Moving to Washington DC

In this post, we look at the most important aspects of living in Washington to help you decide if moving to Washington is the right move for you.

Top Neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., is home to more than 130 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, community, and atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for historic architecture, walkability, nightlife, or peace and quiet, there’s somewhere that’s right for you.

• Capitol Hill: One of the oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods in D.C., Capitol Hill features stunning row houses, leafy streets, and proximity to the U.S. Capitol and Eastern Market. It’s great for families and professionals who want charm and a strong sense of community.
• Dupont Circle: Ideal for young professionals, Dupont Circle offers a cosmopolitan feel with historic homes, embassies, art galleries, and a bustling nightlife. It’s well-connected by Metro and known for its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere.
• Navy Yard: Once an industrial zone, Navy Yard has become one of the most desirable waterfront communities in the city. Modern apartments, great restaurants, Nationals Park, and riverfront views make it a desirable place to live.
• Logan Circle: This centrally located neighborhood offers a blend of residential tranquility and urban sophistication with Victorian homes, boutique shopping, and vibrant restaurants.
• Tenleytown and AU Park: These neighborhoods in Northwest D.C. are family-friendly with excellent schools, green space, and a quieter suburban feel, all within reach of downtown.

For a comprehensive guide to the neighborhoods of Washington, visit www.washingtonian.com

You may also like to read: How to Choose the Best Neighborhood to Live In. In this guide, we suggest things to take into consideration when choosing a new area to live.

Renting and Buying a Home in DC

Living in D.C. can be expensive, especially compared to other parts of the country, but it comes with the advantages of city living and extensive public services.

• Renting: 1-Bedroom Apartment: Around $2,400/month in central neighborhoods; about $1,800–$2,000/month in outer areas. 2-Bedroom Apartment: Expect to pay between $2,800 and $3,500/month depending on location.
• Buying: Median Home Price: Approximately $650,000 in D.C. proper. Condominiums and Row Houses: Range from $400,000 to over $1 million based on location, size, and amenities.

While prices are high, the D.C. housing market is relatively stable and often sees steady appreciation, making it a reliable long-term investment.

To discover more comparisons of the cost of living in Washington, DC then visit www.numbeo.com

You may also like to read: How Much do Movers Cost in Washington? If you are looking to move within Washington, then you will find this guide invaluable.

The Best Schools in The Area

For families, school quality is a top priority, and D.C. offers a mix of public, charter, and private schools.

Public and Charter Schools

• School Without Walls High School: Ranked among the top public high schools in the nation, known for academic excellence and a partnership with George Washington University.
• BASIS DC Public Charter School: Offers a rigorous STEM-focused curriculum and high college acceptance rates.
• Janney Elementary (Tenleytown) and Lafayette Elementary (Chevy Chase) are consistently top-ranked for early education.

Private Schools

• Sidwell Friends School: Known for educating presidents’ children, it’s one of the most prestigious private schools in the U.S.
• Georgetown Day School and St. Albans School also provide exceptional academics and extracurricular opportunities.

There are numerous universities such as Georgetown, George Washington, American University, and Howard.

Compare the best schools in Washington, DC at www.niche.com

You may also like to read: How to Choose a Good School. In this guide, we suggest things to take into consideration when choosing a new school for your kids.

Jobs and Career Opportunities

While it’s known primarily as the seat of the U.S. government, the city offers opportunities across a wide range of sectors and has a strong job market.

Top Industries in D.C.

• Government & Public Policy: As you would expect, federal jobs are abundant. From the State Department to the Department of Justice, opportunities exist for people with backgrounds in law, international relations, and administration.
• Nonprofits & NGOs: D.C. is home to thousands of advocacy organizations, think tanks, and nonprofits working on everything from global health to education reform.
• Technology & Startups: The city’s tech scene is growing rapidly, with innovation hubs like NoMa and Navy Yard attracting startups and investors.
• Law & Consulting: Major Law firms and consulting agencies like Deloitte and Booz Allen Hamilton have large presences here.
• Healthcare & Education: With major universities and hospitals, there are also many openings in academia and healthcare professions.

Unemployment tends to be below the national average, and the average salary in D.C. is among the highest in the country, reflecting the city’s educated workforce and high cost of living.

Discover the best places to work in Washington at www.glassdoor.com  

You may also like to read: Relocating for Work. In this guide, we look at the pros and cons of moving for a new job.

Why Washington, D.C. Is a Great Place to Live

Here are 4 reasons why we think D.C. stands out from other major U.S. cities:

• Rich History and Culture: From the National Mall to the Smithsonian museums (which are free!), living in D.C. means you’re surrounded by some of the most iconic institutions and landmarks in the country. There’s always something to explore, whether it’s a new exhibit, a lecture, or a political demonstration.
• Diversity and Inclusivity:  D.C. is incredibly diverse, racially, ethnically, and culturally. Its diverse population creates a vibrant food scene and numerous international festivals.
• Public Transportation:  The Washington Metro and extensive bus network make getting around the city easy without a car. Walkability and bike-friendliness are also major pluses, especially in central neighborhoods.
• Green Spaces: With Rock Creek Park, the National Arboretum, and over 200 local parks, outdoor lovers will find plenty of places to hike, jog, bike, or just relax.

From budgeting to navigating the Metrorail, there is some invaluable information about living in Washington at www.resources.twc.edu  

You may also like to read: Moving to a New State. From checklists to moving tips, if you are relocating to a new state, then you will find this guide invaluable.

Should I Move to Washington, DC?

While the cost of living can be high, career growth, top-tier education, and quality of life make moving to Washington attractive for many.

Good luck with your move, and be sure to visit our home moving blog, which is packed with guides to make every aspect of your home move easier, cheaper, and safer.