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Alexandria

Alexandria

Located in Alexandria County

$799,580 Average Value
$419 Average Price per Sq Ft
483 Homes For Sale

18th-century trading port to modern metropolis

Alexandria’s history reaches back to before the Declaration of Independence was signed. The city was founded in 1749 as a tobacco trading port along the Potomac River, and the original downtown district was part of the nation’s capital until 1847. According to Census data, it's now one of the top 10 wealthiest cities in Virginia, with around 50% of households earning at least $100,000 or more. Alexandria's population has consistently grown, rising from 139,966 residents in 2010 to 155,230 by 2023. The city’s largest employers include the Department of Defense and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, which both have offices in town. Alexandria is also a couple miles from the Pentagon, the Defense Department's iconic headquarters. Many 18th- and 19th-century buildings in the area have been beautifully preserved, and Old Town Alexandria is the country's third-oldest historic district. Notable past residents include George Washington, Jim Morrison and "Mama" Cass Elliot. Voted one of Travel + Leisure's Best Cities in the U.S. 2023 and a Conde Nast Traveler Top 3 Best Small City in the U.S. 2023, Alexandria is a highly sought-after destination in the DMV with a distinctly cosmopolitan vibe. Locals can browse over 200 independent restaurants and boutiques along Old Town's King Street Mile, or they can explore historic museums and attend exciting events at the waterfront. Century-old brownstone townhouses, cobblestone streets, cafes and boutiques define this riverfront town, just 7 miles from the nation's capital.

The United States Patent and Trademark Office is located in Alexandria.
The United States Patent and Trademark Office is located in Alexandria.
Townhomes overlook the waterfront in Old Town.
Townhomes overlook the waterfront in Old Town.
The Torpedo Factory in Old Town offers locals a unique experience of art and history.
The Torpedo Factory in Old Town offers locals a unique experience of art and history.
Head to Old Town Alexandria, a short drive from Rosemont, to enjoy a day of shopping.
Head to Old Town Alexandria, a short drive from Rosemont, to enjoy a day of shopping.
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Century-old brownstones and modern condos sit side by side

Seven of Alexandria's neighborhoods are on the National Register of Historic Places, with buildings regulated by the Board of Architectural Review that are over a century old. Townhouses and condominiums dominate, appearing in almost every neighborhood. Old brick townhouses and modern condos intermingle, giving the city a vibrant curb appeal of different eras and styles. Neighborhoods like Taylor Run, Seminary Hill, North Ridge, Lincolnia Hills and Rosemont feel more suburban, featuring single-family homes in classic styles like Colonial Revival, Cape Cod, Craftsman, Tudor and Foursquare. Home prices vary significantly in the city, from $190,000 for a one-bedroom condo unit in areas like Landmark to $3.5 million for anything from luxury penthouses and new construction Craftsman-style mansions with 1-acre lots to ornate brownstones built in Old Town before the Civil War.

Alexandria has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, and the Virginia summers are expectedly humid. The city’s location on the Potomac River makes eastern neighborhoods like Potomac Yard and homes near the Four Mile Run Creek prone to flooding at times, though it isn’t often.

One can embrace a vibrant urban lifestyle with a townhouse in Potomac Yard.
One can embrace a vibrant urban lifestyle with a townhouse in Potomac Yard.
Colonial-style homes line the streets of Alexandria.
Colonial-style homes line the streets of Alexandria.
Tudor revivals are nestled amongst other homes in Taylor Run.
Tudor revivals are nestled amongst other homes in Taylor Run.
You'll find symmetrical Cape Cod homes in the Del Ray neighborhood.
You'll find symmetrical Cape Cod homes in the Del Ray neighborhood.
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Locals can drive or hail a water taxi

Alexandria is walkable for folks who want to explore Old Town. “Lots of the city’s neighborhoods are accessible to Old Town for dining and entertainment; we walk there from Rosemont all the time,” says Shaun Murphy, a native Alexandrian and Realtor with Compass. “You are also close to National Harbor and MGM [Casino].” Residents can drive west on King Street to reach northern Virginia points of interest in Fairfax and Loudoun County or take the Capitol Beltway east across the Potomac River to reach National Harbor and Prince George’s County, Maryland, in minutes. The George Washington Memorial Parkway runs north through the city, and locals can drive 8 miles to reach Downtown D.C., taking around 30-40 minutes, depending on rush hour traffic.

