Alexandria is a beautiful independent city on the Potomac Riverlocated adjacent to Washington D.C.. As the site of one of the first English colonies on the continent, to say that Alexandria has a rich history is an understatement. Independence, George Washington included Alexandria in what would become the District of Columbia. Now Alexandria isa beautiful luxury city inhabited by many government officialsDue to its proximity to D.C., it is known for the historic buildings in its Old Town and the wonderful shops along King Street.
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Alexandria, VA Population and Demographics
Alexandria is a reasonably sized city with a population of 160,530 and is experiencing a growth rate of 13.9%. Alexandria also has a significant foreign population: 27.7% of the population. As a city where many young people work in government jobs, it naturally has a very low average age of 36.5 years. Alexandria is also very diverse, with a white population making up 52% of the population, the black community making up 21%, and the Hispanic population being 17% of the population. Its diverse community likely also stems from the fact that Alexandria is so close to Washington, DC, where the Department of Defense is one of the largest employers.
Wondering if Alexandria VA is a safe place to live?You'll be happy to know that the crime rate in Alexandria, VA is 35% lower than the national average, and violent crimes are 58% lower.
Alexandria, VA Cost of living
Alexandria is a beautiful city in a convenient location, but there are some downsides to that. Living in Alexandria can be quite expensive, with the cost of living beingabout 44% more expensive than the national average, with housing costs being a large contributing factor.The median home value in Alexandria is $561,800, and housing costs in Alexandria are 133% more expensive than the US average.If buying a house wholesale seems too expensive for you, renting is a much more economical option, with theAverage rent in Alexandria is $1,987 per month.
Housing isn't the only thing less affordable about Alexandria, though certainly not to the same extent. Those thinking of moving to Alexandria should know that utilities, food and transportation typically cost 5-15% more than the national average.
Alexandria, VA Schools
There are lots and lots of great schools in Alexandria! This city is served by the Fairfax County and Alexandria City School Districts, which offer excellent public schools from kindergarten through twelfth grade.Primaria WaynewoodyTwain High Schoolare two excellent options for getting your child into eighth grade. And you can't talk about the best schools in Alexandria without mentioning the acclaimedThomas Jefferson High for Science and Technology,which is consistently ranked on lists of the best high schools in the United States.!
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Universities in Alexandria are just as good as public schools! While you live in Alexandria, you'll be less than ten miles from major universities likeuniversity of georgetown, which has alumni like Antonin Scalia and Ivanka Trump,George Washington University, it's himamerican university, all widely recognized as some of the best universities in the union.
Alexandria, VA climate and weather
If you're planning to move to Alexandria, know that summers here are hot and humid and winters are damp and cold, so make sure you pack accordingly! However, Alexandria has a more balanced climate compared to other East Coast cities.In summer, you can expect highs of 99 degrees Fahrenheit, and in winter, lows of around 27 degrees Fahrenheit.Alexandria also receives slightly more rainfall compared to the national average, at 43 to 38 inches, but only receives half the amount of snow, at 14 to 28 inches. If you've lived in any of the big cities on the East Coast, you'll find that Alexandria's vibe is pleasant and family-friendly.
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Best Neighborhoods in Alexandria, VA
Moving to Alexandria,it's important to make sure you're moving into a community you'll connect with. Some Alexandria neighborhoods are better for families, others for millennials or couples.
Do you like townhouses, diversity and art festivals? a neighborhood likedel raycould be just the place for you! Comprised mostly of small houses, Del Ray hosts the Art on the Avenue Festival, which regularly brings together up to 50,000 people for art, food and fun. Del Ray is the perfect community to settle in if you love a down to earth neighborhood.
Del Ray is just one of Alexandria's many unique and charming neighborhoods. See an additional sample of Alexandria communities below:
- west end
- Rosemont
- Ancient city
- north ridge
Thinking about living in Alexandria and want to see real estate? To checkhomes in Alexandria, VA hereand find the right community for you!
Alexandria, VA Jobs
Ready to make a living in Alexandria, VA? Job seekers will be pleased to know thatwages rose and job growth was steady. Hethe average hourly rate for Alexandria is $18.81, with nurses, dental assistants and administrative assistants generally being the highest paying positions in the city.
