Alexandria: The Data Profile (2026)

Alexandria, Louisiana, represents a distinct economic microclimate in the post-remote work era. With a population of 44,566, it functions as a regional hub rather than a sprawling metropolis. The primary statistical friction point for relocators is the significant income compression; the median household income stands at $47,357, which is -36.5% below the national median of $74,580. However, this is counterbalanced by a localized workforce that is less reliant on coastal industry standards. Only 24.2% of the population holds a bachelor's degree or higher, significantly lower than the US average of 33.1%, suggesting a labor market focused on trade, healthcare, and regional services rather than tech or high-finance.

The target demographic for Alexandria in 2026 is the "Geo-Arbitrage Remote Worker." This profile fits individuals earning a national-average salary who can leverage the city's housing index—56.1, or -43.9% below the US average—to maximize disposable income. It is also viable for local hires in the medical and education sectors, provided they manage the higher-than-average health risk factors prevalent in the region.

Cost of Living Analysis

The cost of living (COL) index in Alexandria is heavily weighted by housing affordability. While groceries and transportation align closely with national averages at 92.0, the housing index is an outlier at 56.1. This creates a unique financial environment where fixed costs are low, but income potential is capped. Electricity rates are a notable advantage, sitting at 11.73 cents/kWh, significantly lower than the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh, reducing the burden of climate control costs.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis

For a single earner making the median income of $47,357 (approx. $3,100 monthly after tax), the monthly COL of $1,984 leaves a disposable income of roughly $1,116. This is higher than the national average for median earners. For a remote worker earning the US median of $74,580 (approx. $4,700 monthly after tax), the disposable income surplus exceeds $2,700, offering significant financial flexibility.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market is the city's primary value proposition. Buying is exceptionally accessible compared to national metrics. The median home price is estimated at $185,000, roughly $115,000 below the national median. Price per square foot is $110, a -45% discount to the US average. Renting is equally affordable, with 1-bedroom units averaging $757 and 3-bedroom units at $1,343.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Buy vs. Rent Relative to National Curve

Buying is statistically superior in Alexandria due to the low entry price and high rent-to-price ratio. The monthly mortgage payment on a median home (assuming 20% down and 6.5% interest) is approximately $935, which is comparable to the cost of renting a 1-bedroom unit. However, buying locks in a low cost basis that is -45% below the national curve. For a remote worker, buying offers equity accumulation while maintaining a low overhead.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

Alexandria's economy is insulated but stable. The unemployment rate is 4.3%, hovering just above the national average of 4.0%. In the post-remote landscape, the city has seen a stabilization in "brain drain" as local industries (healthcare, education, manufacturing) retain workers. However, the -36.5% income disparity remains a hurdle for local hires.

RTO Impact: While national RTO mandates have increased congestion in major metros, Alexandria’s traffic remains minimal. The average commute time is under 20 minutes, regardless of location. For remote workers, the lack of traffic pressure reduces the "commute tax" on mental health. The local industry is dominated by the Rapides Regional Medical Center and England Air Park, providing stability against national economic volatility.

Quality of Life Audit

The Quality of Life (QoL) data for Alexandria presents a complex picture. While the cost of living is excellent, health metrics lag significantly behind national averages. The city holds a Health Score of 72.7/100, categorized as "Fair," but underlying risk factors are high. The obesity rate is 44.3% (vs US 31.9%), and the diabetes rate is 19.1% (vs US 10.9%). Smoking rates are also elevated at 20.8%.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety & Environment

• Violent Crime: 4.5 per 1,000 residents (National Avg: 3.8). This is roughly 18% higher than the national median.
• Property Crime: 22.1 per 1,000 residents (National Avg: 19.5). This is roughly 13% higher than the national median.
• Air Quality: Alexandria boasts excellent air quality with an AQI of 45 and PM2.5 levels of 7.5 µg/m³, well below health risk thresholds.
• Schools: The parish school system scores an average of 5/10 on rating platforms; private schooling is a common option for expats.
• Weather: Currently 61.0°F with highs of 64°F and lows of 32°F. The climate is humid subtropical, offering hot summers and mild winters.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Housing Value: The housing index of 56.1 is the strongest data point, offering a -43.9% discount to the national average.
• Utilities & Services: Electricity at 11.73 cents/kWh and healthcare at index 75.6 provide significant monthly savings.
• Commute: Average commute is under 20 minutes, eliminating traffic stress.

Cons:

• Health Risks: High prevalence of obesity (44.3%) and diabetes (19.1%) suggests a challenging environment for maintaining healthy lifestyle habits without strict personal discipline.
• Income Ceiling: Median income of $47,357 is -36.5% below the US average, making upward mobility difficult for local hires.
• Crime: Violent crime is 18% above the national average.

Recommendation:
Alexandria is a Buy for Remote Workers and a Hold for Local Hires. If you earn a salary of $65,000+ (remote), Alexandria offers a top-tier financial lifestyle. If you are moving for a local job paying the median of $47,357, the low housing costs make it survivable, but wealth accumulation will be slow.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed to live comfortably in Alexandria?
To live comfortably (saving 20%, owning a home, and dining out), a single person needs approximately $55,000. A family of four needs $85,000. This is significantly lower than the national requirement due to the 56.1 housing index.

2. How does the value compare to other Louisiana cities?
Alexandria offers better housing value than Baton Rouge (Index 95) or Shreveport (Index 88), though it has a smaller population of 44,566 and fewer cultural amenities.

3. Are the safety statistics accurate?
Yes. The data indicates a violent crime rate of 4.5 per 1,000. While higher than the national average, it is concentrated in specific pockets. Researching specific zip codes is recommended.

4. Is now a good time to buy?
With interest rates hovering around 6.5% and home prices stable at a median of $185,000, it is an opportune time to buy before potential rate cuts drive prices up. The low electricity cost (11.73 cents) also buffers against inflation.