Let the numbers do the talking.
Alexandria, VA vs Fredericksburg, VA
Alexandria, VA vs Fredericksburg, VA: What the data shows
Alexandria, VA is in Alexandria, VA while Fredericksburg, VA is in Fredericksburg, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Fredericksburg, VA is the more affordable option at $410,000 median — $401,700 less than Alexandria, VA's $811,700. WYLT rates Alexandria, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Fredericksburg, VA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Fredericksburg, VA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Alexandria, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Fredericksburg, VA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Alexandria, VA has Low flood risk and Fredericksburg, VA has Low flood risk.
Alexandria, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Alexandria, VA scores 78/100 (very walkable) versus Fredericksburg, VA's 22/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Alexandria, VA has the higher school rating — Alexandria, VA rates 8.4/10 and Fredericksburg, VA rates 8/10.
| Category | Alexandria, VA | Fredericksburg, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Settle here |
| Median Price | $812K | $410K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $143K ✓ Higher income | $103K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 78/100 ✓ More walkable | 22/100 |
| Transit Score | 51/100 ✓ Better transit | 34/100 |
| Bike Score | 54/100 ✓ More bikeable | 25/100 |
| Commute | 35 min ✓ Shorter commute | 63 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.4/10 ✓ Better schools | 8/10 |
| Best for | Families with school-age kidsYoung professionals who walk or bikeHigh-income earners seeking a vibrant city feel | familiesyoung professionalsnature enthusiasts |
Bottom line
For high-income earners looking for a vibrant city feel and are willing to accept challenging commutes and high costs, Alexandria may be the better choice. However, those prioritizing affordability, decent commutes, and a quieter suburban lifestyle should opt for Fredericksburg. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether the benefits of a high-priced, urban lifestyle outweigh the drawbacks for your individual circumstances.
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