Is Oakcrest safe?
Arlington, Virginia · safety score updated nightly
Yes — it is one of the safer places in the metro to walk around.
VibeLoco rates Oakcrest as “Go”.
Gogo's take on Oakcrest
“Go. Oakcrest is an exceptionally safe, quiet, and well-maintained residential neighborhood in Arlington. Visitors will find virtually no violent crime risk and a peaceful, family-oriented atmosphere.”
About the area
Oakcrest is a tranquil enclave in Arlington characterized by leafy streets, manicured single-family homes, and modest apartment complexes. It offers visitors easy access to nearby bustling commercial corridors while maintaining a secluded suburban neighborhood vibe.
- Suburban Enclave
- Quiet & Leafy
- Family-Friendly
- Safe & Residential
Walking and biking in Oakcrest
Walk score: 58/100 · Bike score: 68/100
Capital Bikeshare docks are available along adjacent major corridors, providing direct connection to the Custis Trail and Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail network.
Reasons to go, and reasons to think twice
Pros
- Significantly lower violent and property crime rates compared to national averages
- High median household incomes and exceptionally well-maintained residential properties
- Quiet, low-traffic neighborhood streets suitable for walking at any hour
- Close proximity to regional multi-use trails and Northern Virginia dining hubs
Cons
- Suburban residential layout requires driving or bus connections to reach major attractions
- Occasional opportunistic property crimes such as unlocked car trespassing
- Limited commercial dining and entertainment directly within the neighborhood borders
Homelessness: Visible homelessness is not a notable presence in this residential neighborhood, with outreach and support services concentrated along major regional transit corridors in the wider county.
What Oakcrest is like at each time of day
- Morning · 5a – 11a
- Peaceful and serene with neighbors walking dogs, jogging, and heading out for morning commutes.
- Afternoon · 11a – 5p
- Quiet and sunlit with light residential traffic and very safe conditions throughout.
- Evening · 5p – 10p
- Calm and residential with families relaxing outdoors and well-lit residential side streets.
- Late night · 10p – 5a
- Very low activity and quiet streets; walking remains safe though general nighttime awareness is advisable.
Transit, parking and getting around
Arlington Transit (ART) and WMATA Metrobus routes serve the surrounding arterials, connecting riders to the East Falls Church or Ballston-MU Metrorail stations (Orange/Silver lines) in roughly 10-15 minutes.
Street parking on residential roads is abundant and largely free, though some streets require Arlington County residential permits during weekday business hours.
Things to do in Oakcrest
- Stroll or jog through the quiet, tree-lined residential streets and local green spaces
- Connect to the nearby Custis Trail or W&OD Trail for long-distance cycling and walking
- Explore the nearby Westover village center for local bakeries, craft beer, and community events
Local favorites
- Westover Market & Beer Garden · Grocery & Beer Garden · 4.5★ (850)A neighborhood staple featuring an extensive craft beer selection, deli, and vibrant patio seating.
- Lost Dog Cafe - Westover · Pizza & Sandwich Shop · 4.6★ (1200)Beloved local spot known for specialty gourmet pizzas, hefty sandwiches, and supporting animal rescue.
- Toby's Homemade Ice Cream · Ice Cream Shop · 4.7★ (620)Cozy, family-owned creamery serving small-batch ice cream and local favorite seasonal flavors.
Scores are safety-driven — recent reported crime and local news plus Census income, poverty, housing, education, household and access data — refreshed nightly. Walk and bike scores are shown separately and do not affect the safety score. A guide, not a guarantee — conditions change street to street.