However, if you want the best paying job in Alexandria, then you should look for salaried government jobs and with Alexandria's excellent position, it won't be difficult to get them. The Department of Defense is one of the largest employers in Alexandria, and positions such as intelligence analysts can earn $76,000 a year, and more if promoted.
If you want to get a general idea of the Alexandria state job market, you can check outjobs in Alexandria, VA here.
Attractions and things to do in Alexandria, VA
Alexandria is full of fun things to do! On the one hand, there are many great stores in Alexandria, VA, with highly rated malls and malls likecommon alexandriait's himPotomac Garden Center. But there are also many attractions in Alexandria! Take a look at some below:
Big Waves Water Park
A sprawling 20-acre water park with all kinds of facilities and attractions, this place is sure to be a blast for you and your kids! Great Waves is a huge attraction for kids here in Alexandria!
4001 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA 22304, (703) 960-0767
Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Interested in medicine? What about Civil War-era medicine? With an extensive collection of historic medicines, journals, documents and more, this amazing Alexandria museum will tell you everything you need to know about the strange world of Civil War medicine.
105-107 S Fairfax St, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703) 746-3852
Restaurants and places to eat in Alexandria, VA
Not to be outdone by its exciting attractions, Alexandria also has plenty of great places to eat. Take a look at some of the best restaurants in Alexandria, VA below!
Refugio Restaurant
Founded in 1983, this authentic French restaurant has been serving Alexandria for nearly forty years. With real French dishes made by real French cooks, this place is a no-brainer for anyone who can't get enough of old country cuisine!
127 N Washington St, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703) 548-4661
old cosmopolitan house
A European restaurant offering all kinds of great German dishes, Old House Cosmopolitan is a great choice if you want authentic German dishes here in Alexandria.
1024 Cameron St, Alexandria, VA 22314, (703) 717-9361
Things to do in Alexandria, VA
- Finding a government job
- Choose from a variety of great neighborhoods
- Choose a community that's right for you
- See some of Alexandria's amazing attractions.
- Make sure you pack well for the weather.
Ready to take the final step and start moving to Alexandria? Get in touch with ourAlexandria Team of Moving Specialistsand start your journey to your new home today!
FAQs
Is Alexandria a good place to move to? ›
Ideally located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Alexandria is nationally recognized as one of the best places to live and do business on the east coast. Learn how we can help you start or relocate your business in Alexandria, and access resources for existing businesses and commuters.
Is it nice to live in Alexandria VA? ›Part of the Washington, DC metro, historic Alexandria has been ranked among the best small cities to live in America and best places for veterans.
What is it like living in Alexandria? ›Alexandria is a city in Virginia with a population of 158,185. Alexandria is in Alexandria City County and is one of the best places to live in Virginia. Living in Alexandria offers residents an urban feel and most residents rent their homes. In Alexandria there are a lot of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks.
Is it better to live in Alexandria or Arlington? ›While Alexandria is a longer commute, it's still a fairly reasonable and simple commute regardless of where you're going. Arlington might have a better commute to DC, but each option still falls beneath the average American commute time of 27 minutes - so you can't go wrong! "East Arlington has the most metro access.
How many homeless people are in Alexandria? ›(KALB) - There are anywhere between 85 to 100 homeless people in Alexandria on any given day, and, unfortunately, that number is growing.
Is it cheaper to live in Alexandria or DC? ›Average Rent in Alexandria VA
Pricey, though still less expensive than DC where corresponding rents are 30-40% higher.
Is Alexandria, VA a Good Place to Live? Resting alongside the Potomac River, Alexandria, VA, offers the perfect mix of historical landmarks, vibrant arts, waterfront dining, and diverse neighborhoods.
What is a good salary in Alexandria VA? ›Most salaries in Alexandria range between $48,347 (25th percentile) to $82,058 (75th percentile) annually. Of course, salaries will vary depending on your occupation, experience, and many other factors.
What are winters like in Alexandria Virginia? ›Temperatures typically remain in the low 20s at night and the mid to upper 30s in the daytime during official winter months, with January being the coldest. The comfortable temperature and ample snowfall make Alexandria popular with outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking moderate powder conditions for winter fun.
