Arlington vs. Alexandria vs. DC
Cost of Living Guide
Median home prices, rents, property tax rates, sales taxes, income taxes, and closing costs compared side by side across Northern Virginia and Washington DC.
The Short Answer
Alexandria is the most affordable housing entry point of the three, with a median home price of approximately $637,000 and average rent of $2,137/month. Arlington is the most expensive for housing, with a median home price of $783,000 and average rent of $2,643/month. Washington DC sits in the middle with a $700,000 median home price and $2,490/month average rent. Property tax rates: Arlington charges $1.033 per $100 assessed value, Alexandria $1.135 per $100, and DC $0.85 per $100 (residential Class 1). However, DC charges a 1.45% deed recordation tax at closing and progressive income tax rates, making Alexandria the best value-to-access tradeoff and Arlington the premier choice for Metro walkability and school district ratings.
2026/2027 Cost-of-Living Snapshot
Housing, taxes, rent, and living wage metrics compared across Arlington, Alexandria, and Washington DC.
Cost Category | Arlington, VA | Alexandria, VA | Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|---|
Median Home Sale Price | ~$783,000 | ~$637,000 | ~$700,000 |
Average Rent (All Units) | ~$2,643/mo | ~$2,137/mo | ~$2,490/mo |
Property Tax Rate | $1.033 per $100 assessed | $1.135 per $100 assessed | $0.85 per $100 assessed (Class 1) |
General Sales Tax | 6.0% (NOVA region) | 6.0% (NOVA region) | 6.0% (General retail) |
Deed Recordation Tax | Standard VA Transfer Tax | Standard VA Transfer Tax | 1.45% of purchase price |
MIT Living Wage (1 Adult) | $30.54/hr | $28.98/hr | $25.98/hr |
Note: Figures reflect regional MLS data, local municipal tax schedules, and MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates. Actual housing costs vary by neighborhood and property type.
Not Sure Which Market Fits Your Budget?
The Keri Shull Team models a personalized monthly payment comparison across Arlington, Alexandria, and DC neighborhoods for every client consultation. Browse active listings or connect with our team regarding your target budget and commute.
What You Get for Your Money in Each Market
You Pay a Premium For:
1. Metro Walkability: Clarendon, Ballston, and Rosslyn offer Walk Scores of 88 to 92 along Orange/Silver Metro lines.
2. Top School Ratings: Arlington Public Schools (APS) consistently rank among Virginia's top district performers.
3. Fast DC Commute: 5 to 15 minutes into DC. Explore complete submarket details on our Arlington Hub.
The Best Value Case For:
1. Lower Entry Price: $637,000 median price vs $783,000 in Arlington saves ~$700 to $900/month in mortgage payments.
2. More Space Per Dollar: West End and Carlyle offer larger floor plans and single-family lots at lower price points.
3. Amazon HQ2 Proximity: Potomac Yard Metro is 2 stops from National Landing. View our Alexandria Hub.
DC-Specific Tax Factors:
1. Lower Property Tax Rate: DC's Class 1 residential rate ($0.85/$100) saves $1,000+ annually vs VA property tax.
2. Deed Recordation Tax: DC charges 1.45% of purchase price at closing (~$10,150 on a $700,000 purchase).
3. Neighborhood Range: High variance between Capitol Hill rowhouses, Navy Yard condos, and NW single-family homes.
How to Compare Total Monthly Cost
The headline purchase price is only one component of your housing budget. A complete monthly cost model includes:
- Mortgage Principal & Interest: Based on interest rate and down payment size.
- Property Taxes: Arlington ($1.033/$100), Alexandria ($1.135/$100), DC ($0.85/$100).
- HOA or Condo Dues: Critical when comparing Arlington and DC urban condos.
- Transit & Commute Offset: Eliminating a second vehicle via Metro proximity can offset $400-$600/month in car expenses.
Monthly Cost at Median Price
Assumes 20% Down Payment at ~6.5% Interest Rate
Excludes condo fees, homeowners insurance, and closing recordation taxes.
Related Real Estate Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheapest overall: Arlington, Alexandria, or DC?
Alexandria has the lowest median home price ($637,000) and lowest average rent ($2,137/month) of the three markets. Arlington is the most expensive for housing ($783,000 median, $2,643/month rent). DC sits between the two on headline numbers at approximately $700,000 median and $2,490/month rent, but DC's property tax rate (0.85%) is lower than both Virginia jurisdictions.
Are property taxes lower in DC than Arlington or Alexandria?
Yes, for residential property. DC's Class 1 residential rate is $0.85 per $100 of assessed value. Arlington charges $1.033 per $100 and Alexandria charges $1.135 per $100. On a $700,000 home, that means approximately $5,950/year in DC vs $7,231/year in Arlington vs $7,945/year in Alexandria.
Is Alexandria a good alternative to Arlington for first-time buyers?
Yes. The $146,000 difference in median home price between Arlington and Alexandria translates to roughly $700 to $900 per month in mortgage payment savings. Alexandria provides Metro access, National Landing proximity, and strong appreciation in Old Town and Del Ray.
Does the DC Recordation Tax affect the Arlington vs DC cost comparison?
Yes, significantly at closing. DC charges 1.45% of the sales price to record the deed. On a $700,000 DC purchase, that is approximately $10,150 in additional closing costs due at settlement compared to lower Virginia recordation taxes.
Ready to Choose the Right DMV Market?
Whether you are deciding between Arlington and Alexandria, weighing DC vs Virginia taxes, or determining your monthly budget, the Keri Shull Team can model the full cost comparison for your situation.
