Are you considering a move to Alexandria VA? With its close proximity to Washington DC and its comparatively low housing costs in relation to DC, Alexandria is a sensible option for many homebuyers. Commuting is fairly simple from just about any neighborhood thanks to an extensive public transportation system, which opens up options for those with out-of-town jobs.
It helps to narrow down housing options when you compare and contrast the many neighborhoods comprising the Alexandria metro area. Figure out what you want and need form your neighborhood and how many houses you can afford. This neighborhood guide should help you figure out which options are the best for your budget, family, and social needs.
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Old Town Alexandria is the third oldest neighborhood in the nation. It is one of the most extensive and best preserved historic districts in the country.
Old town’s population is 7,820 people per square mile versus 10,266 per square mile in Alexandria. Being more sparsely populated than other parts of the city, Old Town Alexandria is a very sought-after area to live.
Building codes are very stringent in Old Alexandria. Building plans for the city are agreed upon by a board and information about development and plans are available here.
Old Town Alexandria is packed with Colonial architecture, like Georgian style homes built before the Revolutionary War. Other architectural masterpieces include beautiful homes built in Greek Revival style mid-1800’s, Federal Style homes in the 1790’s and hybrid Federalist and Victorian homes built in the 1800’s and early 1900’s. Also in Old Town Alexandria is the George Washington National Masonic Memorial, which was inspired by palatial and governmental structures along the Mediterranean corniche in Alexandria, Egypt.
Builders of the homes, churches and government buildings made sensible use of local resources, like hardwoods and stone. They forged bricks and used as few imported products as possible. During the construction of many of these Colonial buildings, high taxes were placed on imported materials. Settlers did their best to keep costs low while creating appropriate accommodations for their needs.
Alexandria is a short 10-minute drive to Washington DC. It is very easy to traverse from one city to the next via public transportation, like the light rail, city bus system, ride shares, and taxis. There is even a bike trail that runs next to the Potomac River all the way into Washington DC and many health-conscious people ride bicycles to work.
Stevenson Park is wonderful for kids who want to play, as is Taney Avenue Park and several others placed every few blocks throughout Old Alexandria. There are community spots in most parks for playing sports, grills for picnickers and tables where families can rest in beautiful surroundings.
Next to the Potomac River are several different parks where residents can always find something for everyone. Dog lovers will love the dog parks and riverfront hangouts. There is a market square where tourists can relax and people watch. At the Carlyle House Historic Park there is an 18th-century manor, complete with gardens full of beautiful flowers and a gazebo. Other riverfront parks have lighthouses, shops, pavilions and large green areas where markets and events are held. Old Alexandria’s parks are famous.
The weather in Old Town Alexandria is wet in comparison to many places and gets 40 inches of rain per year. In winter, the average temperature is 38 degrees and the while summertime highs are in the upper 80’s.
Art, history buffs, and literature lovers abound in Old Town Alexandria. Enjoy living in one of the most historical areas of America. The Lyceum: Alexandria’s History Museum likes to keep their exhibits fresh with frequent rotation of their displays. Other interesting places to visit include the Alexandria Apothecary Museum, the Black History Museum, Alexandria Archaeology Museum, and many others.
Alexandria has dozens of celebrations and events annually. Local events websites can help locals stay up to date on events. Do not miss out on the week of celebrations centered on George Washington, the forefather of America. Restaurant Week, Annual Pinewood Derbies, Four Mile Run Farmers and Artisans Market, Colonial Markets and Fairs, Harvest Festivals, Summer Festivals, Revolutionary War reenactments, Historical Readings over gin at Colonial Taverns, and many other events. There is so much to do in Old Town Alexandria that new residents can easily stay busy every weekend all year round.
Old Alexandria’s children are privileged enough to be in proximity to several private schools. Over 60 percent of children living in Old Alexandria attend private schools. The poverty levels in this area are extremely low compared to other areas of the city, so public schools are also well funded. Kids can get an excellent public-school education here.
Old Town Alexandria has numerous classy restaurants that are ideal for an intimate affair. The Majestic is great for an after-work cocktail and fine dining. Volas Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge is a popular destination for locals enjoying the water, boating, or park activities. Vaso’s Mediterranean Bistro serves Greek and Mediterranean fare and is perfect for lunch, date or dessert. Be sure to make reservations in advance if dining in Old Alexandria.
