Arlington and Alexandria stand as Northern Virginia’s most iconic communities, leaving many home seekers torn between their unique charms and advantages.
The choice between these two cities challenges many people. Both areas consistently rank among Northern Virginia’s best places to live. Each city blends urban amenities with suburban comfort differently.
Life in Northern Virginia gives you access to excellent job opportunities, top-rated schools, and vibrant cultural scenes. Arlington and Alexandria each deliver these benefits with their own distinct approach.
Your daily life will change based on your choice between Arlington’s modern high-rises and tech hub atmosphere or Alexandria’s historic charm and waterfront living.
Let us walk you through a comparison of these Northern Virginia gems. We’ll look at everything from housing costs and commute times to lifestyle options and growth opportunities.
This piece will give you a clear picture to help you choose the city that best matches your priorities.
Cost of Living Comparison
Let’s look at how living costs stack up between these Northern Virginia communities. The differences between them can really affect your budget. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the money factors that’ll help you decide.
Housing Market Analysis
These neighboring cities show clear differences in their housing costs. Arlington’s median home price comes in at USD 750,500. Alexandria offers a more budget-friendly option at USD 590,300. The numbers tell us that Alexandria’s housing costs are 25.5% lower than Arlington’s. This difference can save you quite a bit on monthly mortgage payments.
Property Tax Differences
Your annual housing costs will vary based on each city’s property taxes. Alexandria charges USD 1.14 per USD 100 of assessed value. Arlington’s rate sits at USD 0.99 per USD 100. The math works out interestingly. A USD 500,000 home would cost you about USD 5,700 yearly in property taxes in Alexandria. The same home in Arlington would cost USD 4,950 in taxes.
Daily Expenses Breakdown
The cost differences go beyond just housing. Here’s what the numbers show:
- Groceries: You’ll spend 2.3% less on food in Alexandria
- Transportation: Alexandria costs run 5.1% higher than Arlington
- Healthcare: Medical costs in Alexandria are 1.1% above Arlington
Alexandria comes in 11.9% cheaper overall than Arlington. This makes it a great choice if you’re watching your budget. Monthly utilities in Alexandria average USD 167.74. This gives you a good starting point to plan your monthly budget.
The rental market shows some big differences too. An 860-square-foot apartment in Alexandria averages USD 2,069. This offers better deals compared to Arlington’s higher rental prices.
The total picture shows a family of four needs USD 108,654 yearly to live comfortably in Alexandria. This number covers everything from housing and childcare to healthcare and getting around town.
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Transportation and Commute
Transportation options play a vital part in choosing the best places to live in Northen Virginia. Let’s look at how Arlington and Alexandria compare with their smooth connectivity and commuting options.
Metro Accessibility
Arlington edges ahead with 11 Metro stations spread across multiple lines. Both cities provide excellent Metro access. The Metro service works like this:
- Arlington: Orange, Silver, Blue, and Yellow lines with convenient connections to DC
- Alexandria: Blue and Yellow lines, with stations strategically placed near major residential areas
We see that train rides from Alexandria to DC take 25 minutes. Arlington’s closer location allows shorter transit times, particularly from stations like Rosslyn and Pentagon City.
Major Highway Access
The highway networks serve both cities well. Arlington sits between I-66 and I-395. Alexandria connects directly to the George Washington Memorial Parkway and Richmond Highway (Route 1).
DC-bound drivers should note that morning traffic peaks from 6-10 AM, followed by afternoon congestion between 3-7 PM. Arlington’s residents can choose multiple routes, though smart planning helps avoid the busiest traffic times.
Walkability Scores
Arlington leads with a walkability score of 69 out of 100. Alexandria follows with a score of 60. Several neighborhoods stand out with exceptional scores:
- Ballston-Virginia Square in Arlington reaches 92
- Old Town Alexandria achieves 84
People thinking about northern Virginia real estate without needing cars will appreciate Arlington’s steadfast dedication to pedestrian access. Every spot in the county sits within a 10-minute walk to a park. Alexandria adds to its appeal with numerous bike trails and pedestrian paths. Both cities serve as excellent choices for active transportation enthusiasts.
Housing Options
The real estate markets of northern Virginia show clear differences between Arlington and Alexandria’s offerings to homebuyers. These unique characteristics of each market can help you find your perfect home.
Single-Family Home Availability
Single-family homes tell an interesting story in these areas. Arlington’s builders can use more of the lot space, which leads to larger new construction homes. Alexandria’s properties often come with bigger lots but more modest houses. This creates a choice between Arlington’s spacious homes with smaller yards or Alexandria’s smaller houses with room to breathe outdoors.
The price tags reached their peaks in 2023, with Arlington’s median at USD 1,278,845 and Alexandria hitting USD 1,136,852.
