Burke, VA

A comprehensive guide to buying a home in Burke: neighborhoods, market trends, schools, and lifestyle.

$757K
Median Price
14 days
Avg Days on Market
$235K–$1.8M
Price Range

Overview

Burke, Virginia, nestled in Fairfax County, is a highly desirable community known for its mature trees, excellent schools, and convenient access to both urban amenities and natural beauty. The centerpiece of Burke is undoubtedly Burke Lake Park, a sprawling 218-acre lake and surrounding parkland offering a plethora of recreational opportunities, from fishing and boating to hiking and miniature golf. This park alone makes Burke a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond the park, Burke offers a diverse range of housing options, from affordable townhomes perfect for first-time buyers to sprawling single-family estates. Its well-planned neighborhoods, coupled with a strong sense of community, make Burke a popular choice for families. The area benefits from its proximity to major employers in the Washington D.C. metro area, easily accessible via the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) and major highways. Burke provides a balanced lifestyle, offering a suburban retreat with easy access to the cultural and professional opportunities of the nation's capital. Its commitment to quality schools and safe neighborhoods solidifies Burke's position as one of the most sought-after communities in Northern Virginia, particularly for those prioritizing a family-friendly environment and a convenient commute.

Neighborhoods

Burke Centre

$350K–$1.2MEstablished family-friendly community

Burke Centre is a large, well-established planned community known for its mature trees, numerous community pools, and a strong sense of community. It offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums.

Burke Station Square

$400K–$850KConvenient commuter-friendly neighborhood

Located close to the Burke Centre VRE station, Burke Station Square features a mix of townhomes and single-family homes, offering convenient access to transportation and local amenities.

Longwood Knolls

$900K–$1.8MUpscale quiet residential

Longwood Knolls is an upscale neighborhood featuring large, well-maintained single-family homes on spacious lots. It is known for its quiet streets and proximity to Burke Lake Park.

Cherry Run

$450K–$1.1MSuburban convenient established

Cherry Run is a mix of housing options offering a range of sizes and styles. Near major roads with access to shopping and dining.

Keene Mill

$300K–$900KFamily-oriented accessible community

Keene Mill is a well-established neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and townhomes, known for its convenient location and access to local schools.

Signal Hill

$275K - $750KCommunity-focused convenient suburban

Signal Hill offers diverse housing options, close to shopping, dining and Burke Lake Park. Community is popular with families.

Market Trends

The Burke real estate market is currently experiencing a period of strong demand and limited inventory. Homes are selling quickly, often within an average of just 14 days on the market, indicating a competitive environment for buyers. The median home price in Burke is approximately $757,000, reflecting the desirability of the area and the quality of the housing stock. However, the price range is broad, spanning from approximately $235,000 for townhomes to upwards of $1.8 million for larger, more luxurious single-family homes in neighborhoods like Longwood Knolls. Multiple offer situations are common, especially for well-maintained properties in desirable locations. Buyers need to be prepared to act quickly and potentially offer above the asking price to secure a home. Interest rates remain a key factor influencing the market, with fluctuations potentially impacting affordability and buyer demand. Overall, Burke remains a seller's market, but buyers who are well-prepared, pre-approved for a mortgage, and working with an experienced real estate agent can still find success in this competitive environment. Staying informed on the latest market data and being ready to make swift decisions are crucial for navigating the Burke real estate landscape.

Living in Burke

Schools

Excellent
SOL Pass Rate86%

Top Schools

  • Lake Braddock Secondary School
  • Robinson Secondary School
  • White Oaks Elementary

Commute

Drive to DC35 min
RailVRE (Burke Centre station)

Major Routes

I-495, Rt 123, Burke Centre Pkwy

Walkability

Walk Score22/100
Transit Score15/100
Bike Score25/100

Almost All Errands Require a Car

Safety

Very Safe

49% below Virginia average

Violent crime0.5 per 1K
Property crime8.2 per 1K

Property Tax

Rate$1.11 per $100
2024

Fairfax County rate

Schools

Burke boasts a highly regarded school system within Fairfax County Public Schools. The area is served by several top-rated schools, including Lake Braddock Secondary School and Robinson Secondary School. These schools consistently achieve high SOL (Standards of Learning) pass rates, demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence. White Oaks Elementary is another well-regarded elementary school in the area. Parents are drawn to Burke for the quality of its schools, and this is a significant factor driving demand in the real estate market. Prospective homebuyers should research specific school boundaries and consider the academic performance and extracurricular activities offered by the schools serving their desired neighborhood. The excellent reputation of Burke's schools contributes significantly to the area's desirability and property values.

Commute & Transportation

Burke offers convenient commuting options for residents working in Washington D.C. and the surrounding areas. The Virginia Railway Express (VRE) has a station in Burke Centre, providing direct rail access to Union Station in downtown D.C. The drive to D.C. is approximately 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Major highways serving Burke include I-495 (the Capital Beltway), Route 123, and Burke Centre Parkway. While there is no direct Metro access in Burke, the Vienna/Fairfax-GMU station on the Orange Line is within a reasonable driving distance, providing another option for reaching D.C. and other parts of the metro area. The Walk Score in Burke is 22/100 and the Transit Score is 15/100, so a car is needed to run errands.

Lifestyle & Community

Burke provides a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to amenities. Burke Lake Park is a major draw, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking. The area also features numerous smaller parks and playgrounds. Shopping and dining options are plentiful, with a variety of local restaurants and retail centers located throughout Burke. The community has a strong sense of belonging, with numerous neighborhood associations and community events. The overall atmosphere in Burke is family-friendly, with a focus on outdoor recreation and community engagement. Residents enjoy a comfortable suburban lifestyle with easy access to the cultural and professional opportunities of the Washington D.C. metro area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the property taxes like in Burke?

The property tax rate in Fairfax County, where Burke is located, is approximately $1.11 per $100 of assessed value. This rate may vary slightly depending on specific tax districts.

How close is Burke to Washington, D.C.?

Burke is approximately 20 miles southwest of Washington, D.C. The drive typically takes about 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The VRE provides a convenient alternative for commuting to the city.

What is Burke Lake Park like?

Burke Lake Park is a 218-acre park and lake offering a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, miniature golf, a carousel, and a miniature train. It is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Are there many community events in Burke?

Yes, Burke has a very active community with a calendar of events happening year round, from holiday celebrations to community yard sales. Burke Centre in particular offers residents many community events.

How are the schools in Burke?

The schools in Burke are highly rated and are part of Fairfax County Public Schools. Top schools include Lake Braddock Secondary School, Robinson Secondary School and White Oaks Elementary School.

Is Burke a safe place to live?

Yes, Burke is considered a very safe place to live. Crime rates are significantly lower than the Virginia average, making it an attractive community for families.

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