2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Bethesda, MD vs Alexandria, VA

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Highlights
Are people in Alexandria older or younger than people in Bethesda?
- The Median Age in Alexandria is 5.9 years younger than in Bethesda.

Are housing costs cheaper in Alexandria or Bethesda?
- Alexandria housing costs are 44.9% less expensive than Bethesda housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Alexandria or Bethesda?
- The average commute for residents of Alexandria is 2.5 minutes longer than it is for residents of Bethesda.

Things to do in Bethesda?
Bethesda, Maryland is an incredible city located just northwest of Washington D.C. This beautiful city offers plenty for visitors to explore such as the stunning Glen Echo Park or the charming Cabin John Regional Park. Residents here also take advantage of all the outdoor activities available at Acorn Urban Park, Little Falls Creek Stream Valley, and Capital Crescent Trail. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and numerous recreational opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Bethesda their home.

Things to do in Alexandria?
Alexandria, Virginia is a vibrant city located just outside of Washington, D.C. Home to many historical and cultural attractions such as the George Washington Masonic National Memorial and the Friendship Firehouse Museum, visitors can explore history and culture when visiting Alexandria. There are also plenty of outdoor attractions such as Grist Mill Park and Jones Point Park where visitors can explore nature at its finest. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Alexandria has something for everyone!

 Bethesda, MDAlexandria, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock158,185329,725,481
 Median Income$178,370  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$1,072,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time29.3  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Bethesda    12 Reviews

Bethesda is awesome if you want to live near DC and in a relatively safe city that has few parking issues. Montgomery county has parking lots in downtown Bethesda and  More

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Amenities are plentiful, but costs continue to rise as do local and state taxes. Overall not a friendly place to  More

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Essentially an upscale suburb of Washington DC. Public transport is easy, there's plenty to do (though with none of the edginess of living closer in DC) and it's minutes  More

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Reviews for Alexandria    49 Reviews

Old Town Alexandria is a charming port city, with lovely historic homes, fun restaurants and sweet shops. Its easy proximity to the hustle and bustle of DC offer  More

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Alexandria is different depending on what part of it you are in. There is a huge strata of rich and poor, with a few middle class neighborhoods in between. Old town is  More

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The mailing address in this area is Alexandria, or Engleside. Either way, it's SE Fairfax County between Fort Belvoir and Mount Vernon. The neighborhood has been here  More

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