Lorton

About Lorton

Lorton is a small community just 20 miles from Washington, D.C., located in the southern region of Virginia's Fairfax County. In recent years, the town has experienced significant growth, especially with the construction and expansion of many retail centers. Many young families call the area home, attracted by well-rated schools and a convenient location.

The History of Lorton

The Lorton area has been inhabited for centuries, but it began to develop the identity it has today when Joseph Plasket and his family settled the area in the 1850s. The community earned a spot on the map when it gained its first post office, known as Laurel Hill, in 1875. The arrival of the railroad and the establishment of a telegraph office and general store meant additional growth for the community, which changed its name to Lorton in the 1880s. Today, a number of historic landmarks throughout the community, including Gunston Hall and George Mason's former home, Belvoir, offer an interesting glimpse of its past.

Jobs in Lorton

The Lorton area's major employers include government agencies, food production facilities and manufacturing companies. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Customs and Border Protection are two of the area's largest federal government employers, while Frito-Lay is one of Lorton's largest private employers. Major fast-food chain Five Guys is headquartered in Lorton as well.

Recent development has provided a major boost to the Lorton retail scene, with the expansion and new construction of several large retail centers in the area. One of the largest of these is the Gunston Plaza Shopping Center, which features a post office, a fitness center, restaurants, big-box stores, a senior center and several locally-owned shops.

In Lorton and the greater northern Virginia metropolitan area, professional and business services, government, education and health services are the dominant industries. If you're looking to make a move to an in-demand industry, keep an eye on the fast-growing fields of construction, education and health services.

Lorton Schools

Lorton students attend Fairfax County Public Schools, a large district that serves many communities in the region. In addition to the district's traditional elementary, middle and high schools, there are several alternative high schools and special education centers.

Resources for Moving to Lorton

If you're getting ready to move to Lorton, the following information will be useful:

• Utilities: Your major utilities providers in Lorton are Dominion Energy, Washington Gas and Fairfax Water.
• Garbage and Recycling: Fairfax County contracts with American Disposal for collection of trash and recycling.
• Transportation: Public transit options in Lorton include the Virginia Railway Express, Amtrak, the Fairfax Connector and the privately-owned Vamoose Bus.

Lorton Housing

Lorton is home to high-density apartment complexes, spacious single-family homes and everything in between. If easy access to the Washington, D.C., area is a major priority for you, focus your home search near Interstate 95. If land and extra space are your primary concerns, look for a home near the Laurel Hill Golf Club.