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Transit-oriented convenience defines this evolving Alexandria district where new apartments surround Braddock Road station providing direct Metro access to both DC employment and Reagan National Airport. The walkable neighborhood features a growing collection of independent businesses from coffee shops to restaurants, creating genuine pedestrian experiences unusual for typically car-dependent Northern Virginia communities. Though some blocks remain in transition with varied commercial development, the combination of walkability, transit access, and more reasonable rental rates than Old Town creates compelling value for households seeking practical urban living without corresponding premium pricing increasingly affecting Alexandria's more established historic districts.
Colonial elegance defines Old Town, where 18th-century architecture creates one of America's most distinctive historic districts along the Potomac River. Most rentals feature unexpected details from original hardwood floors to decorative fireplaces reflecting craftsmanship from earlier eras, while the compact neighborhood design enables genuinely walkable living unusual for Northern Virginia. Though commanding premium rental rates by regional standards, the combination of architectural significance, exceptional walkability, and direct Metro access to downtown Washington typically justifies the investment for those seeking sophisticated environments beyond purely contemporary aesthetics increasingly dominating newer Northern Virginia developments.
Young families priced out of Old Town Alexandria discover perfect compromise in Del Ray, where 1920s bungalows and townhomes create genuine neighborhood character without corresponding premium pricing. The community's pedestrian-friendly design centers around Mount Vernon Avenue's vibrant commercial district where locally-owned businesses still outnumber chains, creating authentic street life beyond corporate retail experiences. Unlike newer developments, these properties typically include front porches fostering neighborhood connections beyond privacy fences, while modest yards provide outdoor space impossible to find in denser districts. The neighborhood's location offers reasonable commutes to both DC employment and Pentagon/Crystal City offices via nearby Metro stations. What parents appreciate most: the community's family-focused events from Halloween parades to summer movie nights create childhood experiences increasingly rare in metropolitan environments prioritizing adult-oriented development.
*Based on base prices that don’t include fees
National study of renter’s satisfaction with their cities and states
Apartment List has released Alexandria’s results from the third annual Apartment List Renter Satisfaction Survey. This survey, which drew on responses from over 45,000 renters nationwide, provides insight on what states and cities must do to meet the needs of the country’s 111 million renters.
"Alexandria renters expressed general satisfaction with the city overall," according to Apartment List. "However, ratings varied greatly across different categories, indicating that even though renters love Alexandria, some aspects can be better."
Key Findings in Alexandria include the following:
For more information on the survey methodology and findings or to speak to one of our researchers, please contact our team at rentonomics@apartmentlist.com.
