What Is the Cost of Living in Alexandria, VA? [2025]

Looking to make Alexandria, Virginia, your home? Well, you’re in luck, because Alexandria is a fantastic place to live, but at a more affordable price than its peers. Yes, the cost of living in Alexandria is about 44.7% above the national average, but hear us out—in exchange, you get cobblestone streets, historic charm, and immediate proximity to D.C. without the hefty prices. Basically, you get access to the nation’s capital but can also afford dinners out.

Here’s the reality: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Alexandria sits at $2,326, which sounds scary until you compare it to San Francisco or New York City. With a median household income of $124,593, most residents in Alexandria are thriving.

Alexandria offers excellent schools, a rich culture, and neighborhoods for every budget. Plus, you get to invest in a high-quality life in one of Virginia’s most charming cities. Still, it’s best to be prepared. Here, we break down the cost of apartments, utilities, groceries, and more.

Cost of Living in Alexandria

What Is the Cost of Living in Alexandria, VA?

Living in Alexandria, Virginia, comes with the perks of being in a sought-after metropolitan area near Washington, D.C., but it also means you’ll pay a premium for that prime location.

With an overall cost of living index of 144.7 compared to the national average of 100.0, residents typically spend about 44.7% more than they would in the average American city. The most significant factor driving these costs is housing, which sits at 200.7 on the index.

The good news is that not every expense category will strain your budget equally. You’ll actually save a bit on utility costs. Of course, your costs can also vary accordingly to which neighborhood you decide to live in.

What Is the Average Rent in Alexandria, VA?

Let’s break down what you can expect to pay for rent in Alexandria, Virginia. Currently, one-bedroom apartments are going for around $2,326, while two-bedroom units are about $2,749. Alexandria definitely sits on the pricey side, but remember, you’re paying for prime real estate in one of the most desirable areas near the nation’s capital.

How Much Is a One-Bedroom Apartment in Alexandria, VA?

Currently, one-bedroom apartments in Alexandria, Virginia, have a median rent of $2,027, but the neighborhood can make a significant difference in what you’ll actually pay. For example, Northeast Alexandria is the most affordable area, with rent averaging $1,968. At the opposite end, Old Town, with its waterfront proximity, is the most expensive at $3,572.

How Much Is a Two-Bedroom Apartment in Alexandria, VA?

Two-bedroom apartments in Alexandria, Virginia, have a median rent of $2,490, with significant variation across neighborhoods that can impact your monthly rent. Northeast Alexandria is the most budget-friendly option at $2,211, while Old Town North is $4,551.

How Much Is Housing in Alexandria?

Home prices in Alexandria, Virginia, reflect the area’s prime location and appeal. With a median home price of $590,300, Alexandria sits on the higher end of the U.S. market, but you’re investing in one of Virginia’s most sought-after communities. For current renters considering making the jump to homeownership, Alexandria’s housing market is a more accessible entry point than D.C.’s, yet it still offers proximity to the capital and the career opportunities it offers.

What Salary Do I Need to Live in Alexandria, VA?

When planning your budget, a helpful rule of thumb is the 30% rule: Spend no more than 30% of your gross income on rent. This guideline helps ensure you have enough left over for necessities like food, utilities, transportation, and savings.

With an overall median rent of $2,213 per month, the minimum annual salary needed to live comfortably to afford this rent would be about $88,520 per year, which breaks down to roughly $42.56 per hour based on a standard 40-hour workweek. For those navigating apartment searches, our rent calculator is a handy tool to identify apartments that fit within your budget.

To put that in perspective, the median household income in Alexandria, Virginia, is $124,593, well above the estimated livable salary required to meet the 30% rule. That’s a good sign that most households in the area can handle the median rent without stress.

For another benchmark, the MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates a living wage of $38.92 per hour per adult for a household with two working adults and two children. Compared to the rest of the U.S., Alexandria’s median household income is higher than the national average.

How Much Is Transportation in Alexandria, VA?

Transportation is one of the trickier parts of budgeting in Alexandria. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a household with two working adults and two kids spends about $12,443 per year on car-based transportation. This includes gas, car maintenance, insurance, and some public transit costs.

Alexandria is very much a driving city, and traffic can get frustrating, especially during rush hour or when commuting into D.C. Public transit is limited in coverage and frequency, so residents often rely on cars for daily errands and work. That said, certain areas are more transit-friendly, including Old Town and Eisenhower East. According to Walk Score, Alexandria has a walk score of 62, a transit score of 55, and a bike score of 62.

How Much Are Groceries in Alexandria, VA?

Food is a big part of any budget, and it can vary depending on whether you’re cooking at home or eating out. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a household with two working adults and two children in Alexandria spends about $16,523 a year on food. That’s about $1,377 per month.

According to Numbeo, a gallon of milk costs around $3.86, and a loaf of bread is $3.43. Eating out costs even more: An inexpensive restaurant meal averages about $20, while it’s $82.50 before tip at a midrange spot. Alexandria is known for local favorites like half-smokes, Chesapeake Bay crab cakes, and Brunswick stew. While treating yourself to this occasionally is part of the fun, frequent dining out can add up quickly.

