Early industries such as farming, lumber and crushed firestone helped the small postal village of Clifton grow in the late 1800s. It was finally incorporated in 1902. Today Fairfax County thrives on technology-driven industries, such as aerospace, defense and intelligence systems, software development, telecommunications and the life sciences.

Many Fairfax Station and Clifton residents commute to work in the Washington, D.C., area or head to the nation's capital for entertainment, shopping, nightlife or for a cultural outing. Several popular cultural attractions are located in Fairfax County such as a replica of Fairfax Station. Housed in a beautifully-renovated Victorian-style structure, Fairfax Station serves as a museum dedicated to local railroading and Civil War memorabilia. The Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts in nearby Vienna is the first national park of its kind. The park is home to both the open-air Filene Center and the Barns Indoor Theaters, which are located within two restored 18th century barns. George Mason University's Center for the Arts and Patriot Center in Fairfax host a wide variety of musical and entertainment acts.

Originally known as Clifton Station and later shortened to its current name, Clifton exudes an old-fashioned quaintness that welcomes visitors and residents alike. With a downtown proper offering friendly coffee shops and boutique shopping, residents are worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Community events in Clifton include the Labor Day Car Show and Chili Cook-Off, the Clifton Caboose Twilight Run/Walk in June, Independence Day Parade and its very own annual fall festival of Clifton Day in October.