Market Overview
Alexandria is pricier ($680K median vs $280K), a difference of about $400K. Alexandria moves faster, with homes averaging 12 days on market compared to 24 in Norfolk. Norfolk offers a lower entry point at $100K–$1M.
Alexandria
VA
Norfolk
VA
Median Price
$680K
$280K
Avg Days on Market
12 days
24 days
Price Range
$300K–$2M
$100K–$1M
Top Neighborhoods
Old Town, Del Ray, Rosemont, Potomac Yard
Ghent, Downtown Norfolk, West Ghent, Colonial Place
Schools
Alexandria leads on school quality with a 78% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 65% in Norfolk. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Norfolk, families look to Maury High School and Granby High School. See Alexandria schools | See Norfolk schools
Alexandria
VA
Norfolk
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Average
Avg Pass Rate
78%
65%
Top Schools
T.C. Williams High School, George Mason Elementary, Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy
Maury High School, Granby High School, Norfolk Academy (private)
Pass Rate
Commute
Norfolk 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), Norfolk (I-264, I-64, I-564).
Alexandria
VA
Norfolk
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-264, I-64, I-564, Rt 13
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
None
Walkability
Alexandria is more walkable with a Walk Score of 57 (Somewhat Walkable), compared to 42 in Norfolk. Transit scores: Alexandria (44) vs Norfolk (22). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Old Town and Ghent score much higher than suburban areas.
Alexandria
VA
Norfolk
VA
Walk Score
Transit Score
44
22
Bike Score
64
48
Safety
Alexandria is rated "Average" with a total crime rate 15% above Virginia average. Norfolk is rated "Below Average" (72% 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
Norfolk
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
1.7/1K
4.2/1K
Property Crime
17.8/1K
24.8/1K
vs Virginia Avg
15% above Virginia average
72% above Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alexandria or Norfolk more affordable?
Norfolk is more affordable with a median home price of $280K, 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. Norfolk prices range from $100K–$1M.
Which has better schools, Alexandria or Norfolk?
Alexandria has stronger schools overall, with a 78% average pass rate compared to 65% in Norfolk. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Norfolk, standout schools include Maury High School and Granby High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Alexandria or Norfolk?
Norfolk has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~20 minutes. Alexandria has Metro access (King St-Old Town). Norfolk has no direct Metro access.
Is Alexandria or Norfolk better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Historic Old Town charm meets modern living in Alexandria. Norfolk is the cultural hub of Hampton Roads, home to Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval base. 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.