Alexandria, VA Reviews


49 Reviews



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What BestPlaces Users Say about Alexandria

Alexandria, Virginia is a city located just outside of Washington D.C. It is known for its rich history, charming Old Town area, and proximity to the nation's capital. With a population of approximately 160,000 people, Alexandria offers a mix of suburban and urban living. Many people are drawn to this city for its diverse community, strong local economy, and access to a variety of amenities. However, as with any place, there are also drawbacks to living in Alexandria. In this summary, we will take a look at what various individuals have to say about living in this particular place.

According to user reviews on BestPlaces.net, overall, many people enjoy living in Alexandria. One reviewer, named Sarah, praises the city's "friendly and welcoming community" and "beautiful scenery." She also mentions that there is a strong sense of history and culture in Alexandria that adds to its charm. Another reviewer, named Mike, appreciates the convenience of living in Alexandria, stating that "everything you need is within walking distance." However, not all reviews are positive. A reviewer named Jenny expresses frustration with the high cost of living in Alexandria, stating that "rent and housing prices are through the roof." She also mentions that traffic can be a major issue in the area. Similarly, another user named David notes that the city can feel "overcrowded and chaotic" at times, especially during peak tourist seasons. Despite these challenges, many individuals still find Alexandria to be a great place to live, with amenities and opportunities worth the cost.

 based on 49 Reviews
Get to know Alexandria with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Alexandria

Northern Virginia is a great place for living - 10/8/2009
We have lived in Alexandria, VA for over 10 years. We have 2 boys and one girl.
In general the DC area is a great place for living but the cost of living is relatively high compared to most of other areas in the US.
There always so much to do and places to go including museums, parks, artistic and cultural events, so many international restaurants, shopping places, sports, etc.
However, traffic is something that is getting worse and worse so it is taking longer to get to any place especially during rush hours and weekends.
We are pretty happy living here but we are considering moving to Austin or Fort Worth because of the cost of livng. We know that we would miss so much culture and recration in this area.Read More

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Great dog parks! - 8/8/2009
I've lived in Alexandria for the last six years and I must say that the dog-friendly nature of this area, especially Del Ray, is a major plus. My commute is horrible and the housing prices are steep. People are a little distant and hard to get to know, but having a dog is great! Tons of dog parks and many of the stores are dog-friendly, Read More

I love the location! - 7/16/2009
I have lived in northern VA for the past ten years. Moving to Alexandria three years ago has been the best decision I could have ever made. I initially moved to Alexandria so that my daughter could start school in Fairfax County school district versus Prince William County- wonderful choice. Also, because I work in Springfield I no longer have to sit in traffic everyday going to and from work. My commute is against the flow of traffic so no matter what time or day I leave work my travel time is the same. A big plus is the Metro. Using the Metro to travel to and from DC is so much easier than the hassle of traffic and parking (not to mention a whole lot cheaper). The cost of living in Alexandria, VA versus say Stafford, Dumfries, Woodbridge/Prince William County (where I lived previously) is worth Read More

quality of life - 5/30/2009
Fine place to live, but Read More

Biking and hiking trails - 4/14/2009
This area has the most biking and hiking trails of any city I've ever lived Read More

Alexandria - 4/6/2009
Hi, I came to the U.S. 3 years ago and i setteled my living here in alexandria. I have a job that pays me $10 an hr. but i couldn't afford the living. I have room mates but i pay $500 rent (with out the grocery expence). I wanted to go to college but i have to work full time to cover my expense. Life here is expensive. Now i am planning to move to Raliegh,NC. What do you suggest Read More

Live and work here - 3/3/2009
Alexandria is a wonderful place to live IF you live and work in the actual city of Alexandria. The DC metro area has terrible traffic so if you move here, don't make the mistake of getting a house in one neighborhood and trying to commute to another. Even Alexandria to Tysons Corner can be 45 minutes one way. Alexandria city has a couple of great neighborhoods, too. Del Ray is progressive and family focused. Crystal City is more apartment-living and busy with hotels and restaurants. Old Town is historic, more expensive, and Read More

Bit too much for me - 6/20/2008
When I move to the DC area 8 years ago, it was very exciting for a single person. Since then, I've gotten married and have a child. The long work hour and long commute for my husband are just too much any more. There are too many people and the quality of life is not what I'd Read More

An exciting place to live - 5/14/2008
Alexandria is an incredible place to live. It is close enough in to Washington DC to minimize the regional traffic congestion and still enjoy the culture of the world's capitol. The economy has always been booming. Shopping, cultural activities, world-class restaurants, all abound. This is a very high energy, yet mid-size city. It is expensive, housing is outrageously pricey, but incomes are high. Once into a home, life is a constant adventure, full of excitement. The city appeals to all age groups. Lots of singles, a diverse population, probably not the best choice for raising a Read More

Great place to live for those who like suburbia wi - 4/21/2008
Alexandria offers a number of perks for those who prefer to be a bit out of the city while still maintaining easy access into DC. It is also an established city in it's own right and offers a number of area to become involved within the community for those who desire it. Downsides are that housing is pricey, close to DC which can be a drawback for those not in love with politics, and many areas are lacking in that close neighborhood community feeling that you find in other Read More

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