Is Alexandria expensive to live? ›The cost of living in Alexandria, VA is 40% higher than the state average and 43% higher than the national average. Alexandria, VA housing is 116% more expensive than the U.S average, while utilities are about 3% less pricey.
Is it better to live in Arlington or DC? ›
The DC crime rate is significantly higher than the Arlington crime rate. According to the FBI, the overall crime rate in DC is 4,389 crimes per 100,000 people. This is 87.1% higher than the national average. Arlington is a safer place to live than DC.
Is Alexandria prone to flooding? ›Overall, Alexandria has a moderate risk of flooding over the next 30 years, which means flooding is likely to impact day-to-day life within the community. This is based on the level of risk the properties face rather than the proportion of properties with risk.
Is Alexandria VA a walkable city? ›Alexandria has an average Walk Score of 60. That makes it “somewhat walkable”, but that's still a real plus because walkable neighborhoods come with many advantages.
Is Alexandria a walkable city? ›Known for its walkable lifestyle, Alexandria is a city best experienced on foot. Get inspired with routes for your next amble along Old Town's red brick sidewalks and beyond, from an architecture-themed excursion to a waterside stroll to a Del Ray mural tour and more.
Does Alexandria VA have a homeless problem? ›Alexandria's homeless increased to 207 people, a 5% increase over 2019, according to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments' annual report on homelessness in the region.
What city has the highest concentration of homeless? ›Among major cities, Los Angeles (54,469 individuals) and New York City (32,308) have the largest unhoused populations, collectively accounting for nearly one-fifth of the country's total afflicted.
Is Alexandria a wealthy city? ›ALEXANDRIA, VA — Alexandria residents overall can be considered among the wealthiest among Virginia's localities, according to a new study from SmartAsset.
Where is the cheapest place to live in Alexandria VA? ›- #1: Belle Haven. Median home price: $308,500. ...
- #2: Huntington. Median home price: $475,000. ...
- #3: Newington. Median home price: $543,750. ...
- #4: Franconia. Median home price: $543,750. ...
- #5: Lincolnia. Median home price: $544,000. ...
- #6: Annandale. ...
- #7: Groveton. ...
- #9: Rose Hill.
With a low crime rate, great quality of healthcare, and a strong economy, it is no surprise that Virginia is one of the best places to live. Surrounded by history and living in the heart of where America began is pretty cool.
Can you live in Alexandria without a car? ›Why? Because you can find just about everything you need in Alexandria, including highly regarded restaurants, great bars, unique boutiques as well as national chain stores. And many of Alexandria's neighborhoods also enjoy easy access to public transportation. These things make Alexandria a very walkable city.
What is the tax rate in Alexandria VA? ›
What is the sales tax rate in Alexandria, Virginia? The minimum combined 2023 sales tax rate for Alexandria, Virginia is 6%. This is the total of state, county and city sales tax rates. The Virginia sales tax rate is currently 4.3%.
What is the income tax in Alexandria VA? ›The state of Virginia has a progressive income tax, with rates ranging from 2% to a top rate of 5.75%.
What is the average utility cost in Alexandria VA? ›The average residential electricity rate in Alexandria, VA is 15 ¢/kWh, which is 3% higher than the average electricity rate in Virginia of 14.11 ¢/kWh. The average residential electricity rate in Alexandria, VA is 36% lower than the national average rate of 23 ¢/kWh.
What is the coldest month in Alexandria VA? ›Average Temperature in Alexandria
The cold season lasts for 3.1 months, from December 1 to March 4, with an average daily high temperature below 52°F. The coldest month of the year in Alexandria is January, with an average low of 30°F and high of 44°F.
The hottest month of the year in Alexandria is August, with an average high of 86°F and low of 76°F. The cool season lasts for 3.2 months, from December 11 to March 18, with an average daily high temperature below 68°F.
What type of climate is Alexandria? ›Alexandria has a hot desert climate (Köppen climate classification: BWh), bordering on a hot steppe climate (Köppen climate classification: BSh). Like the rest of Egypt's northern coast, the prevailing north wind, blowing across the Mediterranean, gives the city a less severe climate than the desert hinterland.
