Moving to Southwest Waterfront: Exploring a New Development While Living in Southwest Waterfront
Moving to Southwest Waterfront in Washington DC means living in one of the capital's oldest, most transformed neighborhoods. The area is a former slave plantation purchased in the late 1790s for real estate development that never materialized. Since then, the areaâs seen numerous revitalization efforts.
Itâs now known for its most recent reconstruction effort: The Wharf on the waterfront. The Wharf features dining, shopping, and entertainment for visitors and residents. Itâs a lively, great place to live with plenty of green spaces. If youâre deciding on moving to Southwest Waterfront you wonât be disappointed.
Where Is Southwest Waterfront?
Southwest Waterfront is a historic neighborhood in Ward 6 DC, overlooking the Washington Channel. It's within walking distance of National Mall and the Capitol Building and is part of the DC metro area.
Moving to Southwest Waterfront puts you close to Navy Yard and cities like Arlington VA, which is around six miles away, and Alexandria VA is about eight miles away. Getting around is easy thanks to the Waterfront Metro Station and WMATA bus routes, making it one of the most transit-friendly neighborhoods in the city.
Southwest Waterfront Population & Demographics
The Southwest Waterfront population is around 16,000 people, and the wider DC metro area has a population of about 689,545 (2020 U.S. Census). The DC population density is 11,280.4 people per square mile. Since the 2010 census, DC has seen 14% growth, but what has people moving to Southwest Waterfront and all of DC?
According to DC mayor Muriel Bowser, âOur population has exploded over the past decade as more people recognize DC as one of the hottest places in the nation. People know that DC is a welcoming and diverse hub of opportunity â a place that has something for everyoneâ (DC.gov).
Notable residents include R&B singer Marvin Gaye and comedian & actor Al Jolson.
Southwest Waterfront Demographics
- 47% men vs 53% women
- Median age: 34.9 years
- The racial and ethnic composition: White alone (non-Hispanic) 36%, 13% Hispanic, Asian 5%, two or more races 5%, 41% Black/African American
- Foreign-born population: 15.5%
- Median household income: $109,707 â the VA state median household income is $92,090
- Educational attainment: High school grads: 92% and Bachelor's degree or higher: 65.5%
Southwest Waterfront Crime Rate
To understand crime rates before moving to Southwest Waterfront, look to DCâs crime rate info. Overall crime in DC is 4,229 per 100,000 people, around 82% higher than the national average. The violent crime rate is 745 per 100,000 people, which is 101.5% higher than the national rate. And for property crime, the rate is 3,848 per 100,000 people, making it 78.3% higher than the country.
Is moving to Southwest Waterfront safe? Compared to other parts of DC, moving to Southwest Waterfront is a safe choice, with the exception of pockets here and there. The area is heavily patrolled and secure, especially because it is a bustling tourist area thanks to The Wharf.
If youâre moving to Southwest Waterfront and are concerned about safety, visit the Metropolitan Police Department website. You can learn all about the 3,425 officers who keep the district and its residents safe.
Cost of Living in Southwest Waterfront
Part of moving to Southwest Waterfront is wondering if it's expensive, and it is because DC is pricey. The cost of living is about 41% higher than the national average (Cost of Living Index). A family of four moving to Southwest Waterfront would need to earn $153,398 per year to afford living there.
Moving to Southwest Waterfront: Living Expenses
These are some of the prices youâll pay for everyday items when moving to Southwest Waterfront:
- Milk (regular, 1 liter): $1.14
- Eggs (1 dozen): $4.94
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $29.00
- Imported beer (12-ounce bottle): $12.00
- Average Southwest Waterfront utilities per month: $687 (Doxo)
(Numbeo)
Moving to Southwest Waterfront: Real Estate
The median home price in Southwest Waterfront is $400,000, and it has an average cost of $507 per square foot (Redfin). Compared to the national median home price of $436,500, the Southwest Waterfront median home price is 8.4% lower. Start your search for homes for sale in Southwest Waterfront DC early if youâre moving to Southwest Waterfront and buying a home.
Southwest Waterfront Apartments Washington DC
Based on the surrounding area, per RentCafe, the average rent in Southwest Waterfront is around $2,457 per month which is far above the national average of $1,750. Before moving to Southwest Waterfront, be sure to research available apartments for rent if you donât plan on buying.
Southwest Waterfront Neighborhoods
There are no neighborhoods within Southwest Waterfront, but the more popular area is near The Wharf, offering a vibrant nightlife and activities. Throughout the neighborhood is a mix of luxury condos and apartments, rowhouses, and townhomes. If you prefer not to be tied down to a home or apartment but have a boat, the Gangplank Marina is the perfect spot. Itâs home to one of the largest liveaboard communities on the East Coast.
Southwest Waterfront Weather & Climate
When moving to Southwest Waterfront, expect a temperate, humid subtropical climate. It experiences cold, snowy winters that bring blizzards every few years, and hot, humid summers with frequent thunderstorms and the occasional tornado. This area is sometimes hit with nor'easters.
The temperature throughout the year ranges from 30°F to 95°F. Winter lows can fall below 0°F, while summer highs can reach 100°F, although this is rare. Southwest Waterfront annual rainfall is 43 inches, and annual snowfall is 14 inches. The best time to visit is late March through May to see the cherry blossoms bloom, and autumn for milder weather and smaller crowds. Consider a visit before moving to Southwest Waterfront.
Things to Do in Southwest Waterfront
There are countless things to do if youâre moving to Southwest Waterfront. But first, letâs start with shopping, the practical type. There is a Safeway for all of your grocery needs, along with Friendly Food Market, which is a locally-owned mom-and-pop-type store with groceries and essentials.
