SciTech Townhomes offer space and affordability, while staying connected to it all

As the anchor for Northern Virginia’s first Innovation District, George Mason University’s Science and Technology Campus is going through a major growth spurt. The campus is powering new developments in high-tech industry sectors like life sciences, aerospace, and defense. A new, walkable Innovation Town Center is under construction near the front door of campus.

And George Mason employees now have the option to live in the center of it all.

The SciTech Townhomes, a new residential development directly connected to the SciTech Campus, presents an opportunity for George Mason to offer affordable, high-quality housing to faculty and staff. The university has purchased units with the sole purpose of renting them out to employees at affordable, below-market rates.

To date, George Mason has committed to purchasing 20 units in the community developed by Stanley Martin. The Board of Visitors approved the purchase of the condominiums in May 2025. 

Affordable housing for faculty and staff is a priority for George Mason.

"The new residential community near the SciTech Campus presents a strategic opportunity for the university to invest in faculty and staff success,” said Julie Zobel, senior vice president and chief operating officer. “Affordable, high-quality housing for faculty and staff will help George Mason attract and retain a talented workforce to serve our students. " 

Faculty and staff are eligible to rent spacious two- or three-bedroom, two-and-a-half bathroom units with private garages. A key benefit for faculty and staff renters? The affordability. Monthly rent starts at $2,200 a month. The most expensive units, at $2,800, include three bedrooms and private rooftop terraces. 

The cost of living in the Northern Virginia region has long been a challenge when it comes to recruiting and retaining talented faculty and staff. Long commuting distances from more affordable areas can strain the well-being of employees and increase the university’s carbon footprint.

The availability of affordable housing near campus can be a key selling point for faculty and staff, particularly those who are early in their careers or relocating from another area. Cat Forst, administrative coordinator in the Psychology Department, came to George Mason last April as a recent master’s graduate from Longwood University. Her role at George Mason is her first full-time job.

“When deciding where to live, the SciTech Townhomes stood out because of their affordability, quality, and location,” said Forst. “Finding something affordable in Northern Virginia was a major priority. This opportunity allowed us to live in a beautiful, high-quality home at a great price, which felt too good to pass up.”

Another resident of the SciTech Townhomes, who wished to stay anonymous, was drawn to the space and affordability of the units. 

“We were living in a one-bedroom apartment before, and things were getting pretty tight with space,” she said. “The opportunity arose to tour the SciTech homes, and we fell in love. I like the area and feel it is a safe place to live and walk my dog.” 

The townhomes are a strong option for those who work at the SciTech Campus, as well as those who work at other George Mason locations. George Mason Shuttles travel between the SciTech Campus and the Fairfax Campus, offering a free transit option for faculty, staff, and students. Riders can take the shuttle to the Fairfax Campus and connect from there to the Vienna Metro, Mason Square, and beyond. 

The SciTech Townhomes community will include a pool, clubhouse, playground, and pickleball courts. The Freedom Aquatic & Fitness Center and nearby trails offer recreation options within walking distance. 

Other local attractions include the Hylton Performing Arts Center, restaurants and shopping in Old Town Manassas, public parks, breweries, and more. The homes are located within the boundaries of Prince William County Schools, including Ellis Elementary School, Marsteller Middle School, and Unity Reed High School.

The SciTech Townhomes are not the university’s first real estate investment to support campus housing for faculty and staff. Masonvale, located on the Fairfax Campus, offers 157 rental units with one-, two-, and three-bedroom floorplans. Masonvale units are available for rent by George Mason employees or graduate students. Both communities are managed by Willow Bridge Property Company.

The SciTech Townhomes provide a vital opportunity for residents to live close to a world-class research university at a critical time, as the university anchors the new Innovation District.

“The Innovation District builds connections across research and industry sectors, supporting an innovative workforce,” said Amy Adams, executive director of the Innovation District and George Mason’s Institute for Biohealth Innovation. “The new residential development supports the innovation district's trajectory, providing opportunities for employees and students to live, work, and learn in a dynamic, innovative community.”

To learn more about the SciTech Townhomes, contact the property manager and visit scitechtownhomes.com.