Where is it? Claremont is one of Arlington’s southern-most neighborhoods, conveniently located a mile from the intersection of Rt 7 and 395. Host to Claremont Immersion School (dual language), Wakefield High, and Barcroft Park, it’s made up of very well-constructed cape cod and colonial homes built in the late 1940s and is a National Historic District.
About the interviewee: Merryl Burpoe, an energy consultant, moved to Claremont in 1988 where she and her husband raised three children (cute kids pictured are Merryl’s grandchildren). They purchased an original colonial home and like many families in Claremont, instead of moving away for more space, they expanded in place, including a beautiful wrap-around porch! They chose Claremont for the commute, school system, Barcroft Park, and affordability.
What makes Claremont unique? Our neighbors are so friendly, active, and diverse. It has a small town neighborhood feel with all of the benefits of being minutes from city amenities. It’s a “front-facing house” neighborhood; people spend time interacting from the front porch and kids play in the front yard/street. It’s incredible how many families choose to expand their home in order to stay here.
Where do you usually go out to eat? We usually go to the Village at Shirlington. I just hosted a girls’ weekend there and it was a blast! My favorite restaurants are Osteria Da Nino, Carlyle Grand Café, T.H.A.I., and Samuel Beckett’s for a drink!
Is it walkable/bike-friendly/family-friendly/dog-friendly? Yes, we regularly walk the park and to Shirlington. Yes, many neighbors commute to D.C. by bike. Yes, the biggest change in the neighborhood is the number of kids. The neighborhood hosts family-friendly events like a 4th of July and Halloween parade, chili cook-off, block parties, holiday lighting contest, and a garden club! The Claremont mini-park is very popular with kids. Oh my god yes, there are tons of dogs because of the lot sizes, nearby trails, and Shirlington Dog Park.
How do you feel about the local school system? South Arlington schools are very under-estimated. We had wonderful experiences with all three of our children and they felt the benefits of Arlington schools when they went to college.
What about public transportation? It’s great. Very easy access to bus stops, including the Shirlington Bus Station, and I often use the Pentagon City metro for trips into D.C. You’re also about 10 minutes from the airport.
What’s been your overall experience? It was the perfect place to raise a family and continues to be a wonderful location for my husband and I. We love being so close to the Kennedy Center and Old Town Alexandria too! Claremont isn’t as well known as other Arlington neighborhoods, but people should really come see the community, they’ll love it.
A quick look at some Claremont housing statistics:
- For Sale: There are currently two homes on the market in Claremont
- 5 year history: Lowest sale = $335,500, Highest sale = $759,500 (beautiful blue, expanded cape cod), Average sale = $558,000, Average days on market = 21 days (fast!), Average floor plan = 4BR/2BA
- Heating up: The average sold price from 2014-Today increased by $56,000 (over 10%) compared to the average sold price from 2011-2013
- Low turnover: In the last 10 years, there have been only 4 months with more than two homes sold
This is my first Neighborhood Profile and I’d love to hear what you think. Is there any information you’d like to see in future profiles? Send me an email with feedback or if you’re interested in being interviewed about your neighborhood! You’re not required to include your name or a photo.