Alexandria’s train station is a stop on the Virginia Railway Express, a regional line going from Fredericksburg to Washington. Folks can take an Amtrak train from here for trips to major cities along the East Coast. The city also hosts four Metro stations along the Blue and Yellow Lines for rail access through D.C., Maryland and northern Virginia. The city’s DASH bus system has several routes running through town and is free to ride. From Old Town, locals can ride the Potomac Water Taxi, a unique passenger ferry that stops at National Harbor in Maryland, the Wharf in D.C. and Georgetown.

The city is bordered to the north by Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, a travel hub for the region offering domestic and international flights. The airport is about a 4-mile drive from Alexandria and accessible by Metro.

National Harbor is just across the water from Alexandria.
National Harbor is just across the water from Alexandria.
The DC Water Taxi is a scenic mode of transportation for Alexandria residents.
The DC Water Taxi is a scenic mode of transportation for Alexandria residents.
Amtrak runs through Alexandria and all of Virginia.
Amtrak runs through Alexandria and all of Virginia.
Alexandria residents can hop on an international flight from Reagan Airport nearby.
Alexandria residents can hop on an international flight from Reagan Airport nearby.
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A hands-on education

Alexandria City Public Schools serves over 16,000 students from over 119 countries who speak 121 languages, making it one of the most diverse school systems in the country. ACPS has 18 schools, including two middle schools, two K-8 schools, one prekindergarten school, and the well-known Alexandria City High School, whose integration efforts and 1971 state championship football team were depicted in the Disney film "Remember the Titans." Beyond the classroom, there's the Alexandria Library. Alexandrian kids also benefit from hands-on lessons, with history museums, art centers and other educational opportunities in the city.

Lyles-Crouch Elementary serves students within Alexandria.
Lyles-Crouch Elementary serves students within Alexandria.
George Washington Middle School faithfully serves the community of Parker Gray.
George Washington Middle School faithfully serves the community of Parker Gray.
Jefferson-Houston is a highly-rated school in Parker Gray.
Jefferson-Houston is a highly-rated school in Parker Gray.
Alexandria City High School prepares each student for future college and careers.
Alexandria City High School prepares each student for future college and careers.
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Outdoor recreation along the Potomac River

There are 566 acres of city-owned parkland in Alexandria, while boating enthusiasts can cruise 3 miles to D.C. or Maryland. The City of Alexandria Marina offers stunning views of the Potomac and has overnight boat slips and additional short-term docking space. Several parks are in Old Town along the river’s edge, like Oronoco Bay Park and Founders Park, which have walking trails, and Waterfront Park, which has public art installations and plenty of benches to watch the boats pass by. The 18-mile-long Mount Vernon Trail stretches from George Washington's estate alongside the scenic Potomac River to the National Mall. History buffs can explore Alexandria African American Heritage Park, which features a group of bronze tree sculptures called "Truths That Rise From the Roots Remembered." The park intends to acknowledge and commemorate African Americans' contributions to Alexandria's growth. Various smaller sculptures throughout the park memorialize historic African American neighborhoods and individuals buried at the site. Folks can ride bikes or jog beneath the massive Capitol Beltway overpass at Jones Point Park, which features trails and the southern boundary marker for D.C.’s original city border. The urban green space is also a popular spot to dance; it’s common to see breakdancers or public salsa and bachata events hosted by organizations like Sabor Latino DC.

