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<p><b>Alexandria</b> is an <a href="/pages/w/231585693545234">independent city</a> in the <a href="/pages/w/113450242036931">Commonwealth</a> of <a href="/pages/w/109564639069465">Virginia</a> in the <a href="/pages/w/112463092102121">United States</a>. As of the <a href="/pages/w/104097652960274">2010 census</a>, the population was 139,966, and in 2016, the population was estimated to be 155,810. Located along the western bank of the <a href="/pages/w/112648718748348">Potomac River</a>, Alexandria is approximately 7mi south of <a href="/pages/w/155056744530977">downtown Washington, D.C.</a></p><p>Like the rest of <a href="/pages/w/109397572411200">Northern Virginia</a>, as well as <a href="/pages/w/106606096045929">Central Maryland</a>, modern Alexandria has been influenced by its proximity to the U.S. capital. It is largely populated by professionals working in the federal civil service, in the U.S. military, or for one of the many private companies which contract to provide services to the federal government. One of Alexandria's largest employers is the <a href="/pages/w/112230472127196">U.S. Department of Defense</a>. Another is the <a href="/pages/w/109327762418645">Institute for Defense Analyses</a>. In 2005, the <a href="/pages/w/108611425830175">United States Patent and Trademark Office</a> moved to Alexandria.</p><p>The historic center of Alexandria is known as "Old Town". With its concentration of boutiques, restaurants, <a href="/pages/w/116098685071411">antique shop</a>s and theaters, it is a major draw for all who live in Alexandria as well for visitors. Like Old Town, many Alexandria neighborhoods are compact and walkable. It is the 7th largest and highest-income independent city in Virginia.</p>