Market Overview
Alexandria is pricier ($680K median vs $255K), a difference of about $425K. Alexandria moves faster, with homes averaging 12 days on market compared to 25 in Hampton. Hampton offers a lower entry point at $80K–$650K.
Alexandria
VA
Hampton
VA
Median Price
$680K
$255K
Avg Days on Market
12 days
25 days
Price Range
$300K–$2M
$80K–$650K
Top Neighborhoods
Old Town, Del Ray, Rosemont, Potomac Yard
Phoebus, Buckroe Beach, Fox Hill, Wythe
Schools
Alexandria leads on school quality with a 78% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Hampton, families look to Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. See Alexandria schools | See Hampton schools
Alexandria
VA
Hampton
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Average
Avg Pass Rate
78%
65%
Top Schools
T.C. Williams High School, George Mason Elementary, Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy
Hampton High School, Phoebus High School, Bethel High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Alexandria is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~25 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), Hampton (I-64, I-664, Rt 258).
Alexandria
VA
Hampton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~25 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, I-664, Rt 258
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
Safety
Alexandria is rated "Average" with a total crime rate 15% above Virginia average. Hampton is rated "Below Average" (42% 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
Hampton
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
1.7/1K
3.8/1K
Property Crime
17.8/1K
20.2/1K
vs Virginia Avg
15% above Virginia average
42% above Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alexandria or Hampton more affordable?
Hampton is more affordable with a median home price of $255K, 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. Hampton prices range from $80K–$650K.
Which has better schools, Alexandria or Hampton?
Alexandria has stronger schools overall, with a 78% average pass rate compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Hampton, standout schools include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Alexandria or Hampton?
Alexandria has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~25 minutes. Alexandria has Metro access (King St-Old Town). Hampton has no direct Metro access.
Is Alexandria or Hampton better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Historic Old Town charm meets modern living in Alexandria. Hampton is a historic waterfront city on the Chesapeake Bay, home to Langley Air Force Base, NASA Langley Research Center, and Hampton University. 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.