Alexandria, VA vs Washington, DC: Cost of Living Comparison
Alexandria has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Alexandria | Washington | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 160 | 163 | Alexandria |
| Housing | 200 ($1,422) | 208 ($1,330) | Alexandria |
| Transportation | 99 ($3.50) | 106 ($3.50) | Alexandria |
| Food & groceries | 152 ($623) | 142 ($582) | Washington |
| Utilities | 150 ($360) | 154 ($374) | Alexandria |
| Healthcare | 150 ($260) | 154 ($270) | Alexandria |
| Median annual wage | 115 ($55,690) | 189 ($91,540) | Alexandria |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alexandria, VA or Washington, DC cheaper to live in?
Alexandria, VA is cheaper overall by about 3 index points (Alexandria, VA: 160, Washington, DC: 163; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Alexandria, VA vs Washington, DC?
A single adult needs roughly $56,000/year in Alexandria, VA and $57,050/year in Washington, DC to cover basic living costs.