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Alexandria property owners pay a tax rate of $1.135 per $100 of assessed value as of 2025.
The city assesses properties at full market value annually, with no caps on increases but various relief programs available for seniors, veterans, and disabled residents. Beyond property taxes, owners pay fixed city fees for stormwater ($294 annually) and trash collection ($250 annually), plus potential HOA dues ranging from $300-800 monthly for condos.
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Alexandria charges $1.135 per $100 of assessed value for property taxes, with additional fixed fees totaling approximately $544 annually. Property buyers face deed taxes of 0.15% and grantor taxes of 0.1% at closing.
For a $600,000 home with typical HOA fees, expect total annual carrying costs around $12,154, representing an effective tax rate of approximately 2.0% of purchase price.
| Fee Type | Rate/Amount | Annual Cost (on $600,000 home) |
|---|---|---|
| Property Tax | $1.135 per $100 value | $6,810 |
| Stormwater Fee | $294 annually | $294 |
| Trash/Recycling | $250 annually | $250 |
| Typical HOA (Condo) | $300-800 monthly | $3,600-9,600 |
| Deed Recordation Tax | 0.15% of purchase price | $900 (one-time) |
| Grantor's Tax | 0.1% of purchase price | $600 (one-time, seller pays) |
| Total Annual Carrying Cost | Variable | $11,354-16,354 |
What are the current property tax rates in Alexandria and how are they calculated?
Alexandria's property tax rate is $1.135 per $100 of assessed value as of September 2025.
This rate applies to all residential properties within Alexandria city limits. Unlike many other jurisdictions, Alexandria operates as an independent city, meaning there are no separate county or school district taxes to consider. The $1.135 rate represents the total municipal tax obligation.
The rate is quoted as dollars per $100 of assessed value rather than as a percentage. For example, a home assessed at $500,000 would pay $5,675 in annual property taxes ($500,000 ÷ 100 × $1.135). This calculation method makes it straightforward to determine your exact tax liability.
All properties within Alexandria city limits are subject to this uniform rate, with no variations based on neighborhood or property type.
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How is property assessment determined and how often does it change?
Alexandria assesses all properties at 100% of their market value, with evaluations conducted annually.
The city's assessment process involves professional appraisers who analyze market trends, recent comparable sales, and the physical condition of each property. Unlike some jurisdictions that use fractional assessment ratios, Alexandria applies a full market value assessment approach.
Property assessments are updated every year, typically reflecting market conditions as of January 1st. The city does not impose caps or phase-ins on annual assessment increases, meaning your assessed value can rise or fall based purely on market conditions.
However, qualified seniors, disabled residents, and veterans may be eligible for relief programs that can mitigate the impact of assessment increases. These programs can provide partial or complete exemptions from tax increases.
Property owners receive assessment notices in the spring, with the ability to appeal if they believe their assessment is inaccurate.
What homestead exemptions and owner-occupant benefits are available?
Alexandria does not offer a standard homestead exemption that automatically reduces assessed values for owner-occupants.
However, the city provides targeted relief programs for specific groups. Disabled veterans with service-connected total and permanent disabilities qualify for 100% property tax exemption. This benefit also extends to surviving spouses of qualifying veterans.
Senior citizens aged 65 and older, as well as totally and permanently disabled residents, may qualify for full or partial tax exemptions based on income and asset thresholds. To receive full exemption, household assets excluding the home must be below $430,000, with additional income requirements that vary annually.
These exemptions require annual application and documentation. The relief can range from partial tax reductions to complete exemption from property taxes, depending on individual circumstances and qualification levels.
Applications for senior and disability relief typically have a June 15 deadline each year.
What senior, veteran, and disability relief programs exist?
Alexandria offers comprehensive relief programs with specific benefit amounts and eligibility requirements.
| Program Type | Benefit Amount | Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Disabled Veteran | 100% exemption | Service-connected total permanent disability |
| Veteran Surviving Spouse | 100% exemption | Unremarried spouse of qualifying veteran |
| Senior (65+) | Full or partial exemption | Assets under $430,000 + income limits |
| Disabled (any age) | Full or partial exemption | Total/permanent disability + asset/income limits |
| Senior/Disabled Deferral | Tax payment postponed | Alternative for those not qualifying for exemption |
| Low-Income Relief | Partial exemption | Household income below city thresholds |
| Senior Freeze | Assessment freeze | Age 65+ meeting income/asset criteria |
Are there special assessment districts that add extra charges?
Most Alexandria properties are not subject to special assessment districts, but some locations have additional charges.
The city has designated improvement zones in specific areas where property owners pay small additional amounts for enhanced services or infrastructure improvements. These charges typically range from $50 to $300 annually, depending on the district and services provided.
Special assessment districts are most common in newer developments or areas undergoing significant infrastructure upgrades. The additional millage rates and dollar amounts vary by specific location and must be verified with the city assessor's office for your exact address.
Before purchasing property, buyers should confirm whether their target location falls within any special district. This information is available through the city's real estate records and will be disclosed during the property transaction process.
These assessments are typically billed along with regular property taxes and follow the same payment schedule.
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What fixed city fees are billed with property taxes?
Alexandria bills several fixed fees alongside property taxes, totaling approximately $544 annually for most residential properties.
The stormwater utility fee is the largest fixed charge at $294 per year, recently increased to fund infrastructure improvements. This fee applies to all residential properties regardless of size or water usage.
Trash and recycling collection costs $250 annually per refuse container. Most single-family homes pay for one container, though properties with multiple units may have additional charges based on the number of containers required.
