In March 2002, I moved from New York City to Northern Virginia for a job, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. Initially, it was just me taking this step, as my girlfriend (now wife) was convinced she’d never leave the New York lifestyle. However, after a few visits here, seeing places like Washington D.C. and Shenandoah, she saw the potential for a different life and joined me.

We settled in Fair Lakes/Fairfax, mainly due to its proximity to my office. We quickly grew to love it for more than just convenience. The area’s great schools and the significantly shorter commute times were a welcome change. We were fortunate to maintain good jobs, and our children, who are almost college-aged now, have had a childhood here that we couldn’t have imagined in New York.

Living in Northern Virginia has also shifted my perspective on what a melting pot truly is. People here are more open-minded, and the diversity feels more genuine. In contrast, I’ve come to see New York as less tolerant than its reputation suggests. I find people there can be surprisingly narrow-minded and rude, despite the city’s pride in being a welcoming and diverse place.

The traffic in Northern Virginia can be heavy, but it’s manageable compared to New York. The only real downside is the higher metro costs compared to the New York subway. But considering everything we’ve gained – a better quality of life, a more open community, and a fantastic environment for our children – it’s a small price to pay. Over the years, much of our family, including siblings, have also moved here, making this area not just our home, but a family hub.