McLean is one of the most affluent and economically vibrant communities in the United States. Its economic landscape is heavily defined by its proximity to Washington, D.C., and its overlap with the Tysons commercial district (much of which utilizes a McLean mailing address).
* **Government & Defense:** The most famous employer in McLean is the **Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)**, headquartered in the Langley neighborhood. * **Corporate Hubs:** The Tysons/McLean corridor is an economic powerhouse, hosting numerous corporate headquarters, consulting firms, defense contractors, and financial institutions. * **Retail & Shopping:** McLean proper retains a quaint, localized downtown area centered around Old Dominion Drive, featuring boutique shops and local services. Nearby, the **Tysons Corner Center** and **Tysons Galleria** offer world-class luxury retail, dining, and entertainment.