Americans love DC! And why wouldn’t you? From a stable job market to efficient public transport, the Capital of the World has got it all.
5,460 people moved into District of Columbia in 2023, which is the highest since 2019. The state scores 94/100 in quality of life. For community culture and diversity, Petworth and Columbia Heights are some of the best areas to live in DC.
People are attracted to DC because of its location which allows them to access other major states like Maryland and Virginia. The state has a growing economy along with ample employment opportunities for students and young professionals.
📉 3 Reasons to Live in DC
- Growing Job Market Between September 2022-23, DC added 78,000 jobs, a 2.4% increase YoY.
- Great for Youngsters: Millennials make up 23% of DC’s total population, making it one of the ideal places for Young Adults.
- Efficient Public Transport: More than 800,000 people use DC’s public transport every day due to it’s efficiency.
Best Places to Live in DC in 2024
1. Georgetown: Best Neighborhood to Live in DC for Nature-Lovers
Georgetown is probably the most beautiful neighborhood in Washington, DC. The neighborhood offers serene views of the Potomac River and Francis Scott Memorial Bridge along with archaic architecture around the town.
Living in Georgetown can be a bit heavy on the pocket considering the rent which is on average $4,550/month. Moreover, the food and transportation in the neighborhood costs roughly $680 and $70, respectively.
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2. Petworth: Best Place to Live in DC for Community Culture
The Petworth community thrives on its vibrant events scene. Celebrate Petworth, a free summer festival, that offers art, music, food, and wellness activities. Beyond the festival, unique shops, restaurants, and a recreation center provide opportunities to connect with residents.
The median rent in Petworth is $2,687. Moreover, groceries and healthcare in Petworth are 5% and 10% higher than the national average, respectively.
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3. Adams Morgan: Best DC Neighborhood for Young Professionals
Located north of Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan is the spot for young professionals. The neighborhood offers a vibrant nightlife with several bars and international restaurants. The residents describe the neighborhood to be lively, diverse, and spirited.
The median rent in Adams Morgan is $2,660. However, transportation and utilities are 6% and 11% higher than the national average, respectively.
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4. Tacoma: Best City to Live in DC for a Vibrant Lifestyle
Known for its glass art, Tacoma offers a vibrant city life with a happening downtown area. You can explore the museum district to learn about the city’s history and culture. Moreover, the city offers ample green spaces like Chambers Creek Regional Park and Metro Park.
The median rent in Tacoma is $1,676. Transportation is 2% lower than the state average and utility expenses are 6% lower than the national average.
» Homes for Sale in Tacoma, DC: Get a home in this lively city.
5. Capitol Hill: Best Place to Live in DC for Open Spaces
Capitol Hill offers ample green spaces with parks like Folger, Marion, Garfield, etc. It is one of the best areas to live in DC. Apart from this, the neighborhood is highly residential with a variety of houses like rowhouses, townhouses, manors, etc.
The median rent in Capitol Hill is $2,500. Transportation and groceries are 6% and 5% higher than the national average, respectively.
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6. Columbia Heights: Best City for a Diverse Community
Columbia Heights reflects a historical vibe due to the George Washington University, which was established in 1821. The neighborhood boasts of people from diverse cultures with Hispanics being the highest in number.
The median rent in Columbia Heights is $2,500. However, due to its walkability and serene views, groceries and healthcare are 5% and 10% higher than the national average, respectively.
» Homes for Sale in Columbia Heights, DC: Find a home in one of the best locations to stay in Washington DC.
7. Dupont Circle: The Most Walkable Neighborhood in DC
Dupont Circle is a lively DC neighborhood known for its historic charm. Residents enjoy beautiful architecture with Queen Anne and Victorian-style homes. It offers restaurants, bars, and shops, with a popular farmers market. Plus, It’s a walkable area with good public transportation.
The median rent in Dupont Circle is $2,502. However, transportation and utilities are 6% and 11% higher than the national average, respectively.
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Bottom Line
DC is one of the best places to live in the US due to its strong employment market and rich history. However, living in DC can be a bit expensive as the median home price is $590K and the cost of living is estimated to be $4,970, excluding the rent.
District of Columbia has experienced steady growth in recent years. Hospitality, life sciences, and tourism are some of the booming industries. Apart from this, the state’s rich history and culture make it one of the most appealing places to live in the US.
» Free Home Value Estimator: Get an estimate of property values with DC’s most accurate home value estimator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the richest area of DC?
Georgetown and Capitol Hill are among the richest areas of DC due to the serene views and ample green spaces.
What is the safest place to live in DC?
Adams Morgan is one of the safest places to live in DC. The neighborhood scores an A+ rating in terms of safety.
What are the cheapest places to live in DC?
Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan are some of the cheapest places to live in District of Columbia as compared to other areas of the state.
