Living in Washington DC 🇺🇸 | Everything You Need to Know Before Moving to Washington DC
Living in Washington DC means residing in a city with history, culture, and endless opportunity. As the capital city of the United States, DC is known for its iconic landmarks, political power, and legacy dating all the way back to 1790. But it’s also a great city to call home, offering hip neighborhoods, open green spaces, and endless job opportunities in government, tech, nonprofits, and more.
If you’re moving to Washington DC, you’ll enjoy daily access to the famous Smithsonian Museums, strolls along the Potomac River, and seasonal highlights like the iconic cherry blossoms. The nearby Maryland and Virginia suburbs offer quieter, family-friendly alternatives with easy access to the city. Compared to other cities, the benefits of living in Washington DC include excellent transit, a diverse community, and a paradise for history buffs. Here’s everything you need to know about living in Washington DC.
Is Washington DC a Good Place to Live?
Washington DC is a good place to live. When living in Washington D.C, you can enjoy an abundance of nearby outdoor activities, easy access to historical attractions, and close proximity to other cities like Arlington and Alexandria.
Where Is Washington DC?
One of the most unique things about living in Washington DC is its location. Unlike most major cities, DC isn’t part of any state – it’s a federal district. So if you’ve ever wondered, ‘What county is Washington DC in,’ the answer is: none. Instead, it stands alone as the District of Columbia, created specifically to serve as the nation’s capital.
Washington DC is bordered by Maryland to the north and east, and Virginia to the south and west, with the Potomac River forming much of that natural boundary. This location puts residents within easy reach of beautiful parks, forested trails, and riverside paths, making nature a big part of living in Washington DC. Several nearby cities offer additional attractions and residential options, such as Arlington and Alexandria in Virginia and Silver Spring and Bethesda in Maryland.
Washington DC Information
- Washington DC area: 68.35 square miles
- Washington DC zip code: 20001-20599, 56901-56999
- Washington DC area code: 202, 771
- Washington DC elevation: 409 feet
- Washington DC time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC -5 and -4)
- Closest airport to Washington DC: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), 4.1 miles away
Washington DC Population & Demographics
What is the population of Washington DC? There are 689,545 people living in Washington DC, although commuters from the Maryland and Virginia suburbs raise the population to more than one million during the workweek. Washington DC is also a part of the DC metro area, which has a population of 6.3 million.
Residents living in Washington DC are quite affluent, with a Washington DC median household income of $106,287, well above the national average of $78,538. You’ll also come across many ethnic backgrounds when living in Washington DC, and the area has a racial and ethnic composition of 43.3% Black or African American, 39.1% White (36.6% non-Hispanic), 8.4% two or more races, 4.1% Asian, 0.3% American Indian, and 0.1% Native Hawaiian.
Additional Washington DC Demographics:
- Sex ratio: 52.4% female, 47.6% male
- Median age: 34.9
- Educational attainment: 92.8% high school degree (or higher), 63.6% bachelor’s degree (or higher)
- Foreign-born population: 13.3%
- Notable people from Washington DC: Actress Goldie Hawn, NBA player Kevin Durant, TV host Stephen Colbert
Transportation
Living in Washington DC comes with the perk of excellent public transportation, making it easy to get around without a car. The city is highly walkable, especially in central neighborhoods, and the City Bikes program offers an affordable, eco-friendly way to explore. The DC Metro area is served by Metrorail and Metrobus, connecting all parts of the city as well as Northern Virginia and Maryland. In a recent study by TomTom, Washington DC ranked as the 8th-worst city for traffic in the United States, so many people rely on public transit for fast transportation.
What Is the Cost of Living in Washington DC?
How much does it cost to live in Washington DC? Is Washington DC expensive? These are common questions among many residents thinking about moving to Washington DC. Washington DC has a very high cost of living. The Washington DC Cost of Living Index is 141.9. This means that the average cost of living in Washington DC is 41.9% more expensive than the national average of 100.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four living in Washington DC would need to earn $139,524 per year ($11,627 per month) to live comfortably in the city.
Typical Washington DC Living Expenses:
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $25.00
- Cappuccino: $5.69
- Gallon of milk: $4.35
- Pound of apples: $2.75
- Gallon of gas: $3.48
- Fitness membership (monthly): $110.59
- Pair of jeans: $79.65
- Average Washington DC utilities per month: $208.70
Source: Numbeo
When living in Washington DC, you’ll also need to pay the necessary taxes. The Washington DC property tax rate is currently $0.85 per $100 in assessed value. You can use the Real Property Tax Database Search to obtain property value. Washington DC sales tax currently sits at 6%, while Washington DC income tax is broken up into seven brackets, ranging from 4% to 10.75%.
Washington DC Real Estate | Average Rent & Home Prices
Are you thinking about buying a home while living in Washington DC? According to Redfin, the average home price in Washington DC is $743,750. This is higher than the national average of $438,357. Housing costs are on the rise, and are up 6.3% compared to last year. When living in Washington DC, you’ll have a variety of housing types to choose from. In the city center, you’ll find mostly small townhomes and apartments, while single-family homes line the outskirts of the city.
