Alexandria, VA apartments for rent

Alexandria has been recognized by numerous publications as one of the best places to live in America. It took the #3 spot on the Niche.com ranking of the “Top 100 Cities in the U.S.” The city has also been recognized among the “Top 50 Cities for Entrepreneurs” and has been named among the “Top 10 Best Downtowns” by Livability.com. Alexandria was also ranked among the “Best Cities for Teleworking” and “Healthiest Cities” by Sperling’s Best Places. 

Where is Alexandria located? 

Alexandria is located on the western bank of the Potomac River in northern Virginia. The city is a 25-minute drive from Washington, D.C., which is seven miles away. Ronald Reagan National Airport is less than five miles away, which takes about 10-15 minutes by car. It lies 2.5 hours from Richmond, Va., and 1.5 hours away from Baltimore, Md. 

How big is Alexandria? 

The city has a total size of 15.5 square miles, which is less than half the size of Washington, D.C.

What is the weather like in Alexandria?

The city’s weather pattern is typical of the mid-Atlantic region, featuring hot and humid summers and winters that come with seven inches of snow, on average. July is the hottest month in the city with average high temperatures reaching 89°F, while January is the coldest, averaging a low of 24°F.

What are the advantages of living in Alexandria?  

Due to its proximity to Washington, D.C.; unique blend of urban and suburban housing options; and numerous attractive leisure activities, Alexandria is quite a popular place to live in.

What are the disadvantages of living in Alexandria? 

The longer-than-average commute time and the higher cost of living in the metropolitan area are some of the cons of living in Alexandria.

What is the public transportation system like in Alexandria? 

Amtrak and the Virginia Railway Express provide regional rail service from Alexandria Union Station. Besides this, four metrorail stations on the Washington, D.C. metro area subway system’s yellow and blue lines also serve the city. Local government operates DASH, a bus system that connects local attractions with rail stations. 

How much does public transportation cost in Alexandria? 

Average metro fares range from $2.25 to $6 per trip, depending on the number of stops travelled. 

What is the average commute time in Alexandria?

The average commute time in the city is 31.8 minutes, which is far above the national average of 26.4 minutes. 

How much does a meal cost in Alexandria? 

An average meal for two in a mid-range restaurant in the city costs $60, on average, while a regular cappuccino is generally priced at $4.50.

How much do utilities cost in Alexandria?

Residents of Alexandria pay $154.29, on average, for basic utilities for a 915-square-foot apartment. This matches the national average of $159.92.

Alexandria Housing Statistics

What are the main industries in Alexandria? 

The city is a hub for government and national defense work, offering an abundance of jobs both in the private and public sectors. 

What are the top companies in Alexandria? 

Some of the largest employers in the city’s public sector are the City of Alexandria, Alexandria Public Schools, the United States Department of Commerce and the United States Department of Defense. Grant Thornton LLP, the Institute for Defense Analyses, ABM Janitorial Services and Inova Health Systems are some of the largest employers in the private sector.

What is the public school system like in Alexandria?

The local public school system is made up of a total of 13 elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school and the T.C. Williams High School, which is made up of a 9th grade center and a school for grades 10 through 12. These institutions serve a total of 14,000 K-12 students. Numerous private and religious schools can also be found in Alexandria, including St. Agnes School, Episcopal High School and St. Stephen’s. 

What are the top colleges in Alexandria?

Virginia Theological Seminary — the largest Episcopal seminary — is based in Alexandria. Northern Virginia Community College has a campus in the city, while several prominent higher education institutions also have branches here, including Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Social Work, Virginia Tech’s Architecture Center and some professional education programs of George Washington University.

Alexandria Employment Statistics

Alexandria Education Statistics

Alexandria Household Statistics

What historic attractions are there in Alexandria?

The city’s proximity to Washington, D.C. ensures easy access to monuments, museums and other entertainment options. The Old Town area has been previously recognized as one of the best downtown cores in the country and features charming river views and an abundance of historic attractions. The George Washington Masonic National Memorial offers scenic views of Washington, D.C. and features a museum, a research center, performing arts venue and an important meeting site. The hotel and restaurant bearing the name Gadsby’s Tavern was built in the 18th century and was once patronized by prominent guests such as Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe and John Adams. Today, it is a traditional tavern restaurant and a historical museum. Organized walking tours that highlight the main milestones in the city’s history are also offered and include Civil War tours and historical home tours, as well. 

What cultural attractions are there in Alexandria?

The city’s historical museum called the Alexandria Lyceum boasts rotating exhibits and public events. The Torpedo Factor Art Center connects six art galleries and 82 artists to visitors, who can chat with them as they work on various traditional and experimental mediums. Pieces of art are also up for grabs here. The local community theater, The Little Theatre of Alexandria, is another popular cultural attraction that showcases classic musicals and shows at an affordable price.

What family attractions are there in Alexandria? 

The National Inventors Hall of Fame is a popular attraction for the entire family to enjoy. Cameron Run Regional park features waterslides, pools, batting cages and miniature golf, while the Alexandria Archaeology Museum is another famous family attraction boasting a hands-on lab where archaeologists showcase Alexandria’s history. 

What couples attractions are there in Alexandria?

For a romantic day out, stroll throughout the quaint residential streets dotted by colorful row houses in Old Town, head to the waterfront or take a walk in Founders Park. 

What restaurants are there in Alexandria?

Some of the city’s most prominent eateries can be found in the Old Town area by the waterfront. Warehouse Bar & Grill, The Wharf Restaurant and Chart House are among local favorites. Seafood joints are also popular in the city.

What to know about renting in Alexandria?

Local rental law is established by the Virginia Landlord-Tenant Act, which details the legal rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants in the city. Alexandria County’s Landlord-Tenant Relations Board is a fantastic resource for all types of renters in the city. As a renter, you should always be vigilant about the exact clauses stated in your contract.  

What are the rental laws in Alexandria? 

The Landlord-Tenant Act states that leases should never include clauses that ask for tenants to waive their rights or to make claims for damage to person or property that are caused by the landlord. Security deposits cannot be used legally as their final month’s rent should never be more than two months’ rent. Landlords must also notify tenants 30 days prior if they wish to withhold the security deposit. Otherwise, the money should be returned within 45 days with an itemized list of any charges or deductions.