5 Things to Know About Living in Alexandria, VA Before Moving There

There is more to Alexandria, Virginia, than just its reputation as a riverside city.

The entire city is like a museum. Its history dates back to the mid-18th century, a period that has shaped its colonial history, cobblestone streets, and enough George Washington references to delight any history teacher.

You can practically trip over Revolutionary War landmarks on your way to brunch in Alexandria. But as much as history buffs in tricorn hats have a field day here, there are many other great things the city has in store.

So, before you move and begin to imagine yourself sipping local brew on King Street, here are five things you need to know about living in Alexandria, VA.

The Cost of Living is Not Cheap

One thing you must know about the average cost of living in Alexandria, VA, is that Alexandria is not a bargain.

With the cost of living a whopping 27% higher than the national average, you should expect to pay more for housing, groceries, utilities, and even transportation.

Median home prices float above $700,000 in some of the more desirable neighborhoods. Even one-bedroom apartments can nudge over $2,000 per month, depending on location. While a two-bedroom apartment rent is steadily pushing close to $3,000 per month.

• Average House Rent: $2,234
• Median Home Value: $702,500

As you can expect, transportation, groceries, and dining out also lean toward the pricier side. However, you can take comfort in the beauty of the location, its charm, and its walkability.

Here’s the good side…

Virginia does not impose a hefty sales tax on groceries — just about 1%. Although there is a state income tax, you pay according to your tax bracket at any of the following rates: 2%, 3%, 5%, and 5.75%. 

Note:

If you want to live in Alexandria without emptying your savings account, check out areas like Del Ray or Landmark/Van Dorn—they are a lot closer to the city center, where the action takes place.

Plus, for those relocating here, working with a moving company in Alexandria, VA, can save you money in the long run, especially if you are timing your move around work commitments.

The Economy is Good, and Job Opportunities Abound

If Alexandria had a LinkedIn profile, it would say “connected.”

Thanks to its next-door-neighbor status with the nation’s capital (literally a 15-minute drive or Metro ride), you get access to a booming metro economy without having to battle for parking in Capitol Hill.

Many of Alexandria’s residents are college graduates (about 65% of residents), and they work in government, defense, policy, education, healthcare, and consulting roles.

These opportunities are tied directly to D.C.’s ever-churning job market and help residents offset the cost of living in Alexandria, VA. 

Major employers and several federal contractors include:

• The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
• The Department of Defense
•  INOVA Health

Unemployment rates are low, even lower than the national average. Job growth is stable, and the diversity of its sectors strengthens the city’s economy. 

There’s also a healthy small business scene here that contributes to the economy of the city. Boutiques, coffee roasters, yoga studios, and start-ups that operate from high-ceiling co-working spaces are all part of what makes a living in Alexandria, VA, the dream for many. 

So whether you are chasing that federal gig or building your empire one Etsy order at a time, Alexandria’s economy won’t leave you stranded.

• Population: 155,230
• Median Household Income: $1113,638
• Unemployment Rate: 3.1%
• Poverty Rate: 8.4%

Education is Highly Valued

As highlighted earlier, Alexandria’s residents are mostly educated. With almost 93% of residents being high school graduates and a further 65% being college graduates, education appears to be a valuable currency here.

Surprisingly, the Alexandria City Public School District ranks better than only 22% of all U.S. school districts, but at least the system is quite diverse and inclusive. There are signature programs, such as dual-language immersion and STEM academies.

School performance varies by zone, so it’s worth checking neighborhood-specific data before locking in that lease or mortgage if you care about getting into a good school.

Note:

Living in Alexandria, VA, means valuing the city’s emphasis on lifelong learning. Public libraries and cultural institutions in the area all offer workshops and lectures year-round.

Some of the best schools you should be looking out for include:

• Waynewood Elementary
• Hayfield Elementary
• Island Creek Elementary
• Stratford Landing Elementary
• Clermont Elementary
• Bush Hill Elementary

The Crime Rate is Safer Than You Would Expect

Alexandria’s safety profile is pretty reassuring. Its crime rate is slightly below the national average for similarly sized cities. 

Although most crime incidents are property-related, at a rate slightly higher than the state and national averages, violent crime remains relatively rare. You only have to worry about petty theft (bike thefts, car break-ins) happening.

Neighborhoods like Old Town, Waynewood, Windsor Estates, Chapel Hill, and Wellington Heights are particularly safe. But parts of the West End see more property crime (typical for urban areas).

Considering Alexandria’s safety profile, is Virginia a good place to live? The consensus would be yes!

Alexandria feels safe enough for evening dog walks, weekend jogs along the waterfront, and sending the kids to the park with minimal anxiety.

Neighborhood Vibe, Weather, and the Social Scene

Alexandria is a delightful mix of neighborhoods. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Old Town has waterfront views and date-night vibes. It’s walkable, historic, and upscale.
• Del Ray is artsy, neighborly, and colorful. It’s the type of place where people are friendly to ‘strangers’ while walking their dogs.
• West End is more suburban with more space and a more affordable living cost. Yet, you are still well-connected to the city.
• Potomac Yard is growing fast as a modern area, popular among professionals and young families.

Generally, the social scene in Alexandria is sophisticated but not stuffy. There are farmers’ markets, brewery pop-ups, jazz in the park, and the locals’ favorite Alexandria Art Festival and Scottish Christmas Walk Parade. 

Living in Alexandria, VA, is as good for the soul as it is for the body. When it comes to the weather, expect all four seasons. 

The winter is cold but manageable, almost never dipping below 31°F in January, the coldest month. During summer, the high temperature often peaks at 91°F in July. Although it gets muggy during summer, it’s still comfortable enough for water activities.

Bottom Line: Is Alexandria for you?

If you are looking for a city that feels like a small town but works like a metro hub, Alexandria is a top contender. 

Yes, living in Alexandria, VA, is on the pricier side, but you are paying for the lifestyle, culture, and unbeatable access to one of the world’s most influential cities.

History lives here. Opportunity thrives here. If you do move, it should not surprise you when a simple stroll down King Street turns into your new favorite daily ritual.

Yes! The city grows on you that fast.

By Chris Bates