Bethesda is plenty expensive-- a compromise for all the people suggesting SS is you can look at Kensington-- if you're concerned about schools, choose a neighborhood feeding to BCC or WJ. |
|
I’ve lived in both. Old Town Alexandria is beautiful and the waterfront is nice to have.
Both have access to nature, trails, etc. Virginia has better colleges if that matters to you. You can find good schools in either area. Both are fairly snobby. |
Eh I dunno if Alexandria will be more expensive than Bethesda in 5-10 years, but do agree that it'll become more pricey. With the HQ2 rollout Alex houses may see the greatest % of appreciation in the DMV. |
+1. As expensive as Alexandria is, Bethesda is getting more expensive too. The appreciation over the past year has been insane. I wouldn’t be surprised if more HQ2 managers with families choose to live in Bethesda over Alexandria despite the commute. |
|
I live in Bethesda and like it and also like Alexandria. The main factor I’d consider is what the PP said re having a parent within easy drive of school/home
when kids are young. |
What are some of the top reasons that might compel then to make that choice? Change of scenery? |
|
Bethesda is at least 20% more expensive than Alexandria when controlling for house type / size. They are both desirable but that gap will probably always be there. You can't underestimate the value of high quality education.
|
| Live in VIrginia near Chain Bridge. Relatively easy access to work and cheaper taxes and much better college options. You’ll be there before you know it! |
|
It's kind of deceptive to say you live in Alexandria when you actually live down Rte. 1 near Mt. Vernon. Obviously some very nice neighborhoods down there near the river but it's a far cry from living in City of Alexandria. I do know that your postal address is called Alexandria but basically you live in FFX county and spending time in Old Town involves a trip.
I don't imagine many of these commenters are even familiar with that part of FFX county so it would be hard to compare it to Bethesda. |
You'll spend that tax money on gas and tolls... |
Funny I think of thev395/495 part of the beltway as the biggest nightmare and the toll lanes are so confusing...I avoid the area. Living in MD you can enjoy the Clara Barton Parkway into DC. |
| You're talking about Mt Vernon Alexandria? Then just do Bethesda for shorter commute, better schools, and less crime. |
What? What are you talking about? |
You both are clueless. |
Schools in Alexandria are terrible. |