Condo and Apartment Markets
The condo scene in both cities has seen some big changes lately:
- Arlington’s Condo Market:
- Prices jumped 13.6% in early 2024
- Two-bedroom units grew by 14.1%
- Rosslyn area (22209 zip code) led the price growth
- Alexandria’s Condo Market:
- Price ranges fit more budgets
- Old Town shines with historic conversions
- Del Ray and Potomac Yards showcase modern developments
New Development Projects
These communities keep evolving with exciting projects. Amazon HQ2 in National Landing propels Arlington’s growth. Crystal City buzzes with new residential and mixed-use buildings popping up everywhere.
Alexandria matches this energy with its own projects. Old Town and Del Ray welcome modern condos that blend with their historic surroundings. The development styles differ too – Alexandria favors boutique projects while Arlington leans toward larger developments.
The personality of each market stands out in interesting ways. Arlington welcomes big-name stores and fitness chains, but Alexandria keeps its charm with local shops and independent businesses. This creates neighborhoods that attract different types of homebuyers.
NOVA house hunters will find Arlington’s urban villages – Clarendon, Ballston, and Rosslyn – packed with modern living options. Meanwhile, Alexandria’s Old Town and Del Ray neighborhoods blend historic character with today’s conveniences.
Education and Schools
Education is the life-blood of life in northern Virginia. Arlington and Alexandria provide strong academic foundations for families thinking about the best places to live in Northen Virginia.
Public School Rankings
Arlington Public Schools shows consistent excellence as the #2 school district in Virginia. The district boasts a 95% graduation rate. Students achieve an average SAT score of 1,270, and 92% of graduates pursue post-secondary education.
Arlington’s Washington-Liberty High School ranks #3 in Virginia, and Yorktown High School holds the #9 position statewide. Both districts show strong academic results, though Arlington’s schools typically rank higher in state-wide assessments.
Private School Options
Several distinguished private institutions serve these communities. Here are some notable options:
- Episcopal High School: Ranked #1 among private schools in Alexandria, with 449 students in grades 9-12
- St. Stephen’s and St. Agnes School: Serves 1,214 students from nursery through grade 12
- Bishop Ireton High School: Enrolls 922 students with a strong Catholic education foundation
Living in northern Virginia becomes more attractive for families because 15% of K-12 students in Alexandria attend private schools. This creates educational choices that fit different learning styles and priorities.
Higher Education Access
The higher education opportunities in both communities stand out. Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) serves as a life-blood institution that offers more than 160 associate degree and certificate programs to students from 150 countries. The college’s multiple campuses throughout northern Virginia make higher education available to residents of both Arlington and Alexandria.
These communities’ steadfast dedication to lifelong learning sets them apart. Arlington’s educational achievements shine bright as the community ranks as the #2 most educated locality in America. 78% of residents over age 25 hold bachelor’s degrees and 43% have graduate degrees.
Families thinking about northern Virginia real estate with education as a priority will find unique advantages in both cities. Arlington’s high-performing public schools and Alexandria’s mix of public and private options create an educational environment that fits various learning needs and academic goals.
Entertainment and Culture
Life in northern Virginia gives you easy access to buzzing entertainment scenes. Arlington and Alexandria both offer unique cultural experiences that make them some of the best spots to live in NOVA.
Restaurant and Dining Scene
The culinary diversity in both cities amazes us. Arlington has grown into a global dining hotspot. You’ll find an innovative food scene with flavors ranging from Thai and Japanese to Mexican and Ethiopian cuisines. Alexandria’s dining scene stands out with its mix of waterfront restaurants and historic venues. The iconic Columbia Firehouse, built in 1863, adds to the city’s charm.
Our time in both cities has shown us these unique dining features:
- Arlington: Modern fusion spots and international cuisine
- Alexandria: Historic dining venues and waterfront establishments
- Both cities: Craft brewery and wine bar options galore
Arts and Cultural Venues
Arlington pulses with artistic energy and hosts more than 1,500 arts events annually. The city ranks just behind Washington, DC in cultural offerings within the capital region. The Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria lets you watch 150 artists work their magic across multiple galleries.
Both cities show their love for art in different ways. Alexandria’s waterfront has turned into a hub for public art installations. Arlington’s Crystal City neighborhood brings innovative pop-up exhibitions to life regularly.
Shopping Districts
Each city gives shoppers something special. Alexandria’s King Street boasts the Washington D.C. area’s largest collection of independent boutiques. Arlington shines with modern shopping spots like the Fashion Center at Pentagon City and the newly updated Ballston Quarter.
Shopping in these northern Virginia communities reflects each city’s personality. Old Town Alexandria keeps its historic charm alive through independently owned shops. Arlington mixes national brands with local stores in a more modern setting.