Is Alexandria cheaper than Arlington? ›Alexandria was more suburban and less hip than most of Arlington but cheaper. If you can afford it parts of North Arlington are great for 20-somethings.
Is Alexandria a beautiful city? ›It's a stunning city full of amazing things to do based on the North coast of Egypt. It felt so good to breathe in the fresh air and you could see the Mediterranean sea for miles. Thousands of years ago, Alexandria was a famous and powerful city.
How much are utilities in VA? ›| Utility | Average Virginia Bill |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $132 |
| Gas | $105 |
| Cable & Internet | $119 |
| Water | $36 |
- Manhattan, New York. Overall cost of living: 127.7% above U.S. average. ...
- Honolulu, Hawaii. Overall cost of living: 84% above U.S. average. ...
- San Francisco, California. ...
- Brooklyn, New York. ...
- Washington, D.C. ...
- Orange County, California. ...
- Los Angeles, California. ...
- Seattle, Washington.
What is the cost of living for a single person in Alexandria VA? ›
A single person estimated monthly costs are 1,516.0$ without rent. Alexandria is 0.4% less expensive than New York (without rent).
What is the best part of Arlington to live in? ›- Aurora Highlands.
- Ballston-Virginia Square.
- Bluemont.
- Clarendon-Courthouse.
- Radnor-Ft Myer Heights.
Arlington checks most of the boxes for the majority of homebuyers. There are great schools, a variety of home styles, price points for every budget, and lots of parks and green space. Arlington also offers a location that is easily commutable to Washington DC and Tyson's Corner where much of the local jobs are located.
Is moving to DC worth it? ›Washington D.C. is a great city for millennials. Washington D.C. is considered the third best city for millennials in the country. Between ample job opportunities and plethora of free activities and events, it's not hard to see why so many millennials are moving to Washington D.C.
Is Alexandria VA expensive to live? ›The cost of living in Alexandria, VA is 40% higher than the state average and 43% higher than the national average. Alexandria, VA housing is 116% more expensive than the U.S average, while utilities are about 3% less pricey.
How much do you need to make to live in Alexandria? ›| 1 ADULT | ||
|---|---|---|
| 0 Children | 1 Child | |
| Required annual income after taxes | $39,067 | $77,585 |
| Annual taxes | $7,576 | $16,493 |
| Required annual income before taxes | $46,644 | $94,078 |
Where Alexandria is laid-back and less crowded, Cairo is bustling and full of traffic. However, both Alexandria and Cairo will show you different sides of modern Egyptian life. Visit these two amazing cities during your Egypt Tour is the best choice for every travel lover.
Why is Alexandria a good place to live? ›Is Alexandria, VA a Good Place to Live? Resting alongside the Potomac River, Alexandria, VA, offers the perfect mix of historical landmarks, vibrant arts, waterfront dining, and diverse neighborhoods.
How much is electricity per month in Alexandria VA? ›In Alexandria, VA, the average monthly electric bill for residential customers is $202/month, which is calculated by multiplying the average monthly consumption by the average electric rate: 1,394 kWh * 15 ¢/kWh.
How much are taxes in Alexandria VA? ›The minimum combined 2023 sales tax rate for Alexandria, Virginia is 6%. This is the total of state, county and city sales tax rates.
How much is property tax in Alexandria VA? ›
Alexandria's real estate tax rate remains at $1.11 per $100 of assessed value.
Why is Alexandria so popular? ›Alexandria was best known for the Lighthouse of Alexandria (Pharos), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; its Great Library, the largest in the ancient world; and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.
Does Alexandria VA have good public transportation? ›Alexandria boasts easy access to major interstate highways and is served by four Metrorail stations, Amtrak, water taxi service and the free King Street Trolley running from Alexandria City Hall/Market Square to the King St – Old Town Metrorail station. Getting to and around Alexandria is easy!
How often does it snow in Alexandria Virginia? ›The national average for snowfall annually is 28 inches, while Alexandria generally sees about 14 inches per year. Just over five inches of this snowfall occurs in the month of January, with smaller batches over the course of four or five months.