Let the numbers do the talking.
Alexandria, VA vs McLean, VA
Alexandria, VA vs McLean, VA: What the data shows
Alexandria, VA is in Alexandria, VA while McLean, VA is in McLean, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Alexandria, VA is the more affordable option at $811,700 median — $429,800 less than McLean, VA's $1,241,500. WYLT rates Alexandria, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and McLean, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
McLean, VA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Alexandria, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. McLean, VA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Alexandria, VA has Low flood risk and McLean, VA has Low flood risk.
Alexandria, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Alexandria, VA scores 78/100 (very walkable) versus McLean, VA's 51/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, McLean, VA has the higher school rating — Alexandria, VA rates 8.4/10 and McLean, VA rates 8.6/10.
| Category | Alexandria, VA | McLean, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $812K ✓ Lower price | $1.24M |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $3K |
| Median Income | $143K | $250K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 78/100 ✓ More walkable | 51/100 |
| Transit Score | 51/100 ✓ Better transit | 35/100 |
| Bike Score | 54/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 35 min ✓ Shorter commute | 45 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 | 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 familiesRemote workers with good broadbandParents prioritizing high school quality |
Bottom line
If you're a young professional or family with a school-age kid, you may prefer Alexandria for its top-rated schools, walkable neighborhoods, and access to DC by train, despite the higher cost of living. For a family with a high income or prioritizing quiet neighborhoods and good schools, McLean might be the better choice, but be prepared for the even higher price tag. Overall, both places are suitable only for those who value their specific priorities over affordability.
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