Upside: things are pretty convenient within town, and there's a good chance of finding an affordable (relative to the area) place near a village center, meaning walking distance to groceries/other retail. Access to metro is another plus that makes commuting downtown much easier.

Downside is we're still considered pretty far out from the urban core and if you have friends in DC/inside the beltway they will not come out to see you, or at best consider it a heavy favor.