Planning on moving to Washington DC? You’re not alone! More than 6,969 people moved to the Capital of the World in 2023, which is 150% more than in 2019. With this growth, the city’s population has hit 686,995 in 2024.
The city is home to 16 Fortune 500 companies. With median household income of $1111,000, Washington DC holds solid job opportunities and financial stability. Globally recognized as a center for politics, history, and culture — with iconic landmarks like the White House — DC connects residents to rich heritage.
3 Reasons to Move to Washington DC
Washington DC is one of the favorite relocation destinations for Americans. Here are 3 reasons to move to DC.
| # | Reasons to Move to DC | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Healthcare | Washington DC has a population health score of 86, which is among the highest in the nation. |
| 2. | Employment | The Capital of the World aims to create 46,954 new jobs by the end of 2032. |
| 3. | Education | DC serves over 50,971 students across 1 school district. |
1. Top-Notch Healthcare
Washington, D.C. has a population health score of 86, ranking among the highest in the nation. DC also ranks among the top states in healthcare spending per capita, with $16,803 spent per resident. Inova Fairfax Hospital and MedStar Washington Hospital Center are recognized as the top hospitals in the city.
Furthermore, nearly all residents in Washington, D.C., have health insurance, with only 3.67% uninsured. This achievement is supported by programs like DC Healthy Families, Medicaid, and the Health Care Alliance.
2. Employment Opportunities
DC’s robust economy offers various employment opportunities across several industries. The Capital of the World aims to add 46,954 new jobs by the end of 2032.
- Healthcare and Social Assistance: This sector is set to expand by 10.11% by 2032. Ambulatory Healthcare Services, and Nursing and Residential Facilities are leading the way, with growth rates of 10% and 17%, respectively. Unity Health Care and CrossFit are among the top employers in the region.
- Accommodation and Food Services: This sector is projected to grow by 25.05%, creating 14,823 new jobs by 2032. American Gaming Association and Cruise Lines International Association are among the top employers in the sector.
- Professional and Technical Services: This sector is projected to grow by 7.39%. Legal Services is expected to add 1,781 new roles, while Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services will contribute 3,142 new jobs. Wiley Rein LLP and Steptoe & Johnson are among the top employers in the field.
- Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation: This sector is also projected to grow by 16.67% adding 1,419 new jobs by the end of 2032. Major employers include National Public Radio, National Geographic, and The Washington Post.
3. Excellent Education System
Washington DC serves over 50,971 students across 1 school district. The city provides multiple schooling options including:
- Public Schools: The city has 116 public schools known for their academic excellence. Hyde-Addison and School Without Walls High School are among the top public schools in the region.
- Magnet and Charter Programs: With over 115 charter schools, DC provides specialized programs in STEM and arts, tuition-free. Digital Pioneers Academy and Washington Yu Ying PCS are among the best schools in the city.
- Private Schools: DC is home to over 108 private schools. The average tuition for private schools is around $28,081 annually. The top-ranked private schools in DC include Georgetown Day School and National Cathedral School.
- Higher Education: Washington, DC, is the most educated metropolitan area in the country. It boasts 8 top-ranking universities, including Georgetown University, George Washington University, and Howard University.
Cost of Moving to Washington DC 💲
There are additional costs involved in moving from one state to another. Here’s a breakdown of costs you may incur while relocating to DC:
1. Moving Costs ≈ $293 to $2,775
Moving to Washington DC involves several costs, including the costs involved in moving your belongings.
- Washington DC movers typically cost $85. However, this figure depends entirely on your belongings and the distance traveled.
- If you want to DIY your move, renting a truck can be a better option. The average rent of a mid-size moving truck with a load capacity of 4,000-6,000 pounds ranges between $40 and $80 per day.
- 👉 Tip: Moving can be expensive, especially if you are selling your home before you move. In this case, you can use a Flat Fee MLS company to save on listing agent commissions. This way, you can have additional cash when you move to Washington DC.
2. Utility Expenses ≈ $400 to $500 Per Month
Apart from moving and housing costs, you will have to incur utility expenses when migrating to Washington DC.
- When relocating to Washington DC, you must set up utilities like gas, electricity, water, etc. The average cost of utilities in DC is around $334/month.
- You will have to register your vehicle in Washington DC. The first-time registration cost of a passenger vehicle in DC can start at $36. A standard title fee costs $26.
3. Housing Costs
Housing costs in the Capital of the World can vary depending on your location.
- In popular cities like Georgetown, Dupont Circle, and Capitol Hill, the average rent ranges between $1,000 and $2,500.
- However, if you are planning to buy, make sure you find cheap houses for sale in Washington DC in your budget. Cities like Spring Valley have a median home price of $2.5M. On the other hand, the average cost of a home in small cities like Foggy Bottom is $395K.
4 Tips for a Seamless Move to Washington DC ✅
Moving to a new place can be tough. Here are some tips to help you make a smooth transition.
- Research Cities and Neighborhoods: It’s important to research the area you want to live in. You must know if your home is in the city or suburbs. Find out where the nearby schools, hospitals, coffee shops, or restaurants are.
- Find the Living Costs: Your living costs will change once you migrate. Before moving to DC, get an estimate of the basic living expenses in your desired location.
- Visit the Neighborhood: Once you’ve decided where you want to live. You must visit that Washington DC neighborhood in person and see what you feel about the area.
- Meet Your Neighbors: Connect with your neighbors and socialize. Local Facebook groups can be the best way to meet your neighbors.