Alexandria is rich with history and bursting with museums to explore. Locals can see a 13,000-year-old Clovis point, an 18th-century apothecary, a restored Civil War fort and a 1940s segregated library all in the same town. Along the historic streets, residents will find signs for the Wayfinding and Heritage Trails, where they can learn about the city's storied past. On the third floor of the Torpedo Factory Art Center is the Alexandria Archaeology Museum. The Alexandria Black History Museum explores the African American experience in the city. Established in 1838, the Alexandria Lyceum offers exhibitions and public programs exploring the area's history. The Fort Ward Museum offers Civil War-related exhibits, educational programs and living history activities. Alexandria was an occupied city with a vital role in the Union Army, and the museum explores that. There's also the Freedom House Museum, where traders trafficked tens of thousands of enslaved adults and children from 1828 to 1861. Visitors can take in the stories of individuals who endured the horrors of slavery. Gadsby's Tavern Museum, Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum and Carlyle House are three Colonial-era buildings within a block of each other that now function as museums.

Old Town has its own miniature Washington Monument, located by the waterfront.
Old Town has its own miniature Washington Monument, located by the waterfront.
Oronoco Bay Park is a popular spot for locals in Alexandria.
Oronoco Bay Park is a popular spot for locals in Alexandria.
Overlook the waterfront at Ford's Landing City Park in Old Town.
Overlook the waterfront at Ford's Landing City Park in Old Town.
Explore the unique art studios nestled within the historic Torpedo Factory of Old Town.
Explore the unique art studios nestled within the historic Torpedo Factory of Old Town.
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Boutiques, cafes and eateries on King Street

Old Town hosts the King Street Mile, a line of restaurants and boutiques housed in historic cobblestone buildings that stretches from the King Street Metro station to the Potomac River. Much of the street is closed to cars, so shoppers can stroll between bars and cafés or browse artisan crafts and secondhand clothing. In the Del Ray neighborhood are local diners and shops along Mount Vernon Avenue and the “Wellness District,” the nickname for the neighborhood’s collection of fitness and health businesses, like yoga studios, gyms and smoothie shops. "There is lots of amazing stuff going on around that little niche of Alexandria," says Cabell Fooshe, a local real estate agent. There’s also Potomac Yard to the north; once a bustling commercial railyard, the area now hosts a shopping center filled with big-box retailers and a Metro station.

The Carlyle and Eisenhower Avenue neighborhoods are known as the "economic engine of Alexandria," a contemporary counterpart to the historic Old Town. These areas host the National Science Foundation, the National Inventors Hall of Fame, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the Mark Center office for the Department of Defense. Meanwhile, the West End is home to Alexandria's craft beer scene, highlighted by Port City Brewing Company's headquarters. Some of the best Ethiopian eateries can be found in the West End, along with expansive green spaces like Ben Brenman Park and Fort Ward.

The Torpedo Factory in Old Town hosts events for residents to enjoy.
The Torpedo Factory in Old Town hosts events for residents to enjoy.
T.J. Stone's is a local favorite situated in Old Town.
T.J. Stone's is a local favorite situated in Old Town.
Mount Vernon Avenue in Del Ray is home to many local shops and restaurants.
Mount Vernon Avenue in Del Ray is home to many local shops and restaurants.
Take in the breathtaking views of Bren Brenman Park in Alexandria.
Take in the breathtaking views of Bren Brenman Park in Alexandria.
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Arts & culture at the Torpedo Factory Art Center

Once the U.S. Naval Torpedo Station, the Torpedo Factory now functions as an art center. Visitors can watch artists work at the most extensive collection of publicly accessible working artist studios in the country. Plenty of art and artisan works are also for sale at the center. Torpedo Factory also hosts several art classes for adults and camps for school kids to channel their creative talents. One of the city’s most popular venues is the Birchmere, which regularly hosts an array of folk, rock and country artists.

