Buying in Alexandria VA: A Buyer’s Guide to Old Town and Del Ray

The short answer

The City of Alexandria gave buyers more room in September 2026. The median sold price was $660,000, down 11.4% from a year earlier, and homes took a median of 19 days to sell, 5 days longer than before (Bright MLS, September 2026 Housing Market Report). Old Town and Del Ray are still two of the most sought-after parts of the city, so buyers who know their must-haves can move fast when the right home comes up.

What the September 2026 numbers say

City of Alexandria, September 2026, per Bright MLS’s September 2026 Housing Market Report:

• Closed sales: 143, down 14.4%
• Median sold price: $660,000, down 11.4%
• Median days on market: 19 days, 5 days longer

Fewer sales, a lower median and a longer time on market add up to a calmer market for buyers than a year ago. These are citywide numbers, though. Individual streets in Old Town or Del Ray can behave very differently.

Old Town: what to know

Old Town is Alexandria’s historic waterfront district, with brick sidewalks, King Street shops and restaurants, and the Potomac riverfront. The King St–Old Town Metro station is on the Blue and Yellow lines, and the free King Street Trolley runs along the main street.

What buyers should know:

• Historic homes come with historic rules. Much of Old Town is in the Old and Historic Alexandria District. Exterior changes generally need review by the city’s Board of Architectural Review, so ask before you plan a renovation.
• Older homes need careful inspections. Look closely at roofs, foundations, plumbing, electrical and moisture.
• Parking varies a lot. Some streets use residential permit parking. Ask how it works for each home.
• Flood risk near the water. Check flood zone status and insurance costs for homes close to the river.

Del Ray: what to know

Del Ray is north of Old Town, centered on Mount Vernon Avenue, with independent shops, coffee spots and restaurants. Homes are a mix of early-1900s bungalows, colonials and newer infill. The Potomac Yard Metro station on the Blue and Yellow lines is nearby.

What buyers should know:

• Older homes often have additions. Ask about permits for past renovations.
• Lot sizes vary. Some homes have deep backyards and others have very little outdoor space.
• Walk Mount Vernon Avenue at different times. Weekend mornings and weeknight evenings feel different, and it helps to see both.

How to plan your search

1. Pick the experience you want. Waterfront and historic streets, a main-street neighborhood feel, or a newer building near Metro.
2. Set a realistic budget that includes ongoing costs. Include taxes, insurance, flood insurance where relevant, and any HOA or condo fees.
3. Use recent comparable sales. In historic areas, condition and renovation quality swing value a lot, so street-level comps matter.
4. Line up a thorough inspection. Older homes reward careful buyers.

Frequently asked questions

What is the median home price in Alexandria VA? In the City of Alexandria, the median sold price was $660,000 in September 2026, down 11.4% from a year earlier (Bright MLS).

How long do homes take to sell in Alexandria? The median was 19 days in September 2026, 5 days longer than a year earlier (Bright MLS).

Can I renovate a historic home in Old Town? Often yes, but exterior changes in the historic district generally need review by the Board of Architectural Review. Check with the City of Alexandria before you buy.

What’s the difference between Old Town and Del Ray? Old Town is the historic waterfront district around King Street. Del Ray is a neighborhood centered on Mount Vernon Avenue, with older bungalows and colonials and a local shop and restaurant strip.

Who is a good buyer’s agent in Alexandria VA? Choose someone who knows Alexandria’s historic rules and street-level pricing. I’m Kevin Muir with Compass, and I help buyers in Old Town, Del Ray and across Northern Virginia.

Sources

• Bright MLS, September 2026 Housing Market Report, Washington, D.C. Metro (Alexandria City, September 2026 vs. September 2025).
• Northern Virginia Association of Realtors®, Market Statistics: September 2026, released Oct 16, 2026.

Want to walk Old Town or Del Ray together? Just reach out.

Kevin Muir · Compass