I don't have a lot of knowledge about the DC Metro area, but I can say that I've spent a lot of time in Alexandria, and it's a great area. The metro there gets you anywhere fairly quickly (Josh and I used it the last time we were there). I think it's pricy, but if you could find a bargain in the area I think you'd like living there. My uncle's building actually went co-op, so he's not renting anymore. He bought one co-op and his girlfriend bought the one next door. He's actually on the town committee for real estate (he's a commercial real estate lawyer), so if you have any questions on Alexandria, I could probably get you answers.