The Wharf DC
A waterfront area central to life in the neighborhood. It was updated in 2014 for around $3.6B and features shopping, restaurants, events, and live music. This is one of the most fun things to do in Southwest Waterfront for the entire family, thanks to the variety it offers.
101 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024, 202-688-3590
Culture House DC
One of the best things to do in Southwest Waterfront that isn't at The Wharf. This art gallery features community events and is a public/private events venue. The building is a former church painted in vibrant colors, featuring beautiful murals.
700 Delaware Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
King Greenleaf Recreation Center
Looking for Southwest Waterfront family activities? Here you'll find baseball and softball fields, a playground, tennis courts, a spray park, and more outdoor activities. There's a computer lab, fitness center, gym, and multipurpose room inside.
201 N St SW, Washington, DC 20024, 202-645-7454
Additional Attractions in Southwest Waterfront
If you're moving to Southwest Waterfront, stay updated on community events. View the events calendar and search the DC Parks and Rec Department website.
Fine Dining & Restaurants in Southwest Waterfront
You'll find some of the best places to eat in Southwest Waterfront. No matter what youâre craving, youâre likely to find it among The Wharf DC restaurants.
Pink Tiger on the Wharf
A local, family-owned restaurant serving Asian-inspired dishes with a twist and live music. The cocktails are delightful, and guests rave about the wagyu, pad thai, and garlic noodles. Pink Tiger tops the list of Southwest Waterfront restaurants.
751 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024, 202-601-3343
MI VIDA Restaurant Washington DC
High-end Mexican cuisine featuring a large selection of tequila and dishes like mole enchiladas and queso fundido. The happy hour is popular, and this is one of the best restaurants in Southwest Waterfront if you're craving Mexican food.
98 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024, 202-952-7207
Del Mar DC
One of the best fine dining places to eat in Southwest Waterfront. Partake in Spanish food like Basque tapas, a variety of grilled dishes, and fine wines on the patio with waterfront views. Diners enjoy the croquetas, branzino, and lobster.
791 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024, 202-588-7272
Southwest Waterfront Jobs
For an idea of average salary in Southwest Waterfront, we can look to DC. The average salary in Washington D.C. is $93,000 per year, and the average hourly wage is $28.43 per hour. Top employers in the area include Georgetown University, Childrenâs National Medical Center, AARP, and Fannie Mae. Top industries span technology & information, international business, hospitality & tourism, higher education, and healthcare.
Moving to Southwest Waterfront? Start your job search on indeed.com and be sure to check local job boards like The District of Columbia Department of Employment Services.
Southwest Waterfront Schools
Schools in Southwest Waterfront are overseen by the District of Columbia Public Schools; schools in the neighborhood include Jefferson Middle School Academy and Amidon-Bowen Elementary School. If you're moving to Southwest Waterfront, rest assured, the schools are excellent.
Colleges & Universities in SW Waterfront
If youâre a student considering moving to Southwest Waterfront for college, you should know there are plenty of outstanding schools nearby:
- American University
- University of the District of Columbia
- Georgetown University
- The George Washington University
In addition to formal education, there are plenty of free learning resources at local DC public libraries. The Southwest Library is located in the neighborhood.
Southwest Waterfront Statistics & Information
- Federal District: District of Columbia
- Southwest Waterfront area: 24-27 acres
- Southwest Waterfront zip code(s): 20024
- Southwest Waterfront area code(s): 202, 771
- Southwest Waterfront elevation: 410 ft
- Southwest Waterfront time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC -4/-5)
- Closest airport to Southwest Waterfront: Ronald Reagan National Washington Airport (DCA) is around 4 miles from Southwest Waterfront.
Southwest Waterfront FAQs
Is Southwest Waterfront a Good Neighborhood?
Southwest Waterfront is one of Washington, DC's best urban neighborhoods. Anchored by The Wharf, a $3.6 billion mixed-use development along the Potomac River, the neighborhood offers upscale dining, live music venues, waterfront recreation, and easy transit access via the Waterfront Metro Station on the Green Line. With a median household income of $109,707, a walkable layout, bike-friendly lanes, and proximity to the National Mall and Capitol Hill, young professionals and families looking for a fun, well-connected place to live in DC consider it an attractive option.
What Happened to The Wharf in DC?
The Wharf is a major mixed-use redevelopment project that transformed Washington DC's Southwest Waterfront neighborhood along the Potomac River. Developers PN Hoffman and Madison Marquette broke ground on the project in March 2014. Phase I, a mile-long stretch of residential buildings, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, opened in 2017. Phase II added approximately 1.2 million square feet of additional mixed-use space designed by 11 renowned architects. The $3.6 billion development is now one of the largest and most successful urban waterfront projects on the East Coast.
What Is There To Do At The DC Waterfront?
The DC waterfront is centered around The Wharf development in Southwest Washington. It offers a wide range of activities for residents and visitors. The area features over 20 restaurants and bars, live music at The Anthem concert venue, and performances at Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater. Outdoor activities include waterfront strolling, boating, and paddleboarding along the Washington Channel. The Maine Avenue Fish Market, the oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the country, dating back to 1805, is also a longtime neighborhood staple.
Map of Southwest Waterfront
Here is a handy map of the neighborhood to use if youâre moving to Southwest Waterfront.
Moving to Southwest Waterfront With Express Moving and Storage
If you enjoy a walkable neighborhood with plenty of history and interesting things to do, then moving to Southwest Waterfront is perfect. For moving help, call Express Moving and Storage, the top DC movers. We offer services like packing, senior moves, piano moving, long distance and local moves, and much more. Call for a free quote today at 571-332-9682.
"*" indicates required fields