Market Overview
Alexandria is pricier ($680K median vs $400K), a difference of about $280K. Alexandria moves faster, with homes averaging 12 days on market compared to 22 in Charlottesville. Charlottesville offers a lower entry point at $175K–$2M.
Alexandria
VA
Charlottesville
VA
Median Price
$680K
$400K
Avg Days on Market
12 days
22 days
Price Range
$300K–$2M
$175K–$2M
Top Neighborhoods
Old Town, Del Ray, Rosemont, Potomac Yard
Downtown Mall, Belmont, North Downtown, Barracks Road
Schools
Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville, families look to Charlottesville High School and Buford Middle School. See Alexandria schools | See Charlottesville schools
Alexandria
VA
Charlottesville
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
78%
80%
Top Schools
T.C. Williams High School, George Mason Elementary, Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy
Charlottesville High School, Buford Middle School, Jackson-Via Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Charlottesville is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~20 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), Charlottesville (I-64, Rt 29, Rt 250).
Alexandria
VA
Charlottesville
VA
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~10 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
I-64, Rt 29, Rt 250
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
Walkability
Alexandria is more walkable with a Walk Score of 57 (Somewhat Walkable), compared to 48 in Charlottesville. Transit scores: Alexandria (44) vs Charlottesville (18). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Old Town and Downtown Mall score much higher than suburban areas.
Alexandria
VA
Charlottesville
VA
Walk Score
Transit Score
44
18
Bike Score
64
58
Safety
Alexandria is rated "Average" with a total crime rate 15% above Virginia average. Charlottesville is rated "Below Average" (32% 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
Charlottesville
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
1.7/1K
2.5/1K
Property Crime
17.8/1K
19.8/1K
vs Virginia Avg
15% above Virginia average
32% above Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alexandria or Charlottesville more affordable?
Charlottesville is more affordable with a median home price of $400K, 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. Charlottesville prices range from $175K–$2M.
Which has better schools, Alexandria or Charlottesville?
Charlottesville 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 Charlottesville, standout schools include Charlottesville High School and Buford Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Alexandria or Charlottesville?
Charlottesville has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~20 minutes. Alexandria has Metro access (King St-Old Town). Charlottesville has no direct Metro access.
Is Alexandria or Charlottesville better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Historic Old Town charm meets modern living in Alexandria. Charlottesville is a college town centered around the University of Virginia, with a walkable downtown, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Virginia wine country. 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.