Alexandria, VA vs Arlington, VA: Cost of Living Comparison
Alexandria has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Alexandria | Arlington | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 160 | 190 | Alexandria |
| Housing | 200 ($1,422) | 248 ($1,593) | Alexandria |
| Transportation | 99 ($3.50) | 99 ($3.50) | Tie |
| Food & groceries | 152 ($623) | 188 ($771) | Alexandria |
| Utilities | 150 ($360) | 174 ($446) | Alexandria |
| Healthcare | 150 ($260) | 174 ($322) | Alexandria |
| Median annual wage | 115 ($55,690) | 115 ($55,690) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alexandria, VA or Arlington, VA cheaper to live in?
Alexandria, VA is cheaper overall by about 30 index points (Alexandria, VA: 160, Arlington, VA: 190; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Alexandria, VA vs Arlington, VA?
A single adult needs roughly $56,000/year in Alexandria, VA and $66,500/year in Arlington, VA to cover basic living costs.