Arlington Named Top Digital County for 2026
Published on July 17, 2026
Arlington County is once again ranked among the top digital counties in the country.
The Center for Digital Government (CDG), in partnership with the National Association of Counties (NACo), has named Arlington No. 2 in their 2026 awards in the 150,000-249,999-population category.
This continues Arlington’s recognition for its efforts in technology. This year's award marks the 15th time Arlington has been designated within the top three counties, with seven of those years earning the number one ranking.
“Arlington County is honored to be recognized in the 2026 Digital Counties Survey for our work in advancing how technology supports services and operations,” said Holly Hartell, Director and Chief Information Officer for the Department of Technology Services. “It reflects the work we do every day to implement our mission, namely embracing technologies to achieve better business outcomes while incorporating innovation, security, and sustainability.”
The annual award evaluates counties across their strengths in strategic planning, cybersecurity, digital services, organizational technology leadership, data management, and innovation. It also highlights practices that help counties strengthen performance and navigate fiscal and operational demands.
Arlington’s Digital Strategy defines a framework to provide individuals access the information they need, when they need it, and the way they want it. The County’s technology investments focus on satisfying constituent needs, developing a “digital mindset” with a focus on the future, and utilizing technology to make a difference in people’s everyday lives. Learn more about the department’s strategic goals and portfolio of work.
About the Digital Counties Survey Award
The Digital Counties Survey Award provides an annual measure of performance and innovation in using technology by taking an in-depth look at the programs and plans of counties across the nation.
This year’s award recipients reflect a continued shift toward stronger technology governance, improved constituent experience, data-informed decision-making, workforce readiness, and the responsible adoption of emerging tools.