The Birchmere, a legendary music hall, is located in Alexandria.
The Birchmere, a legendary music hall, is located in Alexandria.
Browse dozens of local artists at The Torpedo Factory in Alexandria.
Browse dozens of local artists at The Torpedo Factory in Alexandria.
The Torpedo Factory is located along the waterfront in Old Town Alexandria.
The Torpedo Factory is located along the waterfront in Old Town Alexandria.
The Torpedo Factory is fun for parents and kids.
The Torpedo Factory is fun for parents and kids.
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Crime in Alexandria

City police data showed that Alexandria's overall crime rate rose about 30% from 2022 to 2023. According to the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, Alexandria’s overall crime rate is much lower than D.C.’s.

Maxwell Olarinde
Written By
Maxwell Olarinde
Caleb Jones
Photography Contributed By
Caleb Jones
Maurice Boone
Video By
Maurice Boone

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Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Parks in this Area

Alexandria Housing Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$675,000
Median Sale Price
$685,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$875,000
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$700,000
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$399,500
Median Change From 1st List Price
0%
Last 12 months Home Sales
3,937
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
4%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$419

Area Facts

Number of Homes
84,090
Number of Homes for Sale
483
Median Year Built
1970
Months of Supply
1.50
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
2,245
Above the national average
1,930
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,687
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,128
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
814
Average Studio Size Sq Ft
497
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
11,761

Open Houses

  • Saturday, Jan 31
    Open Sat 11AM - 1PM

    5904 Mount Eagle Dr Unit 201, Alexandria, VA 22303

    $494,000

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,460 Sq Ft
    • 5904 Mount Eagle Dr
    • Unit 201

    5K price improvement! You’ll love coming home to this spacious condo at MONTEBELLO, a community that truly feels like a RESORT while offering unmatched convenience just two lights from OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA. With 1460 SF, this is the LARGEST 2-BEDROOM, 2-BATH FLOOR PLAN, highlighted by a 17' x 9' ENCLOSED BALCONY (not included in the SF) which is accessible from both the living room and the

    Agent Photo
    Leslie Rodriguez
    Weichert, REALTORS
    (855) 557-8935
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  • Saturday, Jan 31
    Open Sat 11AM - 1PM

    6430 14th St, Alexandria, VA 22307

    $749,500

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,512 Sq Ft
    • 6430 14th St

    Live near “the Green” in New Alexandria. Close to the Mt. Vernon Rec Center, library, Potomac River, Mount Vernon Trail, and Dyke Marsh. Easy access to I-495, GW Parkway, and Fort Hunt Rd, plus quick trips to Old Town. Fully updated 3BR/2BA rebuilt in 2005 with a modern kitchen (new appliances), renovated baths, new flooring/lighting, open living/dining flow, and a low-maintenance yard.

    Agent Photo
    Jarriel Jordan
    The Home Team Realty Group, LLC
    (844) 247-7596
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  • Saturday, Jan 31
    Open Sat 11AM - 12:30PM

    4600 Duke St Unit 600, Alexandria, VA 22304

    $229,000

    • 1 Bed
    • 1 Bath
    • 800 Sq Ft
    • 4600 Duke St
    • Unit 600
    • New 9 days ago

    Brand-new and beautifully renovated, this 1-bedroom plus den, 1-bath residence on the 6th floor of the full-service 4600 Duke Street Condominium presents an excellent opportunity for both owner-occupants and investors. The flexible den offers ideal space for a home office or guest area, increasing functionality and long-term rental appeal. A rare in-unit washer and dryer enhances daily

    Agent Photo
    DANNY LEUNG
    Century 21 Redwood Realty
    (888) 786-3709
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Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Neighborhoods in Alexandria

Property Mix - Square Feet

Alexandria Has More Renters

Demographics

Total Population
153,370
Median Age
39
Population under 18
20.8%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
14.6%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$106,749
Significantly above the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$134,828

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
92.8%
College Graduates
64.2%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
33.3%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
79.4%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
42''
Average Winter Low Temperature
31°F
Average Summer High Temperature
89°F
Annual Snowfall
13''

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®®

43 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®®

34 / 100

Some Transit

Transit Score®®

46 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.

Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
Alexandria