History & Growth of Sterling, Virginia
Sterling, Virginia is known for its convenient location and access to a variety of amenities and activities.
Sterling was originally settled in the mid-19th century and was primarily an agricultural community. In the latter half of the 20th century, the area experienced significant growth as it became a suburb of Washington, D.C. Today, Sterling is a thriving community with a diverse economy.
The major industry sectors in Sterling and the surrounding area include information technology, government, and professional and business services.
Major Attractions and Area Surrounding Sterling, Virginia
The nearest big city to Sterling, Virginia is Washington, D.C., which is about 30 minutes away by car. This proximity to the nation's capital provides Sterling residents with easy access to a wide range of cultural, educational, and employment opportunities.
Here are some major attractions and destinations in and around Sterling:
- W&OD Trail: This popular bike trail runs through Sterling and offers a scenic route for walking, running, and cycling.
- Cascades Overlook: This shopping center features a variety of stores and restaurants, as well as a fountain and outdoor seating area.
- Algonkian Regional Park: This large park offers a variety of recreational activities, including golf, picnicking, and hiking trails.
- Reston Town Center: This popular destination is about 15 minutes away from Sterling and features shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
- Dulles Town Center: This large mall is located in Sterling and offers a variety of stores and restaurants.
- Washington, D.C.: As mentioned above, the nation's capital is a short drive from Sterling and offers a wide range of cultural and educational opportunities.
Schools Systems in Sterling, Virginia
Here is a list of public and private schools in Sterling, Virginia:
Public schools
- Dominion High School: This high school has received a GreatSchools Rating of 8 out of 10 based on test scores and other performance data.
- Park View High School: This high school has received a GreatSchools Rating of 7 out of 10 based on test scores and other performance data.
- River Bend Middle School: This middle school has received a GreatSchools Rating of 6 out of 10 based on test scores and other performance data.
Private schools
- Sterling Montessori School: This private school has received a GreatSchools Rating of 9 out of 10 based on test scores and other performance data.
- Sterling Christian School: This private school has received a GreatSchools Rating of 7 out of 10 based on test scores and other performance data.
Salaries, Crime, and Demographics of Sterling, Virginia
Salaries in Sterling
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary in Sterling, Virginia is higher than the national average across a variety of industries. As of 2020, the average salary for all occupations in Sterling was $95,640, compared to the national average of $53,490.
The highest-paying industries in Sterling include the professional, scientific, and technical services sector, with an average salary of $121,510, and the finance and insurance sector, with an average salary of $112,630. The information technology (IT) sector is also a significant contributor to the local economy, with an average salary of $104,610. These industries are driven by the presence of several large data centers and technology companies in the area.
Crime Statistics for Sterling
According to the most recent data from the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program, Sterling, Virginia has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the United States. In 2019, the total number of reported crimes in Sterling was 1,821, with a population of around 29,000 people. This resulted in a crime rate of 6,280 per 100,000 people, which is lower than the national average of 3,964 per 100,000 people.
Sterling has a relatively low rate of violent crimes, with only 30 reported incidents in 2019, resulting in a rate of 103 per 100,000 people. Property crime rates in Sterling are also low, with a rate of 5,177 per 100,000 people. These statistics suggest that Sterling is a relatively safe place to live.
Demographics of Sterling
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Sterling, Virginia is a diverse and rapidly growing community. As of 2020, the population of Sterling is estimated to be around 29,000 people. The racial makeup of Sterling is primarily White (58.7%), followed by Asian (24.7%), African American (13.3%), and Hispanic or Latino (8.5%).
The median age of the population is 35.1 years old. The majority of the population in Sterling is married (58.3%), and around 60.5% of the population over 25 years old hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The city is relatively young, with around 20% of the population under 18 years old. The city is diverse in terms of education, income and occupation, and it is a growing community that attracts people from all over the country.
Other Cities and Areas Near Sterling, Virginia
Here are some cities or areas that are outside the boundaries of Sterling, Virginia, but nearby:
This city is located just a few miles south of Sterling and is known for its good schools and numerous parks and recreation facilities. It is a popular destination for families with children, as well as for young professionals who work in the tech industry.
Leesburg is located about 15 miles west of Sterling and is known for its historic downtown area, which features a mix of charming boutiques, restaurants, and antique stores. It is a popular destination for those who enjoy small-town charm and a slower pace of life, and is known for its beautiful countryside and numerous wineries.
Reston, Virginia
Reston is located about 10 miles east of Sterling and is known for its diverse population and numerous tech companies. It is a popular destination for those who enjoy urban amenities and a more cosmopolitan atmosphere, and is known for its numerous green spaces and recreational opportunities.