Founders Park and Montgomery Park are Old Town Alexandria’s premier dog parks. Montgomery Park has many activities for families while they walk their dog. Founders Parks has weekend volleyball games and other sports events every weekend throughout summer.
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At one time, the historic district of Alexandria was segregated. Parker-Gray was one of the only neighborhoods where black people could buy property with an historical value. During the 1970’s, the Historical Preservation Society fought for a designation in order to gentrify the 40-block neighborhood. Though the process has been contentious, homes in the neighborhood have been rehabilitated and prices have driven out many former Parker-Gray families. The refreshed neighborhood attracts young upper-middle-class families now.
Parker-Gray is a very small, exclusive community with an area of 0.175 square miles and a population of about 3,250 residents. The neighborhood will likely remain the same size for generations to come, and building new homes and businesses comes with many restrictions. Development will remain focused on improving what is already there rather than building new structures.
Parker-Gray homes are slightly less luxurious than those in Old Town, though they are still very nice. This is a popular neighborhood, and the real estate market moves quickly. Home values have been driven up by development and restoration efforts in the area since 1975. Efforts paid off, and now this is one of the nicest neighborhoods in Alexandria. Shop for homes in Parker-Gray if you are looking for something from the Federalist or Victorian eras.
The city bus system covers Parker-Gray and offers rides throughout Alexandria. Getting to Washington DC is very easy and is a quick 10-minute ride. Other people might prefer ride share services or taxis, or they can take a bus to the metro station. Parker-Gray is conveniently located and very accessible by public transportation.
Wintertime weather in the Alexandria metro area is cold and rainy in the winter and very warm in the summer. The region gets an average of 40 inches of rain annually, and summer thunderstorms are exciting to watch. Winter storms can be messy but there is plenty of snow for kids to play in. Summertime high temperatures are in the upper 80s while wintertime lows can get down to 8 degrees. It is typical New England weather.
The Braddock Interim Open Space is a good place for families with children to go have a good time. There is Ping Pong, a kids’ climbing wall, and Bocce. Helen Miller-Bernard Hunter Park is another family-friendly venue where kids can play basketball with their parents or play on the playground.
BAR Parker-Gray District Board of Architectural Review have monthly meetings in the neighborhood. Other events include historical lectures and regular writer’s workshops with local authors and writers.
The Parker-Gray School is a part of African American history and was once a segregated school. It was built in 1965. It was desegregated shortly thereafter. There is a captivating exhibit at the African American Historical Museum in Old Town Alexandria.
There are many bars and restaurants to enjoy a cold one over a delicious meal, like Captain Gregory’s and Mackie’s Bar and Grill. Bastille restaurant is a nod to France and serves ethnic European fare. Get a piping hot pizza after a long day playing sports at the park when visiting Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap.
Parker-Gray does not have its own dog park, but residents are encouraged to take their pets to the Old Town Alexandria dog parks. There are two located nearby. This neighborhood is still officially part of Old Town and people who live here are welcomed and greeted as natives in the neighboring dog parks.
Del Ray’s population is approximately 23,200 people. The neighborhood spans 1.82 square miles and is a busy area of the Alexandria metro area. Older than nearly any other city in America, there are homes and business buildings that predate the Revolutionary War. Home buyers should be aware their home selection could include structures on the historic registry.
Del Ray is a nice middle-class neighborhood and the poverty level is relatively low in comparison to many other cities in the nation. Housing prices are far higher than the state average, though there are still low-income housing options available to those who need them.
Del Ray’s older homes echo of the past, and there are homes available in Victorian, Federalist, Greek Revival and Colonial styles. The historic homes selection is extensive and prices are lower here than in several other neighborhoods. There are also newer homes available with modern appeal.
Alexandria is a political city. Everyone networks and everyone knows politicians. This is a city that is very educated, well-paid, and powerful. People in this area stay active socially, if not physically. The healthy living trend is, however, expanding faster than citizens’ waistlines.
Del Ray is located close to the Waterfront Park along the Potomac River where there are multiple sports fields, green belts where events are held, playgrounds and the waterfront. Additionally, there are numerous small neighborhood parks with playgrounds where children can play. This is a family-friendly area.
Art on the Avenue is an art crawl even where there are festivities centered around art. Multiple galleries show art and businesses and vendors show up to participate as well. There are many events to keep kids busy and adults begging for more.
