Arlington, VA vs. Alexandria, VA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
As the D.C. metro area continues to grow, many people find themselves comparing the cost of living between nearby cities like Arlington and Alexandria. While both offer a blend of urban amenities and suburban charm, subtle differences in housing, taxes, and daily expenses can add up to significant savings — or costs — over time.
For the Johnsons, a family of four planning a move in 2025, the choice between Arlington and Alexandria comes down to balancing their budget with their lifestyle priorities. “We love the historic character of Old Town Alexandria,” says Sarah Johnson, “but we’re also drawn to Arlington’s newer homes and slightly shorter commute. It’s a tough call.”
To help families like the Johnsons — and anyone else weighing a move in 2025 — we’ve broken down the key cost of living factors in Arlington and Alexandria, from housing and utilities to groceries and taxes. While both cities offer a high quality of life, one may prove a better fit for your finances.
Housing Costs: Rent and Mortgage Prices
Housing is the biggest line item in most household budgets, and the Arlington-Alexandria comparison is no exception. While both cities have a mix of apartments, townhomes, and single-family houses, Arlington tends to have slightly newer construction and a larger share of owner-occupied homes.
According to recent data, the median home price in Arlington is around $750,000, compared to $675,000 in Alexandria. For renters, a typical two-bedroom apartment goes for about $2,400 per month in Arlington and $2,200 in Alexandria.
| Housing Type | Arlington | Alexandria |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $2,400 | $2,200 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $950,000 | $850,000 |
For a family like the Johnsons, who need space for two growing kids, Alexandria’s slightly lower housing costs could translate to significant savings — potentially $200 per month in rent or $100,000 in purchase price. Young professionals and couples, on the other hand, may find Arlington’s newer apartments and condos worth the premium.
Overall, while Alexandria has an edge on housing affordability, both cities are pricey by national standards. Families can find more budget-friendly options farther out in the suburbs, while those prioritizing location may need to adjust their size or amenity expectations.
Utility Bills and Energy Expenses
Utility costs are another important consideration, especially given the region’s hot summers and cold winters. Fortunately, both Arlington and Alexandria residents have access to competitive electricity and natural gas rates, with providers like Dominion Energy and Washington Gas.
For a typical household, monthly utility bills — including electricity, gas, water, and trash — average around $180 in Arlington and $170 in Alexandria. Larger homes and older construction may see higher costs, particularly for heating and cooling.
The Johnsons, coming from a newer home in a milder climate, will need to budget accordingly. “We’re used to pretty low utility bills,” notes Sarah, “so that’s definitely something we’ll keep an eye on as we compare options.”
All told, while Alexandria may offer modest utility savings, both cities’ costs are in line with the D.C. metro average. Efficiency-minded homeowners can often offset differences with weatherization, smart thermostats, and other energy-saving measures.
Groceries, Dining Out, and Daily Expenses
On the day-to-day front, Arlington and Alexandria offer a similar mix of grocery stores, restaurants, and retail options. National chains like Safeway, Giant, and Harris Teeter operate in both cities, alongside specialty markets and local favorites.
According to cost of living data, a typical family of four can expect to spend around $1,000 per month on groceries in either city. This assumes a mix of home cooking and occasional dining out, with most meals prepared at home.
For the Johnsons, who enjoy trying new restaurants and cafes, Alexandria’s celebrated dining scene is a big draw. “We love the variety in Old Town,” says Sarah, “from cozy bistros to waterfront seafood spots. It’s a foodie paradise.”
Of course, with an abundance of dining options comes the temptation to overspend. Families can balance their budget by seeking out happy hour specials, splitting entrees, and taking advantage of Alexandria’s many free festivals and events.
Taxes, Fees, and Other Expenses
Finally, would-be residents need to factor in taxes and other location-specific costs. Virginia’s statewide income tax ranges from 2% to 5.75%, with additional local taxes varying by city and county.
In Arlington, the average effective property tax rate is 0.96%, slightly higher than Alexandria’s 0.91%. For a $750,000 home, that equates to an annual difference of about $375.
Both cities also charge personal property taxes on vehicles, with rates around 5% of assessed value. And while Virginia’s 5.3% sales tax applies equally in Arlington and Alexandria, the latter charges a 1% meals tax on restaurant purchases.
