Princedale

Once nothing but rolling hills, Dale City comprises nearly 20 planned communities that balance proximity to the big city and the tranquility of suburban life. In Princedale, daily essentials remain within reach to the east, while neighboring Independent Hill provides a backdrop of greenery for homes in the west.

Dubbed the Friendliest Little City Around at its formation, Dale City is planned with community in mind. Less than 35 miles from the nation’s capital, the streets of Princedale branch into cozy cul-de-sacs lined with colonial-style homes. Attached garages and paved driveways accompany well-manicured lawns, creating a unified look throughout the neighborhood. Sidewalks taper off as Dale Boulevard falls from view, the streets slow enough for pedestrian traffic along the edges. Lots extend to the curb and incorporate ornate shrubbery and decorative trees. Fenced-in backyards grant privacy and peace of mind, with space for dogs to run freely or families to host gatherings. Three-bedroom homes range from 1,400 to 2,400 square feet, with prices between $420,000 and $515,000. Larger homes in the neighborhood typically fall below $700,000, contrasting surrounding counties like Fairfax, where median home prices exceed $700,000. The tradeoff, as Lisa Patton of Samson Properties explains, is that “you’re probably adding on at least another 10-15 minutes to your commute,” a result of living farther south along the Interstate 95 corridor.

While commuting to the capital might put some extra miles on your car, you benefit from lower housing prices and well-rated schools. Students begin school steps from home at Rosa Parks Elementary, the large playground with slides and swings hard to miss while strolling down Princedale Drive. For middle school, students attend Saunders. From here, students transition to C.D. Hylton High, rated B+ and ranked the No. 15 Most Diverse Public High School in Virginia by Niche. When the school day ends, continue to learn at the local library, where you can strengthen second-language skills with conversation groups or improve reading skills with therapy dogs.

Though a planned community, Princedale isn't part of an association, giving more freedom to homeowners. Patton points out that the absence of an HOA means a lack of amenities; however, the neighborhood keeps recreational activities close to home courtesy of Dale City’s many shared spaces and facilities. Connect to the Neabsco Greenway with the Princedale Trailhead for scenic views through a forested walkway and a connective path to the Andrew Leitch Park, home to a basketball court, baseball field and Waterworks Waterpark. If the sun sets, but you’re still hungry for fun, put on your favorite fluorescent socks and bowl a strike at Bowlero, 4 miles away. The bowling alley hosts parties for all ages as well as social events, making it easy to meet others in the area. Should your stomach start rumbling louder than the lanes while you’re there, order burgers, wings or signature drinks right in house.

Convenience in the neighborhood isn’t limited to activities for free time; Princedale keeps practical needs close, too. With Mapledale Plaza about 2 miles away, you can buy fresh produce from Giant Food or order chicken biryani from Kabob G for dinner. Find veterinary care, fitness courses and healthcare facilities in the shopping center as well, allowing you to remain self-sufficient for day-to-day needs without needing to branch out to surrounding cities. Though the plaza provides a one-stop shop for the essentials, Potomac Mills takes care of anything and everything else. Find home furnishings at IKEA, cozy coats at North Face and the latest fashions at Calvin Klein, all just 7 miles from home. To reach these nearby destinations without needing to roll the car out of the garage, take advantage of the OmniLink and OmniRide stops along Dale Boulevard, Hoadly Road and Prince William Parkway.

When it’s time to travel outside the neighborhood, the nearby ramp to Interstate 95 directly connects counties north and south of Dale City. Whether traveling to Fairfax, Arlington or Washington, find exits along the highway for each destination. For travel outside the state, and perhaps even the country, reach Dulles International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in 30 miles. Find a place to call your own and access to all the activities you need in Princedale.

Written By

Alicia Swain

Photography Contributed By

Tyson Le

Video By

Sara Warthen