There is an Art on the Avenue Pie Baking Contest with several age divisions. The Del Ray Famer’s Market is a fun place to buy fresh produce and artisan goods. There are holiday events all year round and other activities, like parades, readings, lectures, free workshops, pinewood derbies, symphonies, and historical reenactments. There are many fun and enlightening activities for the whole family in Del Ray.
Toddlers can find a daytime haven at the Creative Play School. Elementary school kids can attend the parent’s choice of Brethren Christian Day School or the Alexandria Public Schools. Parents may also opt out of their district and into another with special permission from the administration.
Del Ray is home to several busy restaurants. Rosemarino d’Italia serves ethnic Italian cuisine that is some of the highest rated around and is a hidden gem. Del Ray Café cooks delicious French fare and Live Oak Restaurant is always there for a little Southern comfort. For casual dining, try Al’s Steak House, South China or the Junction Bakery and Bistro.
Simpson Stadium Dog Park is the only park that belongs to the Del Ray neighborhood. It stays busy and is a large park packed with dogs who love to play. The park’s walking surfaces are 85 percent gravel to make cleaning up after dogs easier.
The Swann and Dangerfield families founded their plantations on what is today Potomac Yard. It was the stomping ground of many of our forefathers, and the land is rich with history. It soon became a transportation hub thanks to its status as a connecting port for Alexandria and Chesapeake and Ohio Canal via the Potomac Aqueduct Bridge. It was abandoned until the turn of the century. Potomac Yard was opened in 1905 and became one of the largest and busiest railyards in the nation. It was repurposed as a green space and residential neighborhood in the 1990’s. Today, the area is completely resettled into family housing and commercial buildings.
Potomac Yard has a very tight residential market and it is not uncommon to see fewer than two dozen homes for sale at any given time. To view the plans for building new housing and commercial properties in Potomac Greens, go here to the City’s website.
This area is pristine, and there are many fabulously maintained historic properties here. Whether looking for an 1850’s era townhome in a Victorian style, a brand-new modern home or a Colonial stand-alone home, Potomac Greens has it. While real estate in this area sells for a premium, living here is worth it. It comes with prestige, luxury and the finer things in life.
The City of Alexandria is planning a Metrorail station for the Potomac yard to make it even more efficient to go to downtown Washington DC.
Dangerfield Island is replete with a marina, luxury housing, and mountainous shoreline. Enjoy the lovely water, but do not let dogs off the leash.
Potomac Yard is a private, high-end housing market with shoreline access and a marina for boaters. This is an urban fisherman’s dream. Have fun and try to get in touch with nature along the water. If indoor events sound more appealing, visit local performing arts theaters, the cinema, galleries, dinner parties, bars and clubs, go shopping or visit any of the dozens of museums dotting the city. Potomac Greens borders Washington DC, so it is easy to drive to DC for entertainment.
There are annual 5K runs in the Potomac Yard and other outdoor runs often take place there. PetsMart has frequent adoption events in the northern part of the neighborhood. The Historical Society has meetings about the future of buildings and land in Potomac Yard and there is a city board that also has regular meetings. There are numerous groups and committees addressing amalgams of issues. Feel free to get involved.
All children go to schools west of Potomac Yard in the Alexandria metro area. There are several private schools nearby, like the Commonwealth Academy, Cora Kelly School for Math, Science and Technology, Childspace Learning Center and the Mount Vernon Community School. Students can also attend the George Washington Middle School or other public schools.
Potomac Yard has no restaurants. However, across the Interstate 1, there are many restaurants within a mile of home. Haute Dog & Fries serves boaters their version of high-class fast food. Other casual dining includes Taste of Eurasia and Los Tios Grill. Get a nice meal with a special date at Northside 10 or Souvlaki Bar.
Dogs are not allowed off the leash at the Potomac Yard because of the danger of being hit by motorists. Keep dogs on the leash and be sure to clean up after them at Potomac Park.
Taylor Run was built in the mid-1900’s to meet the demand for affordable residential housing. This area was once a farming community and forested land but is now a middle-class residential suburb of Alexandria. Many people who live here work in Washington DC and commute back and forth daily.
Taylor Run has about 5,465 residents spanning 2168 households. It has a middle to high income compared to the state average. The highest earning households are in the northernmost and southernmost areas of the neighborhood. Young families gravitate towards the southern area of Taylor Run.
