerning buyers.

If you’re looking to relocate to an area that has fantastic luxury housing options, great amenities including a top schooling system, and an unrivaled lifestyle, McLean might be the perfect place for you.

A Brief History

In 1818, McLean was settled by a farmer named Thomas Lewis. He built a house on a small hill near the Potomac River and named this property “Langley,” after a nearby town. This farm prospered and grew, and in time the area around Langley became known as “Langley’s Crossroads.”

In 1866, a post office was established and the area was officially named “McLean” to honor John Roll McLean, the owner of The Washington Post. The community itself was founded when the communities of Langley and Lewinsville merged.

In the late 19th century, the arrival of the Great Falls and Old Dominion railroad brought easier access to the area, spurring growth and turning McLean into a popular destination. The town became a popular place for high-net-worth individuals looking to build summer homes and grand estates.

Today, McLean has a thriving population who enjoy restaurants, shops, and a flourishing job market. It is also home to the corporate headquarters of USA Today, MITRE Corporation, Hilton Worldwide, and many other top companies.

Luxury Homes for Sale in McLean, VA

Luxury homes in McLean, VA embody the area’s history with their captivating blend of styles. From Georgian and Colonial to Tudor, Mediterranean, and sleek Modern designs, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a mansion, an elegant estate, a modern masterpiece, or a charming villa, there’ll be something in McLean you’ll love.

At the upper end of the luxury market, the homes are truly spectacular. You can host gatherings in formal dining rooms or unwind in cozy libraries meticulously designed with built-in bookshelves. For those who love the outdoors, these remarkable luxury properties offer sprawling lawns beautifully landscaped gardens, and private terraces with views of the Potomac River. Tennis courts, infinity pools, and outdoor kitchens are just a few of the luxury amenities you’ll find in many of these homes. You’ll even find wellness areas with saunas, fitness rooms, and indoor pools.

Experience the best entertainment in the luxury homes of McLean, where you can indulge in private theaters, game rooms, and wine cellars. The luxury homes for sale in McLean, VA provide a combination of comfort, security, privacy, and luxury.

Take a look at the available luxury homes in these neighborhoods by heading to this page.

Top Neighborhoods

This delightful suburban town boasts a variety of neighborhoods that perfectly cater to your real estate preferences. Here are a few noteworthy neighborhoods to keep in mind:

• Ballantrae Farms
• Chain Bridge Forest
• Chesterbrook Gardens
• Chesterbrook Woods
• Evans Farm
• Ingleside
• Langley Forest
• McLean Hamlet
• Salona Village
• The Reserve
• The Signet
• West McLean
• West Langley
• Westhampton
• Woodhaven

Lifestyle in McLean, VA

Life in McLean is to be enjoyed. There are top restaurants, fantastic shopping options with high-end boutiques, cultural and historical attractions, and year-round events that bind the community. For those with families, there’s a great schooling system, whether you choose private or public. Simply put, the quality of life you can live in Mclean is excellent.

Education

This suburb provides numerous options for both private and public schools. McLean benefits from the Fairfax County Public School (FCPS) system, the largest public school system in Virginia. Many schools in McLean have earned recognition with several receiving awards from esteemed national organizations like the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program.

Some of the top-rated schools in McLean include:

Elementary:

• Westbriar
• Spring Hill
• Haycock
• Kent Gardens
• Colvin Run
• Churchill Road
• Sherman

Middle School:

• Williamsburg
• Mary Ellen Henderson
• Longfellow
• Cooper

High School:

• Mclean
• James Madison
• George C. Marshall

Private & Charter:

• The Madeira
• The Country Day School
• The Langley
• St. Luke Catholic
• St. John the Beloved Academy
• Ambleside
• Brookfield

Cost of Living

Mclean is considerably more expensive than the national average in terms of cost of living. In an index where the national average cost of living was set at 100, Mclean scored 149.7. Virginia as a whole was more in line with the national average scoring 104.2. You can expect to be paying a little more for your groceries, transportation, and miscellaneous costs than in most other area in the US. Healthcare though, is very much in line with the national average, with the score set at 102.1.

However, it is in the housing market that the difference can be truly seen. The median home sells for over $1M, and there are many luxury homes for sale in McLean, VA that sell for much higher.

In such a prestigious, and highly sought-after neighborhood, these figures are to be expected. With its great housing options and fantastic amenities, McLean is not exorbitantly expensive but the cost of living does reflect the elevated lifestyle residents enjoy.

Dining

McLean has a dining scene that’s nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you’re looking for a perfect spot to enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal, dining with friends, or with your family, the restaurants here do not disappoint. Here are just a few of our recommendations:

Divan Restaurant
1313 Old Chain Bridge Road

This lovely establishment offers authentic Persian-Mediterranean cuisine that will transport you to places far away across the world.

Traditional Persian food is known for its use of fresh spices and herbs such as saffron, combined with the flavors of barberry, cinnamon, and pomegranate. There’s an abundance of dried fruits, nuts, and beans, so the meals tend to be healthy as well as delicious. From Dolmeh Badamjan (stuffed eggplants) and Grilled Octopus to Chenjeh (kebobs) and Shrimp Ceviche, each bite is a delight.

Cafe Tatti
6627 Old Dominion Dr

Cafe Tatti is like a cozy European bistro tucked away in McLean. This charming restaurant has an inviting ambiance reminiscent of French cafes at their simple best. Their menu features an array of European-inspired dishes, such as Quiche Loraine, Chicken Escalopene, Toast Simon-Simon, Check Francaise, Chicken A La Tatti, and Chicken Parmesan.

