Providence, RI vs Alexandria, VA: 99 vs 173

$1,333/mo ↓ 34%

Median Rent

$2,031/mo ↑ 52%

$66,772/yr ↓ 41%

Median Income

$113,638/yr ↑ 70%

$322,800 ↓ 54%

Home Value

$696,800 ↑ 116%

$1,467/mo ↓ 32%

Owner Costs

$2,173/mo ↑ 48%

190,214

Population

156,788

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Alexandria, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 173 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $698/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $8,376/year.

Median household income is $46,866/year higher in Alexandria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $696,800 in Alexandria.

Virginia has a lower income tax rate, making Alexandria slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Alexandria — common questions

Is Providence or Alexandria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 173 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Providence and Alexandria?

Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Alexandria it's $2,031/month — a difference of $698/month.

Which city has higher income, Providence or Alexandria?

Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $113,638 in Alexandria. Median household income is $46,866/year higher in Alexandria.

How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and Virginia?

Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Providence or Alexandria?

It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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: Providence, RI vs Alexandria, VA (2026)

Providence

Alexandria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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