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Cost of Living in Alexandria

Is it better to rent or buy in Alexandria? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$60,595
$980/mo

Median in area: $980

$174,810

Median in area: $174,810

$34,962

If you Rent

🔑
$1,198 /mo
Base Rent$980
Est. Utilities$218
% of Income23.7%
Pre-tax Residual$3,852

If you Buy

🏠
$1,238 /mo
P&I (6.5%)$884
Taxes & Ins$136
Est. Utilities$218
% of Income24.5%
Pre-tax Residual$3,812

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Alexandria?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Alexandria. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,198, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,238 per month (a difference of $40).

How much do utilities cost in Alexandria?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Alexandria is approximately $218. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Alexandria?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Alexandria without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $47,920 per year.