Taylor Run is relatively new in comparison the rest of Alexandria. While there are a few Colonial era relics, nearly all homes were built after the 1950’s. Most of the homes are million-dollar properties and the neighborhood is well-maintained.
Chinquapin Park Recreation Center is in the northern section of Taylor Run. There is a football field west of the park where high schoolers play. Angel Park in the south-eastern region of the neighborhood is a very popular destination for families in the area.
Families can join local 4H, sports clubs, and scout troops and parents can get involved with the PTA and dozens of different committees and boards. There is always a school carnival, neighborhood or city parade, tailgate party or event happening.
Farmers Markets are very popular in Alexandria and residents of Taylor Run are encouraged to attend. For the most part, citizens of this neighborhood participate in citywide events.
Nearly all children in Taylor Run attend Alexandria Public Schools, which are rated highly by most parents in the neighborhood.
Philadelphia Cheesesteak Factory, Noodles and Company, Panera Bread, Sinbad Mediterranean Food & Bakery and a handful of other restaurants are located along Interstate 495.
Fort Williams Park to the southwest is the nearest dog park to the Taylor Park neighborhood. People are welcome to walk their dogs in local parks, but they must be leashed.
Rosemont is a relatively new suburb of Alexandria in comparison to the Old Town. Most homes were built between 1935 and 1965. Several politicians and power players have lived or currently live in this neighborhood.
Most of the homes in Rosemont were built in the 1930’s and 1940’s and is older than neighborhoods that are further south and west. This is a desirable neighborhood for upper-middle-class families. Many of the homes here are known for having large, luxurious backyards and there are many swimming pools in this neighborhood.
Architecture is typical of the times, and there are numerous split level and ranch style homes standing next to throwback styles. There is a lot of brick and hardwood used in the homes, though not much stone is found in the neighborhood.
Nearly 40 percent of commuters ride the train to work. The train system in Alexandria and Washington DC is very good and highly utilized. The city bus system also stays busy, though most people drive to and from work.
Beach Park is a good place to take kids and pets to play. Most families play in their backyards, though. The Ivy Hill Cemetery is in the southwest area of Rosemont and is a peaceful, quiet place to reflect. There are no dog parks in Rosemont.
The Capital One Arena serves Rosemont with top-notch entertainment. Others prefer live theatre, cinema, the opera, ballet, art galleries or the symphony. There is plenty to do in the area for patrons of the arts and historians.
This area’s residential neighborhood is mostly new since the 1960’s. Certainly, there are a few Colonial-era homes from settlers of the New World, but the opportunity to purchase homes like that is almost unheard of.
The housing is very tight in Landmark. Housing costs are lower but there is far more demand than there is housing. There are new apartments and townhomes in the works, but they sell very quickly. This is an active market even though the local mall closed recently. New developments are in the works.
The architecture is typical of 1960’s era homes with bi-level and trilevel homes mixed in with townhomes and ranch-style houses. Prices of housing is a little lower than in other areas of the Alexandria metro that are closer to the Potomac River. Landmark is conveniently located between major interstates 395 and 495.
Bren Mar Park is a heavily wooded natural space located near Interstate 395 in Landmark. There are trails for hiking, paved walkways, and playgrounds at Stevenson Park, Tarleton park, Armistead Booth Park, All Veterans Park, Joseph Hensley Park, William Ramsay Field, Holmes Run Scenic Easement, Ewald Park and the Holmes Run Community Gardens, all of which are in Landmark or very close by.
The local elementary schools host frequent Family Splash Nights. There are apothecary tours, poetry readings, writer’s workshops and historical lectures every month.
Ben Brenman Park has a dog park and sports field in addition to a scenic pond. Duke Street Dog Park is another fun place for pups to interact and play.
There is a continuous effort to improve and maintain the Seminary Hill neighborhood. The area is clean and very green. It is very much a bedroom community.
Seminary Hill is very much an average American town. It is middle class with areas of affordable housing. Homes are aging and were built in the mid to late 1900’s. This is a somewhat young, family centered, affordable neighborhood where getting started is easiest.
Brookvalley Park has Trails, garden plots and ancient trees. Patrick Hendry Filed has outdoor trails and areas for play. Cameron Run Regional Park offers mini-golf, waterpark and a baseball batting cage. There are nearly a dozen parks and nature easements for city dwellers to enjoy.
