Alexandria

Alexandria was born as a port for tobacco warehouses in the early 18th century, and its shoreline would soon become a thriving hub for that crop, along with flour, sugar, cotton, and wine. Today, those riverfront warehouses and factories have given way to art studios, galleries, shops, and restaurants.
 
Situated just across the river from the iconic National Mall, Alexandria is best known for its unique blend of storybook charm and present-day allure.

What to Expect

Everything from urban energy to quiet suburbia.

​​​​​​​Old Town forms the heart of Alexandria—its bustling streets filled with shops, restaurants, galleries, and museums— but the city’s main thoroughfares reach out to a variety of other neighborhoods, from the eclectic Del Ray to the modern townhouse and condo developments that surround big-box retail centers in Potomac Yard.

The Lifestyle

A more traditional take than its neighbors across the river.

Stroll the streets of Old Town and Del Rey to discover an eclectic offering of boutiques and dining, as well as the riverside marinas that are home to the area's foremost sailboats and motor craft. Children play in large parks along the water, where the Mount Vernon trail is a destination for runners and bikers who can travel through Alexandria between Reagan National Airport and George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, located more than 10 miles to the south.

Unexpected Appeal

A pervasive sense of history.

Alexandria’s residents put much thought and care into preserving original buildings and honoring their stories, whether those structures are museums or private homes.

The Market

17th-century row houses, colonials, modest bungalows, revival mansions, and modern condos.
 
Prospective residents can find myriad price points across the city. The most expensive real estate starts at the river in Old Town and centers around enclaves such as Del Ray, Rosemont, and Seminary Hill, where single-family homes are predominant. Carlyle and Eisenhower East offer more approachable listings, specifically for those in search of condos living close to the metro.

You'll Fall in Love With

Expansive riverfront parks, tranquil leafy streets, and a mix of urban and suburban life.

Even if you can’t afford to live right in Old Town, its trails and parks are a draw from Alexandria’s nearby neighborhoods. Area residents and tourists flock to its weekly farmer’s market, quiet restaurants, and large concentration of independent boutiques that invite you to step inside and linger.