These entertainment and cultural perks make life better for anyone thinking about northern Virginia real estate. Alexandria’s historic district packs in over 200 independent restaurants and boutiques. Arlington’s neighborhoods each have their own entertainment clusters that give them a unique vibe.
Employment Opportunities
Northern Virginia offers excellent living options for professionals. Both Arlington and Alexandria provide great career opportunities in a variety of sectors. The employment scene in northern Virginia makes it especially attractive to professionals looking to advance their careers.
Major Employers
Government agencies and contractors are the foundations of employment in both cities. The Department of Defense guides operations with 36,000 employees in Arlington. Other major federal employers include:
- Department of Justice (5,200 employees)
- Department of State (4,500 employees)
- Arlington County School Board (3,800 employees)
- Department of Homeland Security (3,500 employees)
Alexandria shows a strong government presence too. The Department of Defense employs about 11,000 people while the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office provides approximately 7,000 jobs.
Job Market Analysis
Employment growth trends in both cities look promising. Alexandria’s job market should increase by 41% over the next decade, which beats the national average by 7.5 percentage points. The strong market reflects in household incomes. Arlington residents earn approximately USD 120,000 annually, and Alexandria households bring in over USD 100,000.
Northern Virginia’s real estate value comes from its industry diversity. More than 18% of Alexandria’s workforce operates in professional, scientific, or technical services, which is nearly triple the national average. Arlington’s technology sector stands out with major players like Deloitte (3,490 employees) and Lockheed Martin (2,668 employees) maintaining a strong presence.
Remote Work Infrastructure
Both cities have seen remarkable progress in workplace flexibility. 62% of businesses have expanded their remote work options since early 2020. This move has shaped northern Virginia’s real estate decisions as professionals now look for homes with dedicated office spaces.
The adaptation to hybrid work models makes these cities unique. Many employers now ask for 1-2 days of office presence per week, though practices vary between companies and industries. This flexibility attracts professionals who want work-life balance without losing access to major employment hubs.
Community and Lifestyle
Life in these two northern Virginia suburbs takes different shapes, and each area has its own way to help people connect and unwind. Let’s look at what makes these communities great places to live.
Parks and Recreation
Arlington’s park system stands out as the third-best in the country according to the Trust for Public Land. Living in northern Virginia is amazing because every Arlington resident can reach a park within a 10-minute walk.
Alexandria matches this green space excellence with over 900 acres of parks and various recreational spots. Both communities shine with these features:
Extensive trail networks for hiking and biking
Multiple neighborhood recreation centers
Dog parks and farmers markets
Waterfront activities along the Potomac
Community Events
Each city brings its own flavor to community gatherings. Alexandria’s events showcase its historic roots around Old Town, while Arlington leans toward modern, urban celebrations. Del Ray neighborhood in Alexandria has become a local favorite with its warm community events, lined with mom and pop shops that create a genuine, welcoming feel.
The neighborhoods of Clarendon and Ballston in Arlington bring together young professionals and families through regular community events. The area has an ever-changing, business-minded atmosphere that speaks to career-focused residents.
Social Scene
Arlington’s social world pulses with energy, especially along the Orange Line corridor. Clarendon buzzes with a vibrant city atmosphere and countless dining and entertainment spots. Young professionals love this area, though you’ll find spots that appeal to people of all ages and lifestyles.
Old Town Alexandria offers a more relaxed, historic charm. The city feels less rat-racey compared to Arlington’s busy vibe. Small boutiques and family-owned businesses create an intimate social atmosphere here.
These northern Virginia communities shine because they’ve kept their unique character while growing with the times. Arlington gravitates toward bigger name-brand spots and fitness studios, while Alexandria’s charm lives on through local boutiques and independent shops.
Future Growth Potential
Let’s look at why Arlington and Alexandria remain among the best places to live in Northern Virginia by examining their future growth potential. Our research into development trends and economic forecasts paints an exciting picture for both cities.
Development Plans
Arlington buzzes with development activity. The Rosslyn area alone has 9,800 residential units completed and 510 units under construction. The development pipeline has sections that look promising:
- 2.8 million square feet of approved office space
- 147,000 square feet of retail space
- 3,100 new residential units pending construction
- 730 hotel rooms in planning stages
Alexandria’s landscape continues to evolve, especially in Alexandria West. The City Council approved a complete development plan. This project aims to create interconnected communities with mixed-use spaces and better transit access.
Property Value Trends
Northern Virginia’s real estate market shows remarkable strength. Home values jumped nearly 5% in October 2024 compared to last year. Single-family home prices could peak by April 2025.
