McLean, Virginia sits about 10 miles from downtown Washington, D.C., along the Potomac River in Fairfax County. It is known for large lots, wooded streets, strong public schools and quick access to Tysons, the Capital Beltway and the George Washington Memorial Parkway. My office on Boone Blvd in Vienna is a short drive away, so I work with McLean buyers and sellers regularly. This guide covers what to know before you buy: where McLean is, its neighborhoods, taxes, schools, commute and how to compete.
What Kind of Homes Are in McLean?
McLean is mostly single-family homes on larger lots, from established mid-century houses to rebuilt custom homes and estates. There are also townhomes and condos, especially closer to Tysons. Because the range is so wide, a single “McLean median” tells you little. A home near downtown McLean and an estate off Georgetown Pike are different markets. Ask me for recent sales on your target streets, and I will show you what similar homes actually closed for.
Many buyers also ask about new construction. See my post on new developments in McLean to watch in 2026.
Popular McLean Neighborhoods
- Langley: large-lot single-family homes near Langley High School.
- Chesterbrook: an established community of about 540 homes with shared parks, trails, a pool and tennis courts.
- Salona Village: custom estates and large lots in a quiet, wooded setting.
- Georgetown Pike corridor: a scenic road with estates and views toward the Potomac River valley.
- Langley Farms and Langley Oaks: newer and renovated homes on substantial lots.
- Downtown McLean: walkable shops and restaurants around Old Chain Bridge Road.
- Great Falls Park: about 800 acres with a 77-foot waterfall, hiking and kayaking.
- McLean Community Center: a pool, tennis courts, fitness classes and local programs.
- Tysons Galleria and Tysons Corner Center: shopping and dining about 10 minutes away.
- Georgetown Pike: a popular cycling route with river views.
- Get pre-approved first, and check that your loan limit fits McLean prices. See our common loan types, since many McLean purchases need a jumbo loan.
- Price your offer on recent sales, not the list price.
- Look beyond the finishes. On older homes, inspect the roof, HVAC, drainage and septic or sewer connection.
- Know your lot and setback rules if you plan to expand or rebuild.
- Work with an agent who knows the area. Read how a buyer’s agent works.
To see what is on the market now, browse my McLean homes for sale page.
Property Taxes in McLean
McLean is in Fairfax County, which adopted a real estate tax rate of $1.12 per $100 of assessed value for fiscal year 2027, down from $1.1225. For example, a home assessed at $1.5 million would owe about $16,800 a year at that rate, before any special district charges. Rates and assessments change, so confirm the numbers for the exact address on the Fairfax County website.
Schools
McLean is served by Fairfax County Public Schools. Two high schools serve the area: McLean High School and Langley High School, depending on where the home is located. Elementary and middle school assignments also depend on the street, and boundaries can change. Always check the address with the FCPS boundary tool before you make an offer, not the listing.
Commute and Getting Around
Most residents drive. The Capital Beltway (I-495) is the main route, I-66 leads toward downtown D.C., and the George Washington Memorial Parkway follows the Potomac. Metro’s Silver Line serves Tysons, a short drive from McLean, and both Reagan National and Dulles airports are roughly 25 minutes away without heavy traffic. Rush-hour times vary a lot, so test your commute at the hours you will actually travel.
Things to Do Near McLean
How to Compete in McLean
Frequently Asked Questions
Is McLean, VA a good place to buy a home?
Many buyers think so. McLean combines larger lots, well-regarded schools, nearby parks and a short drive to Tysons and D.C. The trade-offs are higher prices than much of Northern Virginia and limited Metro access in town itself.
Is there Metro service in McLean?
Downtown McLean itself is not on a Metro line, but the Silver Line at Tysons is a short drive away.
What are property taxes in McLean?
Fairfax County’s FY2027 real estate tax rate is $1.12 per $100 of assessed value. Your bill depends on the assessment for the exact property.
How much do I need to buy in McLean?
It depends on the home and your financing. Use our mortgage calculator for an estimate, then talk to a lender for exact numbers.
Ready to Look at Homes in McLean?
Browse my McLean homes for sale page, see nearby Vienna, Falls Church and Reston, or read the wider Northern Virginia homes for sale guide. Thinking of selling instead? Get a free home value estimate.
Contact me today to start your McLean search, or call my direct line at 202-710-3342.
Mukaram Ghani
RE/MAX Galaxy, 8100 Boone Blvd, Suite 260, Vienna, VA 22182
Tax and school information comes from Fairfax County sources and changes often, so confirm before you rely on it. This article is for general information only and isn’t financial, tax or legal advice.