J. Gilbert’s – Wood Fired Steaks & Seafood
6930 Old Dominion Drive

This refined steakhouse takes pride in serving cuts of meat that are expertly prepared to perfection. Whether you have a preference for a ribeye or a tender mignon that simply melts in your mouth, J. Gilberts guarantees both flavor and superior quality. In addition to their steak meals, they also provide seafood preparations, power lunches to keep you fueled throughout the day, homemade desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth, and handcrafted martinis & cocktails to complement your dining experience.

J. Gilberts provides a venue for hosting banquets, celebrating graduation parties, organizing wedding rehearsal dinners, conducting business meetings, or commemorating any special event that needs an elegant ambiance and exceptional dining experience.

The Union
1379 Beverly Rd

This relaxed downtown McLean restaurant is a hotspot where creativity and innovation come together. Family-owned, The Union is the result of Chef Sastry's travels, bringing together food ideas from all over the world. It comes highly recommended by Restaurant Guru 2022.

Indulge in a dining experience at this establishment offering an array of cocktails, small plates, and delightful entrees. Explore their selection of soups like the Union Cobb, brunch favorites such as Huevos Rancheros, brunch beverages like the Bloody Mary, and satisfying main courses like the Grilled NY Steak (8oz) or the Ancient Grain Bowl. Don't miss out on their Happy Hour Menu and Kids Menu catering to families.

Sweet Leaf Cafe
1359 Old Chain Bridge Rd

This cafe takes pride in its reputation for serving some of the best coffee in McLean. Whether you're an espresso enthusiast, a fan of lattes, or someone who enjoys a drip coffee, you'll find your ideal cup here. If coffee isn't your preference there’s an assortment of teas, shakes, and smoothies.

Sweet Leaf offers a menu that strikes the balance between flavor, nutrition, and freshness. Each meal features the right amount of meat and an array of greens. Try their Bigfin, Brussel + Pear Steak Taco, Greek Roots, Kale Kobb, and Chimichurri.

Shopping

It’s difficult to talk about shopping options in McLean without mentioning Tysons Corner Center. This shopping mecca has over 300 stores, including high-end boutiques, department stores, and countless dining options. If you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, you’ll find them at stores like Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, and Macy’s. You can also find premium stores and brands such as Adidas and Apple.

Just across from Tysons Corner Center lies Tysons Galleria, the upscale sibling of its neighbor. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, then this is the place to be with high-end brands like Versace, Gucci, and Channel at every corner.

Don’t forget about the McLean Shopping Center. This charming retail strip offers a mix of local boutiques, specialty shops, and dining options that add a unique touch to your shopping experience. For a different shopping experience, wait for Friday when local vendors gather to offer fresh produce, handmade crafts, artisanal foods, and more at the McLean Farmer’s Market.

If you’re looking for grocery stores, then head on to:

• Trader’s Joe
• Mom’s Organic Market
• Arrowine & Cheese
• H Mart – Falls Church
• Whole Foods Market

Parks and Trails

McLean has a network of parks and trails that offer tranquility and breathtaking beauty. The parks in McLean have colorful playgrounds, whimsical carousel rides, and numerous picnic areas. While most parts cater to hikers, cyclists, and adventure enthusiasts, there are also parks specifically designed to be accessible for children with disabilities such as Clemyjontri Park. Other parks and trails in McLean include:

• Scott’s Run Nature Preserve
• Great Falls Park
• Riverbend Park
• Mclean Central Park
• Fort Marcy
• Turkey Run Park
• Spring Hill District Park
• Pimmit Run Stream Valley Park

Arts and Culture

Culture and the arts are vibrant in historical McLean and many spots will captivate and inspire you. Below are some recommended destinations where you can enjoy entertainment and events:

• Alden Theatre
• McLean Project for the Arts (MPA)
• The Alden B. Dow Museum of Science and Art
• Capital One Hall
• The Emerson, Atrium, and Ramp Galleries within the McLean Community Center
• Dumbarton Oaks

Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, you’ll be able to enjoy and even take part in a variety of events and festivals. Some of the more notable ones include:

• McLean Chocolate Festival: Held each year in January, it’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Local chocolatiers and bakeries showcase their creations that are beautiful to behold and almost a shame to eat. Indulge in everything chocolate from truffles and cakes to hot cocoa and more.
• McLean Day: Held each May, McLean Day is a day-long celebration filled with live music, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and exciting activities for all ages. It’s a great opportunity to meet your neighbors, discover local talent, and create lasting memories with family and friends.
• T.G.I.F Carnival Rides: Held every summer, the TGIF Carnival Rides offer classic Ferris wheels and adrenaline-pumping roller coasters in Lewinsville Park.
• International Festival: This cultural extravaganza, typically held in September, brings together the rich tapestry of McLean’s diverse community. With international cuisine, live performances, and cultural exhibits, it’s a journey around the world without leaving McLean.
• MPAartfest: Hosted by the McLean Projects for the Arts(MPA), this annual event that happens in October turns Central Park into a vibrant art museum. Aside from the rows of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and photographs, you’ll also find live music, food trucks, and creative activities for kids.
• McLean WinterFest: As winter comes to McLean, the town transforms into a winter wonderland. You’ll find the town featuring festive lights, holiday parades, and a tree-lighting ceremony.

Partner with the Circadian Team

Discover your dream home from the selection of luxury homes for sale in McLean, VA with The Circadian Team, a highly reputable group of realtors serving the Northern Virginia region. With a focus on service and effective marketing, Circadian provides tailored solutions to not only simplify but also to make buying or selling a home more successful for our clients.

Over the years, Circadian has fostered connections and collaborations with businesses ensuring that they offer top-notch services. Experience a stress-free real estate journey by reaching out to them at 703.783.7485 or by sending a message here.