Alexandria, Virginia Property Management Services

Location of Alexandria

Alexandria is located along the western bank of the Potomac River, approximately seven miles south of Washington, D.C. The city measures 15.5 square miles and is bounded on the east by the Potomac River, on the north and northwest by Arlington County, and on the south by Fairfax County. 

Prominent neighborhoods in Alexandria include Old Town, Parker-Gray, The Berg, Rosemont, Del Ray, Beverley Hills, Braddock Heights, Eisenhower Valley, Seminary Valley, Temple Park, West End, and Potomac Yard. 

Population and Demographics

 According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the population of Alexandria numbers 159,467, with a median age of 36.8. 

The average household income in Alexandria is $138,029, with 43.9% of occupied housing units being owner-occupied and 56.61% having renters as residents.

White-collar workers make up 88.87% of the working population of Alexandria. Its three largest employers are the United States Department of Defense, the United States Patent and Trademark Office, and the City of Alexandria.

Area History

From the first Native Americans to settle here to the bustling city it is today, the timeline of Alexandria’s history is filled with events that helped shape the United States into the country it is today.

Alexandria was founded in 1749 by Scottish merchants and was named after Scotsman John Alexander. Alexandria is known as being the adopted hometown of America’s first president, George Washington. As a teenager, Washington surveyed the city. Later, he owned a townhouse in Old Town. You can see a replica of the townhouse today on Cameron Street. He also worshiped at Christ Church (you can tour the site and sit in his pew – number 60).

The first fatalities of the North and South in the American Civil War occurred in Alexandria. Within a month of the Battle of Fort Sumter, Union troops occupied Alexandria, landing at the base of King Street on the Potomac River on May 24, 1861.

After the civil war, Alexandria, like the rest of America, underwent an industrial revolution that helped it rebuild. It has continued to grow ever since, and much of its history can be found in its many museums.

Education

Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) serves over 15,000 students from more than 145 countries and who speak more than 130 languages. ACPS has 18 schools, including two middle schools, two K-8 schools, one pre-K school, and the internationally recognized Alexandria City High School. 

Colleges with campuses in or near Alexandria include George Washington University, Georgetown University, University of Maryland, George Mason University, and Northern Virginia Community College.

Things to Do

Arguably Virginia’s most charming city, Alexandria is famous for its cobblestone streets, brick-lined sidewalks, and original 18th-century homes. It’s also conveniently located along the Potomac River’s waterfront, adding yet another dimension of intrigue to this one-of-a-kind place. Although well known as a place steeped in history, Alexandria has much to offer in the way of modern entertainment and relaxed travel experiences. 

Old Town: the most iconic neighborhood and the heart of Alexandria. It’s situated along the waterfront and extends down the famous King Street, a shopping and dining paradise. The narrow, brick-lined streets are still reminiscent of colonial times, and the stunning 18th-century buildings have been brought back to life with modern touches while leaving their original charm intact. 

Gadsby’s Tavern Museum: The Gadsby Tavern first opened in 1785, and later in 1792, the City Tavern and Hotel opened. This two-building complex is now a museum with daily tours to find out what life was like back in colonial days. 

The tavern was frequented by several famous people, including George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, and the Marquis de Lafayette.

Alexandria Farmers’ Market: The Old Town Farmers’ Market is one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the country. Even George Washington sent his produce from Mt. Vernon to be sold at this market. 

In peak season, there are over 70 vendors selling meat, cheese, bread, pastries, pasta, fruits, vegetables, plants, flowers, jewelry, soap, and art. 

There are many things to discover at this market, whether you want to buy souvenirs, food, or just enjoy strolling around looking at the many things the market has to offer. 

Mt. Vernon: A must-see place in Alexandria not only for the historical significance but for its beautiful grounds and view. Mt. Vernon was the home of George Washington, owned by his family for generations.

You can start the tour at the main house, which has been restored to how it would have looked in colonial times. You can still see many original items such as furniture, gifts, and even the deathbed of President Washington.

You can also walk around the grounds, see the beautiful view of the water from the back porch, and visit the four-acre farm, barn, distillery, and gristmill. This is one of the most popular things to do in Alexandria for history lovers.

Home Prices and Trends

In March 2022, Alexandria’s median listing home price was $600,000, trending up 2.6% year-over-year. The median listing home price per square foot was $355. The median home sold price was $640K.

Alexandria is a seller’s market, which means that more people are looking to buy than there are homes available. On average, homes sell after 33 days on the market. 

Is Alexandria the Best Place For You?

According to residents and visitors alike, Alexandria is a great place to be. It might be the best place for you to live if:

You want to be close to D.C. One of the best things about Alexandria is that all of D.C.’s nightlife, museums, restaurants, and events are right at your doorstep. 

You value walkability. Alexandria boasts many very walkable areas, including Old Town, Del Ray, and the new Potomac Yard neighborhood. 

You love special events. Alexandria hosts many fun events throughout the year, including the Campagna Center’s Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend, the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights on the Potomac, the King Street Art Festival, and the Alexandria Film Festival. 

The multicultural diversity of the city is another big plus, and this is exemplified in all of the Alexandria neighborhoods: Old Town, Parker-Gray, The Berg, Rosemont, Del Ray, Beverley Hills, Braddock Heights, Eisenhower Valley, Seminary Valley, West End, and Potomac Yard. Many areas outside the city have an Alexandria mailing address yet are a part of Fairfax County including: Hollin Hills, Franconia, Groveton, Hybla Valley, Huntington, Lincolnia, Belle Haven, Mount Vernon, Fort Hunt, Engleside, Burgundy Village, Waynewood, Wilton Woods, Rose Hill, Virginia Hills, Hayfield, and Kingstowne. Some refer to these areas as Lower Alexandria, South Alexandria, or Alexandria, Fairfax County.

Whether you currently have rental property or are looking to buy one in the Alexandria area, we invite you to contact our team at RentSimple. Let us show you that your priorities are what matter most to us.