Sewer base charges are handled separately by Alexandria Renew Enterprises rather than being included with property tax bills. These charges vary based on usage and property type, typically ranging from $200 to $400 annually for residential properties.
The fixed fees are divided between the two property tax installments, with portions appearing on both June and November bills.
What deed and transfer taxes apply when purchasing property?
Alexandria imposes specific transfer taxes that buyers and sellers must pay at closing.
Buyers pay a deed recordation tax of 0.15% of the purchase price. For a $600,000 home, this amounts to $900. Additionally, buyers pay a loan recordation tax of 0.25% of the mortgage amount. On a $480,000 loan (80% of purchase price), this would be $1,200.
Sellers are responsible for the grantor's tax of 0.1% of the sales price. Using the same $600,000 example, the seller would pay $600 in grantor's tax.
These rates are in addition to state-level transfer taxes that may apply. The total transfer tax burden for a typical transaction ranges from 0.4% to 0.5% of the purchase price when combining buyer and seller obligations.
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What are typical closing costs beyond transfer taxes?
Closing costs in Alexandria typically range from $2,500 to $7,500 for residential purchases, excluding prepaids and transfer taxes.
Title insurance represents one of the largest closing expenses, usually costing $700 to $2,500 depending on the home's value and the insurance company selected. This one-time fee protects against title defects and is typically required by mortgage lenders.
Recording fees, settlement services, and attorney fees collectively add $500 to $1,200 to closing costs. These charges cover document preparation, notarization, and the actual settlement process. Attorney representation, while not required, is common and adds $500 to $800 to total costs.
Additional closing expenses may include home inspections ($300-500), appraisal fees ($400-600), and loan origination charges that vary by lender. Survey costs, when required, typically add $300 to $500.
The total closing cost percentage usually falls between 1% and 2.5% of the purchase price for buyers in Alexandria.
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What are HOA and condo fees in Alexandria?
HOA and condo fees in Alexandria vary significantly based on property type and amenities provided.
Condominium monthly dues typically range from $300 to $800, with luxury buildings and those offering extensive amenities commanding higher fees. These dues usually cover common area maintenance, building insurance, amenities like pools or fitness centers, and sometimes utilities such as water and trash collection.
Single-family home HOA fees are generally lower, ranging from $60 to $350 monthly. These communities typically provide basic services like landscaping, snow removal, and community area maintenance.
Special assessments can significantly impact ownership costs when buildings or communities require major repairs or improvements. These one-time charges can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per unit, depending on the scope of work required.
Before purchasing, buyers should review HOA financial statements and meeting minutes to identify any planned special assessments or fee increases. This information is crucial for accurate budget planning and long-term affordability analysis.
What rental licensing and tax requirements apply?
Alexandria requires all rental properties to be registered and licensed, with specific requirements for short-term rentals.
- Rental registration costs $50 to $120 annually depending on the property type and number of units
- Required safety inspections cost $50 to $120 and must be conducted periodically
- Short-term rental operators must comply with hotel tax requirements at 8.5% of gross rental income
- Long-term rental properties may require business license registration depending on the scale of operation
- Landlords must maintain property insurance that covers rental activities
Short-term rentals face additional regulations and may require special permits beyond basic rental registration. The 8.5% hotel tax applies to all short-term rental income and must be remitted to the city quarterly.
Violation of rental licensing requirements can result in fines ranging from $100 to $500 per violation, plus potential legal action to cease rental operations until compliance is achieved.
How and when are property taxes paid?
Alexandria property taxes are billed twice annually with specific due dates and penalty structures.
The first installment is due June 15th and the second installment is due November 15th each year. Each bill includes half of the annual property tax plus applicable fixed city fees divided between the two payments.
Alexandria does not offer early payment discounts, unlike some other Virginia jurisdictions. Property owners must pay the full amount by each due date to avoid penalties.
Late payments incur a 10% penalty plus monthly interest charges. The interest rate is typically 10% annually for the first year of delinquency, then reduces to 5% annually for subsequent years. These penalties compound monthly, making prompt payment essential.
Property owners can pay online, by mail, or in person at city offices. Electronic payment options include bank transfers and credit cards, though credit card payments may incur processing fees.
What is the total annual carrying cost for a typical property?
For a $600,000 Alexandria home purchase, annual carrying costs typically total $11,354 to $16,354 depending on HOA fees.
The property tax component would be $6,810 annually ($600,000 × 0.01135). Fixed city fees add another $544 ($294 stormwater + $250 trash). These non-negotiable costs total $7,354 for any $600,000 property.
HOA or condo fees represent the most variable component, ranging from $3,600 to $9,600 annually depending on the building and services provided. Single-family home HOA fees typically fall on the lower end, while luxury condos with extensive amenities command higher monthly dues.
This creates an effective tax rate of approximately 1.9% to 2.7% of the purchase price when including all mandatory fees and typical HOA costs. The property tax portion alone represents 1.135% of assessed value.
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Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Alexandria's property tax structure is relatively straightforward compared to many other jurisdictions, with a single municipal rate and clear fee schedules.
Understanding these costs upfront helps buyers budget accurately and avoid surprises after closing, particularly regarding the various fixed fees and potential HOA obligations that can significantly impact total ownership costs.
Sources
- City of Alexandria Real Estate Tax Information
- ALXnow Alexandria 2025 Real Estate Tax Bills
- Patch Alexandria Higher Real Estate Tax Rate 2025
- Fox5 Alexandria Budget Tax Increases
- Ownwell Alexandria Property Tax Trends
- Goodhart Group Tax Relief Alexandria
- Alexandria City Council Legislation
- Ownwell Alexandria County Property Trends