Let the numbers do the talking.
Alexandria, VA vs Arlington, VA
Alexandria, VA vs Arlington, VA: What the data shows
Alexandria, VA is in Alexandria, VA while Arlington, VA is in Arlington, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Arlington, VA is the more affordable option at $749,000 median — $62,700 less than Alexandria, VA's $811,700. WYLT rates Alexandria, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Arlington, VA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Alexandria, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Arlington, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Alexandria, VA has Low flood risk and Arlington, VA has Low flood risk.
Arlington, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Alexandria, VA scores 78/100 (very walkable) versus Arlington, VA's 85/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, Arlington, VA has the higher school rating — Alexandria, VA rates 8.4/10 and Arlington, VA rates 8.5/10.
| Category | Alexandria, VA | Arlington, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $812K | $749K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $143K ✓ Higher income | $140K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 78/100 | 85/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 51/100 | 59/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 54/100 | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 35 min | 9 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.4/10 | 8.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with school-age kidsYoung professionals who walk or bikeHigh-income earners seeking a vibrant city feel | young professionalscommuters to DCsmall families |
Bottom line
For young professionals who want easy access to DC, Arlington is the better choice due to its shorter commute and higher walk score. For families with school-age kids, Alexandria might be a more suitable option despite its higher cost of living and traffic, given its top-rated schools. Ultimately, if you prioritize convenience to DC, Arlington is a better fit, but if top schools and a vibrant urban feel are more important, consider Alexandria.
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