Market Overview
Alexandria is pricier ($680K median vs $560K), a difference of about $120K. Alexandria moves faster, with homes averaging 12 days on market compared to 27 in Stafford. Stafford offers a lower entry point at $108K–$1.3M.
Alexandria
VA
Stafford
VA
Median Price
$680K
$560K
Avg Days on Market
12 days
27 days
Price Range
$300K–$2M
$108K–$1.3M
Top Neighborhoods
Old Town, Del Ray, Rosemont, Potomac Yard
Aquia Harbour, Stafford Lakes, Embrey Mill, Winding Creek
Schools
Alexandria leads on school quality with a 78% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 77% in Stafford. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Stafford, families look to North Stafford High School and Mountain View High School. See Alexandria schools | See Stafford schools
Alexandria
VA
Stafford
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
78%
77%
Top Schools
T.C. Williams High School, George Mason Elementary, Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy
North Stafford High School, Mountain View High School, Stafford High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Alexandria is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~55 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), Stafford (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 610).
Alexandria
VA
Stafford
VA
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~55 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-95, Rt 1, Rt 610
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
Property Tax
On a $680K home in Alexandria, you would pay ~$7,548/yr in property tax. In Stafford, a $560K home costs ~$5,874/yr. Stafford has the lower rate at $1.049 per $100 of assessed value.
Alexandria
VA
Stafford
VA
Rate per $100
$1.110
$1.049
Est. Annual Tax
Based on median home price
$7,548/yr
$5,874/yr
Walkability
Alexandria is more walkable with a Walk Score of 57 (Somewhat Walkable), compared to 15 in Stafford. Transit scores: Alexandria (44) vs Stafford (8). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Old Town and Aquia Harbour score much higher than suburban areas.
Alexandria
VA
Stafford
VA
Walk Score
Transit Score
44
8
Bike Score
64
18
Safety
Stafford is rated "Safe" with a total crime rate 31% below Virginia average. Alexandria is rated "Average" (15% 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
Stafford
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
1.7/1K
0.9/1K
Property Crime
17.8/1K
10.8/1K
vs Virginia Avg
15% above Virginia average
31% below Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alexandria or Stafford more affordable?
Stafford is more affordable with a median home price of $560K, 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. Stafford prices range from $108K–$1.3M.
Which has better schools, Alexandria or Stafford?
Alexandria has stronger schools overall, with a 78% average pass rate compared to 77% in Stafford. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Stafford, standout schools include North Stafford High School and Mountain View High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Alexandria or Stafford?
Alexandria has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~55 minutes. Alexandria has Metro access (King St-Old Town). Stafford has no direct Metro access.
What are property taxes in Alexandria vs Stafford?
Alexandria has a property tax rate of $1.110 per $100 (~$7,548/yr on a $680K home). Stafford's rate is $1.049 per $100 (~$5,874/yr on a $560K home). Tax rates are set annually by each locality.
Is Alexandria or Stafford better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Historic Old Town charm meets modern living in Alexandria. Stafford County offers affordable homes and a growing community south of the D. 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.