Last Updated on August 23, 2024
Just across the Potomac River and a little south of Washington, D.C. is the rapidly growing city Alexandria. As with most cities within popular metropolitan areas, Alexandria offers its residents new and old a number of qualities and options only available within the city’s borders as well as the proximity to other amenities and attractions that come with big cities such as the nation’s capital.
So, are you considering moving here? Here are four quick things to know about life in Alexandria.
1. You’ll need to know Old Town
As with any city, Alexandria has a number of unique communities and areas to checkout and live in, and one of the most popular places to live and play here is Old town Alexandria. This historic area is home to beautiful rowhouses along cobblestone streets and more than 200 restaurants, shops, and more.
For instance, locals love hitting up the bar and enjoying some fried chicken at The Rub Chicken & Beer, sipping a cocktail over fancy southern cuisine at Magnolia’s On King, or grabbing brunch at The People’s Drug, all of which are within walking distance in Old Town.
2. Alexandria has plenty of history
For history buff, Alexandria is a treasure trove with a history that reaches back to the 18th century and plenty of landmarks to prove all that’s happened between then and now. An obvious must-see is the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, a nine-story memorial built in the 1920s. You can find off King Street, but in reality you’ll see it from nearly anywhere in the city.
For a different side of history, visit The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, which boats a massive collection of botanicals, hand-blown glass, and historic medical equipment as well as a large archive of historic texts. Many have said it feels like walking back in history once you step through the door.
3. Alexandria loves its art scene
Not only does Alexandria offer a historic charm, but it also loves new art, even welcoming you to join in a well. The number one spot to checkout is the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Founded in a 1974 while in an old munitions plant—also in Old Town along the Potomac Riverfront—this art center is now home to the country’s largest collection of working artists in on building.
Roughly half a million visitors check out the space each year and enjoy the galleries and studios. Plus, as much of the original art is reasonably priced, you can take some home with you.
4. Growth is in Alexandria, and it’s likely to continue
Alexandria is growing, and it’s growing a lot. In fact, last year was reported that Alexandria’s housing can barely keep up with the population growth. And it’s likely to grow more as Amazon.com is set to built its second headquarters in the city and Virginia Tech starts its $1 billion innovation campus in Potomac Yard.
One important thing to note about this population growth is that much of the growth is seen in apartments, with adding nearly 8,000 units in the past five years. With such popularity, space can come at a premium. In fact, the median home cost in Alexandria is more than double Virginia and United State averages, and apartments aren’t much cheaper either. A one-bedroom apartment in Alexandria is about $1700, that’s $700 more than the state average, and and nearly $800 more than national averages.
With housing costing so much, we’re happy to say we can help. A storage unit in Alexandria can help you get more space at your home, apartment, or business with less cost than buying or renting a larger area. Whether you’re moving in, maximizing space, or running a business, click here to learn more about how Alexandria self storage can help.
