Charlotte, NC vs Alexandria, VA: 108 vs 173

$1,504/mo ↓ 26%

Median Rent

$2,031/mo ↑ 35%

$78,438/yr ↓ 31%

Median Income

$113,638/yr ↑ 45%

$351,500 ↓ 50%

Home Value

$696,800 ↑ 98%

$1,487/mo ↓ 32%

Owner Costs

$2,173/mo ↑ 46%

886,283

Population

156,788

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Charlotte, NC and Alexandria, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 108 and 173 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $527/month cheaper in Charlotte, saving renters about $6,324/year.

Median household income is $35,200/year higher in Alexandria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Charlotte is $351,500 compared to $696,800 in Alexandria.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Charlotte slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Charlotte vs Alexandria — common questions

Is Charlotte or Alexandria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Charlotte is cheaper to live in with an index of 108 compared to 173 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Charlotte and Alexandria?

Median rent in Charlotte is $1,504/month and in Alexandria it's $2,031/month — a difference of $527/month.

Which city has higher income, Charlotte or Alexandria?

Median household income is $78,438 in Charlotte and $113,638 in Alexandria. Median household income is $35,200/year higher in Alexandria.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Virginia?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Charlotte or Alexandria?

It depends on your priorities. Charlotte has a cost index of 108 with median rent of $1,504/mo, while Alexandria has a cost index of 173 with rent of $2,031/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Charlotte, NC vs Alexandria, VA (2026)

Charlotte

Alexandria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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