Market Overview
Alexandria is pricier ($680K median vs $510K), a difference of about $170K. Alexandria moves faster, with homes averaging 12 days on market compared to 25 in Annapolis. Annapolis offers a lower entry point at $200K–$3M+.
Alexandria
VA
Annapolis
MD
Median Price
$680K
$510K
Avg Days on Market
12 days
25 days
Price Range
$300K–$2M
$200K–$3M+
Top Neighborhoods
Old Town, Del Ray, Rosemont, Potomac Yard
Downtown Annapolis, Eastport, West Annapolis, Parole
Schools
Annapolis leads on school quality with a 80% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 78% in Alexandria. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Annapolis, families look to Annapolis High School and Broadneck High School. See Alexandria schools | See Annapolis schools
Alexandria
VA
Annapolis
MD
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
78%
80%
Top Schools
T.C. Williams High School, George Mason Elementary, Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy
Annapolis High School, Broadneck High School, Annapolis Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Alexandria is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Alexandria has 4 Metro stations, including King St-Old Town on the Blue/Yellow lines. Major highway access: Alexandria (I-395, I-495, GW Parkway), Annapolis (Rt 50, Rt 2, I-97).
Alexandria
VA
Annapolis
MD
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~45 min
Metro Stations
4 Metro stations (nearest: King St-Old Town)
No Metro access
Metro Lines
Blue, Yellow
N/A
Major Highways
I-395, I-495, GW Parkway
Rt 50, Rt 2, I-97
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
Property Tax
On a $680K home in Alexandria, you would pay ~$7,548/yr in property tax. In Annapolis, a $510K home costs ~$4,769/yr. Annapolis has the lower rate at $0.935 per $100 of assessed value.
Alexandria
VA
Annapolis
MD
Rate per $100
$1.110
$0.935
Est. Annual Tax
Based on median home price
$7,548/yr
$4,769/yr
Notes
None
Anne Arundel County rate; City of Annapolis adds $0.738
Walkability
Alexandria is more walkable with a Walk Score of 57 (Somewhat Walkable), compared to 45 in Annapolis. Transit scores: Alexandria (44) vs Annapolis (18). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Old Town and Downtown Annapolis score much higher than suburban areas.
Alexandria
VA
Annapolis
MD
Walk Score
Transit Score
44
18
Bike Score
64
52
Safety
Alexandria is rated "Average" with a total crime rate 15% above Virginia average. Annapolis is rated "Below Average" (34% above Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to broader regional trends. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.
Alexandria
VA
Annapolis
MD
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
1.7/1K
2.2/1K
Property Crime
17.8/1K
20.5/1K
vs Virginia Avg
15% above Virginia average
34% above Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alexandria or Annapolis more affordable?
Annapolis is more affordable with a median home price of $510K, compared to $680K in Alexandria. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Alexandria prices range from $300K–$2M. Annapolis prices range from $200K–$3M+.
Which has better schools, Alexandria or Annapolis?
Annapolis has stronger schools overall, with a 80% average pass rate compared to 78% in Alexandria. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Annapolis, standout schools include Annapolis High School and Broadneck High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Alexandria or Annapolis?
Alexandria has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Alexandria has Metro access (King St-Old Town). Annapolis has no direct Metro access.
What are property taxes in Alexandria vs Annapolis?
Alexandria has a property tax rate of $1.110 per $100 (~$7,548/yr on a $680K home). Annapolis's rate is $0.935 per $100 (~$4,769/yr on a $510K home). Tax rates are set annually by each locality.
Is Alexandria or Annapolis better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Historic Old Town charm meets modern living in Alexandria. Annapolis is Maryland's capital and the home of the U. The best choice depends on your priorities: budget, school quality, commute length, and neighborhood feel. smover can help you find a verified agent in either city who specializes in family-friendly neighborhoods.
Market data verified by smover using real transaction records. School data from Virginia DOE, Maryland MSDE, and DC OSSE public reports. Property tax rates from Virginia Dept. of Taxation (2024). Walkability scores from Walk Score (2024). Crime data from FBI UCR and Virginia State Police (2023). Commute times are approximate rush-hour estimates. Updated March 2026.