Market indicators point to steady growth in both cities:
- Arlington’s single-family homes should see a 0.9% increase by December 2024
- Alexandria’s residential properties look set for a 3.9% rise during the same time
Economic Forecasts
The economic outlook for both cities looks bright. Arlington earned recognition as the Mid-Sized Metro with the Best Business Climate in 2024. Virginia’s consistent top ranking among CNBC’s Top States for Business makes this achievement even more notable, as it secured the top spot in 2024.
Alexandria’s job market shows incredible promise. Forecasts point to a 41% increase over the next decade. This growth rate beats the national average by 7.5 percentage points, which suggests strong economic fundamentals.
Arlington’s financial stability stands out. The city managed to keep its Triple-AAA bond rating for over two decades. This fiscal responsibility, combined with Virginia’s competitive corporate income tax rate of 6% (below the national median of 6.8%), creates solid foundations for future growth.
Both cities are rolling out mutually beneficial development plans that balance growth with community needs. Arlington focuses on transit-oriented development while Alexandria emphasizes mixed-use communities. These approaches suggest property values will keep climbing, making both cities excellent choices for long-term investment.
Comparison Table
| Category | Arlington | Alexandria |
|---|---|---|
| Housing Costs | ||
| Median Home Price | $750,500 | $590,300 |
| Property Tax Rate (per $100) | $0.99 | $1.14 |
| Transportation | ||
| Metro Stations | 11 stations | Blue & Yellow lines only |
| Walkability Score | 69/100 | 60/100 |
| Education | ||
| School District Ranking in VA | #2 in Virginia | Not mentioned |
| Graduation Rate | 95% | Not mentioned |
| Population with Bachelor’s Degree | 78% | Not mentioned |
| Employment | ||
| Largest Employer | DoD (36,000 employees) | DoD (11,000 employees) |
| Median Household Income | $120,000 | $100,000+ |
| Community Features | ||
| Character | Modern, urban-focused | Historic, waterfront charm |
| Park Access | 10-minute walk to parks | 900+ acres of parks |
| Social Scene | Ever-changing, business-oriented | Relaxed, historic charm |
| Future Growth | ||
| Residential Development | 9,800 units completed + 510 under construction | Development plans approved for Alexandria West |
| Projected Job Growth | Not mentioned | 41% increase over next decade |
Conclusion
Arlington and Alexandria each offer unique advantages that make them great choices for different residents. Our complete analysis shows Arlington shines with its modern urban vibe, resilient public transportation, and excellent schools. Alexandria draws people in with its historic appeal, waterfront setting, and housing that won’t break the bank.
Arlington attracts young professionals who thrive in an ever-changing environment with easy access to jobs. The city’s walkable areas, Metro system coverage, and major employers nearby create the perfect setup if you have career goals in mind. People who appreciate community spirit, local businesses, and a laid-back lifestyle while keeping solid career options gravitate toward Alexandria.
Alexandria wins on the cost front, with home prices about 25% below Arlington’s. Arlington’s higher property values come with premium perks like top-rated schools and extensive parks. These northern Virginia cities both show strong potential – Alexandria expects 41% job growth in the next decade while Arlington continues to evolve through major development projects.
The best choice between these communities comes down to what matters most to you. Arlington fits those who love urban energy and career growth. Alexandria calls to people who value historic character and waterfront living. Both cities are the foundations for different ways of life, and you can’t go wrong picking either as your next Northern Virginia home.
FAQs
Q1. Which city is more affordable, Arlington or Alexandria? Alexandria is generally more affordable than Arlington. The median home price in Alexandria is about $590,300, compared to $750,500 in Arlington. Overall living costs, including groceries and daily expenses, are also lower in Alexandria.
Q2. How do the school systems compare between Arlington and Alexandria? Arlington Public Schools ranks as the #2 school district in Virginia, with a 95% graduation rate. While Alexandria also has good schools, Arlington’s educational system is generally considered superior, with higher state-wide rankings for its high schools.
Q3. Which city offers better public transportation options? Arlington has a slight edge in public transportation with 11 Metro stations across multiple lines. Alexandria is served by the Blue and Yellow lines. Both cities offer good Metro access, but Arlington’s more extensive coverage may provide more convenient commuting options.
Q4. What are the main differences in lifestyle between Arlington and Alexandria? Arlington offers a more modern, urban atmosphere with a fast-paced, business-oriented vibe, appealing to young professionals. Alexandria provides a more laid-back lifestyle with historic charm, waterfront living, and a focus on independent businesses and boutiques.
Q5. How do job opportunities compare between the two cities? Both cities offer strong job markets, particularly in government and technology sectors. Arlington hosts major employers like the Department of Defense and tech companies. Alexandria’s job market is projected to grow by 41% over the next decade, outpacing the national average. Median household incomes are high in both cities, with Arlington slightly higher at around $120,000 compared to Alexandria’s $100,000+.