How Much Is Child Care in Alexandria, VA?

Child care in Alexandria can be a major expense for families, and it’s one of the highest in the D.C. region. According to Care.com, the annual cost for one child is $34,068.

While these costs can feel overwhelming, parents can get creative to bring expenses down. Strategies include adjusting schedules to take advantage of remote work, exploring neighborhoods with a lower cost of living or shorter child care waitlists, or sharing child care with other families.

Thoughtful planning can make high-quality child care more manageable without compromising your family’s needs.

How Much Is Healthcare in Alexandria, VA?

Healthcare costs in Alexandria can vary significantly depending on household size. According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult spends $3,395 per year on healthcare, while a family of four with two working adults and two children spends roughly $10,834 annually.

How Much Are Utilities in Alexandria, VA?

In Alexandria, Virginia, monthly utility costs for a 915-square-foot apartment—including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage—average around $191.37, according to Numbeo. This is slightly below the U.S. national average of about $210.02 per month. Additionally, internet services with speeds of 60 Mbps or more typically cost $65.00 per month in Alexandria, while mobile phone plans average $52.83 per month.

Utility expenses in Alexandria can fluctuate with the seasons. Winters may lead to higher heating costs, while summers can increase cooling expenses due to the region’s humid climate. To manage these variations, it’s advisable to budget for peak months and consider energy-efficient appliances or habits to reduce consumption.

Alexandria, VA, Fitness and Entertainment

Alexandria has plenty of options for staying active and enjoying the outdoors year-round. Residents can take advantage of scenic areas such as Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront, Huntley Meadows Park, and Roosevelt Island Park, all of which offer trails for walking, jogging, and biking.

For history and culture, the Key to the City Museum Pass costs just $20 and grants access to nine historic sites. Meanwhile, the Arlington National Cemetery is where you can visit the graves of notable figures like John F. Kennedy and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. These spots offer free or low-cost ways to stay active and explore the area.

For those who prefer structured fitness, a gym membership for one adult costs an average of $72.50 per month, according to Numbeo. Many apartment complexes also offer on-site fitness centers, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional gyms. Home gym setups, even basic ones with dumbbells or resistance bands, can help reduce recurring expenses while keeping you in shape.

How Much Are Taxes in Alexandria, VA?

Taxes in Alexandria, Virginia, are relatively moderate compared to many parts of the country. Virginia has a progressive income tax, with a top marginal rate slightly below the national average, making it manageable for most residents.

The combined sales tax rate in Alexandria for 2025 is 6%, which applies to most goods and services. On a per-capita basis, state and local taxes are lower than in 17 other states, helping to keep the overall cost of living more reasonable for households in the city.

Alexandria, VA’s Job Market

As of August 2025, Alexandria, Virginia, reported an unemployment rate of 3.8%, slightly above the national average. Alexandria’s economy is supported by a mix of public and private sector employers, including the U.S. Department of Defense, Inova Health System, UPS, Goodwin House, Five Guys, and the city of Alexandria. Major employment sectors include management consulting, business and finance, office and administrative support, sales, and legal.

Find Your Next Apartment in Alexandria, VA

Alexandria’s mix of historic charm, waterfront views, and vibrant neighborhoods makes it a great place to live and work. From the bustling streets of Old Town to the more residential areas near Eisenhower Avenue, there are tons of options to suit a variety of lifestyles and budgets.

Ready to find your next apartment? Get started on your Alexandria apartment search with the Apartment List quiz. You can filter options to match your budget, preferred neighborhood, and lifestyle. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

FAQs about Cost of Living in Alexandria, VA

How expensive is an apartment in Alexandria?

On average, a one-bedroom apartment in Alexandria costs around $2,027, while a two-bedroom unit is about $2,490. Overall, it is among the more expensive cities in the U.S., but it is affordable relative to nearby Washington, D.C.

What is the cheapest rent in Alexandra?

Northeast Alexandria is the most affordable area of the city, with average rents of $1,968 for a one-bedroom and $2,211 for a two-bedroom. This neighborhood offers a mix of residential streets, convenient shopping, and easy access to public transit, making it a practical choice for those seeking lower rents.

How expensive is it to live in Alexandria?

Alexandria is on the higher end of the cost-of-living spectrum with an overall index of 144.7 compared to 104.7 for Virginia and 100 for the U.S. Housing is the biggest factor, with a housing index of 144.7 and a median home cost of $590,300. Other expenses, like groceries and transportation, also add up.

What is a good salary in Alexandria?

According to the MIT Living Wage Calculator, a single adult requires approximately $28.98 per hour to remain above the poverty threshold, totaling about $60,278 annually. For a family of four with two working adults and two children, the combined hourly wage needed is around $38.92 per adult, equating to roughly $161,907. These figures represent the minimum income necessary to cover essential costs such as food, housing, healthcare, and transportation without relying on public assistance.