5 Things I’d Consider If I Was Moving My Family to Alexandria City

Updated: November 2025

If you’re moving your family to Alexandria City, consider five essential factors: commute and accessibility, neighborhood lifestyle, housing styles and lot sizes, schools and community programs, and long-term investment potential. Alexandria blends historic charm, urban convenience, and a strong sense of community — making it one of Northern Virginia’s top choices for families.

Alexandria City offers that rare mix of history, convenience, and community — all within a short drive or Metro ride to Washington, D.C. Whether you’re drawn to Old Town’s charm or the quiet, tree-lined streets of Seminary Hill, Alexandria is a city that appeals to families who value both culture and comfort.

If I were relocating my family here, these are the five things I’d consider first before deciding where to buy.

TLDR: Quick Snapshot

• 🚗 Commute: Easy access to D.C., the Pentagon, and National Landing.

• 🏡 Lifestyle: Choose between historic walkability and suburban tranquility.

• 🏫 Schools: Strong mix of public and private options within city limits.

• 💰 Value: Stable market with high long-term appreciation.

• 🌳 Community: Active civic engagement, parks, and family events year-round.

1. Commute + Accessibility

For families with professionals commuting into D.C. or the Pentagon, Alexandria offers some of the best accessibility in Northern Virginia. Depending on the neighborhood, you can reach downtown D.C. in 15–25 minutes via I-395 or the Metro.
Old Town and Del Ray are ideal for those who value walkability and proximity to transit, while Seminary Hill and Beverley Hills appeal to those who prefer a quieter suburban feel without losing convenience.

Pro Tip: Check proximity to major routes like Duke Street and King Street — traffic patterns vary widely by neighborhood.

2. Neighborhood Lifestyle + Character

Each part of Alexandria has its own distinct feel.

• Old Town blends historic rowhomes, cobblestone streets, and waterfront dining — perfect for those who want a walkable, urban lifestyle.

• Del Ray delivers that “small-town within the city” vibe, with family events, local shops, and a tight-knit community.

• Seminary Hill and Beverley Hills offer more space, yards, and privacy — ideal for families who value suburban calm with city access.

Consider: Your lifestyle priorities. Do you want to walk to coffee shops or have a backyard big enough for weekend barbecues?

3. Schools + Community Programs

Alexandria City is known for its strong community engagement in education. Families can choose from public, private, and parochial schools within a relatively small radius. Beyond academics, the city offers extensive after-school programs, local youth sports, and civic groups that make it easy to get involved.

Note: The Davenport Group at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty cannot recommend specific schools. Always verify details directly through Alexandria City Public Schools or private school websites.

4. Housing Style + Lot Size

One of Alexandria’s biggest strengths is variety. You’ll find everything from 18th-century townhomes to new luxury builds with modern amenities.
In Old Town and Del Ray, homes tend to have smaller lots and tighter footprints but excellent walkability. In areas like Seminary Hill or Northridge, you’ll find larger yards, mature trees, and single-family homes with space to grow.

For buyers over $1.5M: Alexandria offers high-end options with historic charm and strong appreciation potential — often with easier access to D.C. than nearby suburbs.

5. Long-Term Value + Market Stability

Alexandria’s market is one of the most resilient in the DMV. Its proximity to D.C., steady demand from government and private-sector professionals, and limited land availability make it a safe long-term investment.
Whether you’re buying for your family’s next chapter or considering future resale, Alexandria combines livability with lasting value.

Local Insight: Properties in walkable neighborhoods or with outdoor space tend to sell fastest — especially among young professional families.

Key Takeaways

• Alexandria offers a balance of urban energy and suburban space.

• Commute times and neighborhood character vary, so lifestyle fit matters.

• Strong appreciation potential and community engagement add long-term value.

• Homebuyers over $1.5M can find both charm and convenience.

• It’s one of the few areas in Northern Virginia where every neighborhood feels unique.

FAQs

Q: How long is the commute from Alexandria to D.C.?
A: Depending on the neighborhood and time of day, commutes range from 15–25 minutes via I-395, Metro, or GW Parkway.

Q: What type of housing can I find in Alexandria City?
A: Everything from historic townhomes and condos to single-family homes with large yards in Seminary Hill or Beverley Hills.

Q: Is Alexandria walkable?
A: Very. Old Town and Del Ray are known for their walkable layouts, while other neighborhoods are more car-dependent.

Q: How competitive is the housing market?
A: Homes under $2M in desirable neighborhoods often sell quickly, especially if move-in ready.

Q: What kind of lifestyle does Alexandria offer for families?
A: A mix of culture, history, and convenience — from weekend farmers markets to waterfront bike rides and family festivals.

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Disclaimer

The Davenport Group at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty is licensed in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC. We are not permitted to provide advice or recommendations regarding schools or school districts. The information provided in this blog post has been collected from publicly available sources for general informational purposes only. Readers are encouraged to verify all details independently and conduct their own research before making any real estate or educational decisions.