For the budget-conscious Johnsons, Alexandria’s slightly lower property taxes are appealing. “Every little bit helps,” says Sarah, “especially with two kids to put through college someday.”
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| Category | Arlington | Alexandria |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage or Rent) | $2,400 – $3,500 | $2,200 – $3,200 |
| Utilities | $180 | $170 |
| Groceries & Dining | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $100 – $200 | $100 – $200 |
| Taxes | 0.96% property tax | 0.91% property tax + 1% meals tax |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,680 – $4,880 | $3,470 – $4,570 |
Estimates reflect 2025 costs for a mid-size household (2-bedroom apartment or 3-bedroom home) using published national data and regional benchmarks. Actual expenses will vary with household size, lifestyle, and neighborhood.
As the table shows, a typical family can expect to spend around $3,500 to $4,500 per month in either Arlington or Alexandria, with housing accounting for the lion’s share. While Alexandria comes out slightly ahead on overall affordability, the difference may be negligible for some households.
For the Johnsons, it’s a close call. “Based on these numbers, we could probably save $200 to $300 a month by choosing Alexandria,” Sarah reflects. “But we also have to weigh that against commute times, schools, and other quality of life factors. It’s not just a math problem.”
Lifestyle Fit: Commutes, Culture, and Local Flavor
Indeed, while cost of living is a crucial consideration, it’s not the only one. Arlington and Alexandria each offer distinct lifestyle advantages that can tip the scales for different households.
For commuters, Arlington’s proximity to D.C. is a major selling point. The city is served by the Blue, Orange, and Silver Metro lines, as well as an extensive bus network and bike trails. The average commute time in Arlington is 28 minutes, compared to 32 minutes in Alexandria.
Alexandria, meanwhile, offers a more historic and walkable downtown, with cobblestone streets, independent shops, and a thriving arts scene. Old Town, the city’s cultural heart, is home to more than 200 restaurants and boutiques, plus a bustling farmers market and waterfront park.
For the Johnsons, it’s a question of balancing work and play. “We love the idea of walking to dinner and drinks in Old Town,” says Sarah, “but we also don’t want to spend all our free time stuck in traffic. It’s a tough tradeoff.”
Ultimately, the right choice depends on each household’s unique priorities and circumstances. By weighing the financial and lifestyle factors carefully, families like the Johnsons can find the best fit for their needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arlington more affordable than Alexandria in 2025?
While Alexandria has slightly lower housing and utility costs on average, the difference is relatively small. For most households, other factors like commute times, schools, and neighborhood amenities will likely play a bigger role in the decision.
Are rental prices lower in Arlington or Alexandria?
According to 2025 data, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is around $2,400 in Arlington and $2,200 in Alexandria. However, prices can vary widely depending on the specific neighborhood, building age, and amenities.
How do grocery costs compare between Arlington and Alexandria?
Grocery costs are similar in both cities, with a typical family of four spending around $1,000 per month. Both Arlington and Alexandria have a mix of national chains, specialty markets, and local food options at various price points.
What is the average monthly cost of living for a family of four in Arlington vs. Alexandria?
Based on 2025 estimates, a family of four can expect to spend around $4,500 to $5,000 per month in Arlington and $4,300 to $4,800 in Alexandria. This includes housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and taxes, but actual costs will depend on the family’s specific lifestyle and needs.
Is Arlington considered a better value for homebuyers compared to Alexandria?
While Arlington has slightly higher median home prices than Alexandria, it also tends to have newer construction and a larger share of owner-occupied homes. For some buyers, the newer housing stock and shorter commute times may justify the higher cost. Ultimately, the better value depends on each buyer’s budget, preferences, and long-term plans.
Making Your Move: Arlington or Alexandria?
For the Johnsons and countless other families, the choice between Arlington and Alexandria is a personal one, shaped by a mix of financial, practical, and emotional factors. While Alexandria offers modest cost savings and a historic downtown, Arlington boasts newer homes, shorter commutes, and a wider range of housing options.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to visit both cities in person, explore different neighborhoods, and get a feel for the local vibe. Whether you’re drawn to Arlington’s urban energy or Alexandria’s small-town charm, both offer a high quality of life in the heart of the D.C. metro area.
Ready to start planning your move? Check out our guide to monthly expenses in Arlington or our overview of living costs in Alexandria for more detailed budgeting insights. And when it’s time to pack up, be sure to compare moving company quotes to find the best deal on your relocation.