Let the numbers do the talking.
Alexandria, VA vs Falls Church, VA
Alexandria, VA vs Falls Church, VA: What the data shows
Alexandria, VA is in Alexandria, VA while Falls Church, VA is in Falls Church, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Alexandria, VA is the more affordable option at $811,700 median — $84,700 less than Falls Church, VA's $896,400. WYLT rates Alexandria, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Falls Church, VA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Falls Church, VA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Alexandria, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Falls Church, VA has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Alexandria, VA has Low flood risk and Falls Church, VA has Low flood risk.
Alexandria, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Alexandria, VA scores 78/100 (very walkable) versus Falls Church, VA's 53/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Falls Church, VA has the higher school rating — Alexandria, VA rates 8.4/10 and Falls Church, VA rates 8.6/10.
| Category | Alexandria, VA | Falls Church, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $812K ✓ Lower price | $896K |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $143K | $176K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 78/100 ✓ More walkable | 53/100 |
| Transit Score | 51/100 ✓ Better transit | 36/100 |
| Bike Score | 54/100 ✓ More bikeable | 48/100 |
| Commute | 35 min | 15 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with school-age kidsYoung professionals who walk or bikeHigh-income earners seeking a vibrant city feel | Affluent familiesCollege graduatesDC commuters |
Bottom line
For families with school-age kids, both neighborhoods are viable options, but Falls Church edges out Alexandria due to its slightly better school ratings and shorter commute. If high walkability and a vibrant urban feel are top priorities, Alexandria might be a better fit, but at a significantly higher cost of living. Ultimately, the right choice between these two neighborhoods depends on your individual priorities and financial circumstances.
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