The nation’s capital provides a thriving economy, bustling food scene, excellent education, rich history and culture, and a safe environment to its residents. It’s no wonder many are drawn to relocate to DC.
If you’re considering moving to Washington, DC, this article provides you with everything you need to know about this city.
Cost of Living
One of the important factors to consider before moving to DC is the cost of living.
Simply put, the term “cost of living” refers to the amount of money required to cover basic expenses to maintain a certain lifestyle standard in a particular place. Overall, the cost of living in Washington DC is 47% higher than the national average.
The cost of living also takes into account the median household income. This allows you to estimate how much more or less you could be earning in DC by comparing it to the income in your current area. In Washington, the median household income is $93,547.
Credit: Image by Andrea García | Unsplash
Housing
The cost of Housing in DC takes into account both the price of rent and the price of a home. The average monthly rent for an apartment in Washington is $2,422, while the average selling price for homes is around $1,175,977.
Utilities
The cost of basic utility services in Washington DC includes energy bills, which cost around $227.70 per month, and telecommunications, at $190.71.
Healthcare
Healthcare services in Washington DC, such as visits to the family doctor, cost 10% more compared to the U.S. average.
| Visit to a Medical Professional | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| General Practitioner | $156.21 |
| Dentist | $135.09 |
| Optometrist | $112.83 |
| Ibuprofen | $12.28 |
Food
Food is the most important necessity, and its cost varies across the country. The average cost of everyday foods: A bottle of milk costs about $4.83; a dozen eggs, $3.99; and a pound of potatoes, $5.15.
Credit: Image by Maria Oswalt | Unsplash
Transportation
Transportation costs vary depending on multiple factors, but the cost of fuel is the most important. In DC, a gallon of gas is priced around $3.37, while getting your tires balanced will cost about $75.27.
Climate and Weather
The climate of Washington DC is semi-continental. Winters are cold, while summers bring long periods of sunshine and hot weather, with thunderstorms in the afternoon or in the evening.
Credit: Image by Jacob Creswick | Unsplash
Employment Opportunities
A major hub for government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, and international institutions, Washington DC offers countless possibilities for employment. With a dynamic job market, residents have an average household income of $85,200.
Government jobs make up a large portion of the job market in the city in Washington DC, with over 40% of the workforce employed either directly or indirectly by the government.
Other notable industries include healthcare, hospitality, construction, professional services, and education.
Education System
For families searching for the ideal neighborhood in Washington DC with top-ranked schools, Georgetown, Woodley Park, and Cleveland Park are excellent choices:
Georgetown
Woodley Park
Cleveland Park
Transportation System
Commuting in DC is a pleasant experience, thanks to the sprawling metro system that’s affordable, clean, and well-lit. The city also offers free bus services to ensure fair travel for everyone. Capital Bikeshare is available for short trips or leisurely rides around DC.
Credit: Image by Sara Cottle | Unsplash
Cultural Scene
Washington DC boasts a rich history and culture, with many popular landmarks, such as the White House, the National Mall, the Smithsonian Museums, and the Lincoln Memorial.
Home to a plethora of cultural institutions, DC residents have convenient access to theaters, art galleries, music venues, museums, monuments, and memorials. Many cultural events, concerts, and performances are held in the city throughout the year.
Safety and Security
Most places in Washington DC are safe and ideal for families. Georgetown, Chevy Chase, Adams Morgan, and Foggy Bottom are some of the safest neighborhoods in the city.
However, the areas closer to the geographic center of Washington DC have a higher crime rate. The most common crimes are property crimes, such as burglaries and car thefts.
Below are the most dangerous neighborhoods in Washington DC:
- Deanwood
- Brentwood
- Anacostia
- U Street Corridor
- Stadium Armory
Healthcare Facilities
DC residents have access to the very best healthcare system in the country. The city boasts several highly-ranked hospitals known for excellent patient care. The cost of healthcare in and around Washington DC is also slightly less than the national average.
Credit: Image by Louis Hansel | Unsplash
Local Cuisine and Dining Options
Washington DC has a vibrant food scene. The city is home to famous and historic restaurants, as well as dining spots that serve authentic international cuisine.
Peacock Café
A Georgetown stalwart since 1991, Peacock Café has been serving patrons a faithful lineup of salads, pastas, and sandwiches, along with Persian specialties that reflect the Iranian heritage of Chefs Maziar and Sahab Farivar.
The Salt Line
This restaurant focuses on sustainable seafood, serving time-honored dishes such as clam chowder and stuffed clams, along with more original creations like rockfish tartare topped with pickled mustard seed, fried capers, Worcestershire mayo, and potato crisps.
Tabard Inn
The Tabard Inn’s restaurant is a revered name in Washington DC’s culinary scene. It has been operating continuously since 1922 within the namesake hotel and earned its landmark status in February 2020.
Founding Farmers
The farm-to-table menu at Founding Farmers features sustainably sourced produce and meats, freshly baked loaves of bread, and in-house distilled spirits, making it one of the most-reserved restaurants in the city.
Medium Rare
Medium Rare has gained a cult following for offering a single menu item – a $28.95 prix-fixe meal. For a fixed price, diners are served a signature culotte steak cooked to their liking, hand-cut fries, crusty bread, and a simple green salad.
Ready to Make the Move to Washington, DC?
Living in Washington DC offers numerous advantages – from a rich and storied culture to an enviable job market. It’s no surprise that so many are drawn to the nation’s capital to see what life in this is all about.
If you’re ready to move to Washington DC and would like to know your home options, please give me a call today at 202-577-8428 or send me an email at James@theGrantGroup.com to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of rent in Washington, DC?
The average monthly rent for an apartment in Washington is $2,422.
How accessible is public transportation in Washington, DC?
The city boasts a sprawling metro system that’s affordable, clean, and well-lit. It also offers free bus services to ensure fair travel for everyone. Capital Bikeshare is available for short trips or leisurely rides around DC.
Are there family-friendly neighborhoods in Washington, DC?
Yes, some of the best neighborhoods for raising a family include Georgetown, Chevy Chase, Adams Morgan, and Foggy Bottom.