Many locals enjoy the Winkler Botanical Preserve where they can visit a mountain lodge, nature hikes, and waterfalls. The Cameron Run Regional Park also offers plenty of fun activities for the entire family. Other attractions include historical Mount Vernon and the George Washington Masonic National Memorial.
Tempo Restaurant offers upscale French and Italian dishes. Los Toltecos Mexican restaurant gives customers a casual dining experience while they sip margaritas on the patio. Along Highway 236 in the center of Seminary Hill, there is a variety of restaurants to choose from.
Holmes Run Dog Park is a great place for puppies to run, play and be happy. It is located along Holmes Run green space just north of Tarleton Park.
The Beverly Hills neighborhood is considered to be within the boundaries of the North Ridge area in northern Alexandria. The suburb is aptly named for the hilly Beverly Hills section of the city near Russell Road and what is today the Beverly Hills Community United Methodist Church.
This bedroom community is made up of homes built after World War II by the parents of Baby Boomers. The area has aged well, and homes are still in good repair. Home prices keep rising, and real estate is a good investment here.
Commuters have easy access to Washington DC, Old Town Alexandria and most of Northern Virginia, thanks to an extensive public transportation network replete with trains, bus lines, and subway stations.
Cape Cod style homes are popular in this neighborhood, as are Colonial homes, Greek Revival architecture and even Victorian homes are common. Most homes that come on to the market are built after World War II, though. Older homes are passed on from generation to generation and rarely come to the market. Nearly all homes coming on to the market have luxurious upgrades. Homebuyers would be lucky to find a fixer-upper in this neighborhood.
Chinquapin Park Recreation Center features a swimming pool, tennis courts, racquetball and many other sports to help improve and maintain optimal health. The Mount Vernon Trail runs through Alexandria and offers 18 miles to run, bike or walk. Cameron Run Regional Park is another fun place to splash, swim and ride waves, play mini-golf or practice your baseball swing. The City of Alexandria has many suggestions for things to do via their website as well.
Alexandria West is the affordable area of Alexandria. The housing market is not as tight as in other neighborhoods that are situated closer to the Potomac River. This suburb was built to meet the needs of singles and young families who were comfortable with commuting into the city for work and want a fun, young, family-oriented atmosphere.
Alexandria West has some of the most affordable housing in the area. This is a great place for young families to get their start. It is possible to find affordable apartments, townhomes and houses throughout Alexandria West.
Homes are typical of 1930’s through 1960’s style. There are many unattached homes with ranch style layouts or Colonial two-story homes. Red brick is used extensively throughout Alexandria. Apartments are easier to find in this area than in others closer to Washington DC.
Chambliss Park is a heavily forested nature park surrounded by housing developments. This is a good place to walk a dog. Brookvalley Park offers playgrounds for kids and picnic areas in the shade of ancient oak trees. A handful of other small nature parks keep families occupied and happy.
Take environmental classes and work with animals at the Dora Kelley Nature Park. Locals might also enjoy joining in on historical war reenactments.
There are also many committee sand groups for citizens to join and get involved in the community. Drop by local coffee shops and art galleries on the weekends during summertime and enjoy poetry readings, historical lectures and cultural art exhibits.
Alexandria Public Schools has several schools throughout Alexandria West neighborhoods. William Ramsay Elementary School, St. Stephens & St. Agnes Middle School, T.C. Williams High School Minnie Howard Campus, West Potomac High School, Blessed Sacrament School, NVCC/NOVA Alexan and several other schools also serve the community.
Clyde’s at Mark Center is a lovely, rustic chain restaurant serving American classics. Fin and Porter offers a pleasant, clean atmosphere and intimate tables. Heebeen Restaurant serves up Korean Barbecue that is divine and Justa’s Chicken Restaurant offers casual dining that is very highly rated.
Fort Ward Park, Dora Kelley Nature Park, Holmes Run Scenic Easement, the Dog Run at Carlyle, Eugene Simpson Stadium Park, the Duke Street Dog Park, Shirlington Dog Park, Four Mile Run, Brookvalley Park and Ben Brenman Park are all nearby dog parks where owners can let their fur babies run and play without too much worry.
Are you considering a move to Alexandria? With its close proximity to Washington DC and its comparatively low housing costs in relation to DC, Alexandria is a sensible option for many homebuyers. Commuting is fairly simple from just about any neighborhood thanks to an extensive public transportation system, which opens up options for those with out-of-town jobs.
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