If you’ll be renting when living in Washington DC, you can expect higher-than-average prices. According to RentCafe, the average rent in Washington DC is $2,528, with Capitol Hill, Penn Quarter, and West End Washington being the most expensive neighborhoods. According to the ATTOM Rental Affordability Report, it’s more affordable to rent than to buy when living in Washington DC.
Neighborhoods in Washington DC | Best Places to Live in Washington DC
If you’re wondering where to live in Washington DC, the city offers a diverse mix of neighborhoods, each offering its own unique attractions. From areas with vibrant nightlife to peaceful tree-lined streets, there’s something for everyone living in Washington DC. Here are a few of the best areas to live in Washington DC – great for those moving to Washington DC who aren’t sure where to settle down.
Capitol Hill | Iconic Neighborhood Close to Top Attractions
One of the most iconic and historic neighborhoods, Capitol Hill is known for its charming row houses and proximity to major landmarks like the White House and the National Mall. It’s ideal for people living in Washington DC who love history, architecture, and a central location. Eastern Market, one of DC’s oldest public markets, is a favorite weekend destination, and families appreciate the residential feel. Often ranked among the safest neighborhoods in Washington DC, Capitol Hill is a top choice for many.
Dupont Circle | Popular Among Young Professionals
A popular destination for young professionals, Dupont Circle is one of the more expensive neighborhoods, but it delivers with great nightlife and convenient access to downtown. Enjoy art at The Phillips Collection, relax in the neighborhood’s namesake circle park, or dine at one of the area’s many cafes. Its central location and walkability make it one of the best Washington DC neighborhoods for city lovers.
Old Town Alexandria | Quiet, Residential Option for Families and Couples
Though technically across the river in Virginia, Old Town Alexandria is a favorite for those living in Washington DC who want historic charm and easy access to the city. With its cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and boutique-lined King Street, it feels like stepping into a postcard. It’s easily accessible from DC and offers a slower pace of life while remaining close to hotspots like Union Market and the National Mall. Living here comes with a price tag, and the average home price is $1.05 million, according to Redfin.
Washington DC Weather & Climate
Living in Washington DC means experiencing all four seasons. The Washington DC climate brings hot, humid summers and chilly winters, with the average temperature in Washington DC ranging from the 30sºF in the winter to 80sºF in the summer.
Does it snow in Washington DC? Yes, though not heavily. The Washington DC annual snowfall is 13.7 inches, so you probably won’t need the snow shovel when living in Washington DC. Spring is peak tourist season, thanks to the blooming cherry blossoms, perfect for outdoor adventures like visiting the National Arboretum.
Washington DC Restaurants
When living in Washington DC, you’ll never run out of new restaurants to try. The food scene is unmatched, and you’ll find both local and international cuisines. These are the best restaurants in Washington DC.
- Ben’s Chili Bowl: Ben’s Chili Bowl is a Washington DC staple. When visiting Ben’s Chili Bowl, you can try their famous hot dogs, chili-cheese fries, and ice-cold milkshakes. 1213 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009, (202) 667-0909
- Le Diplomate: A favorite among locals living in Washington DC, Le Diplomate serves up delicious French fare in a luxurious setting. Make sure to grab a seat outside in the warmer months! 1601 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, (202) 332-3333
- Old Ebbitt Grill: One of the best places to eat in Washington DC, Old Ebbitt Grill is an iconic DC landmark serving up American dishes as well as popular oyster specials. 675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005, (202) 347-4800
Things to Do in Washington DC
Aren’t sure what to do in Washington DC? When living in Washington DC, you’ll never run out of fun things to do. With endless free museums and pop-up shops opening every week, there’s always something exciting going on. These are just a few of the best things to do in Washington DC.
Top Washington DC Attractions
- National Mall: When living in Washington DC, you need to check out the National Mall, which encompasses the Washington Monument, Vietnam Memorial, and more.
- Capitol Building: Head over to the Capitol Building, which houses the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives.
- Lincoln Memorial: After moving to Washington DC, the Lincoln Memorial is a must-visit. The Lincoln Memorial features a 19-foot marble statue of President Lincoln, as well as murals and a reflecting pool.
- White House: Stop by the White House to check out the home of several iconic former presidents.
- Washington National Cathedral: This beautiful landmark features stained glass, organ recitals, and great views from the top.
- Georgetown Waterfront Park: One of the best Washington DC family activities, Georgetown Waterfront Park is a grassy area with several walking and biking trails.
- The Yards: Make sure you stop by The Yards when living in Washington DC. This green space features fountains, a swimming pool, and plenty of grassy areas.
Washington DC Entertainment & Arts
- National Gallery of Art: The National Gallery of Art offers a permanent collection of American and European art.
- John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: Head over to the Kennedy Center when living in Washington DC to enjoy a play or dance show.
- Ford’s Theatre: This is the site of President Lincoln’s assassination and offers nightly performances and tours.
- Capital One Arena: Capital One Arena is home to the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals, and also hosts several concerts throughout the year.
Washington DC Museums
- National Museum of African American History: The National Museum of African American History offers unique exhibits on African American History.
- International Spy Museum: One of the best Washington DC activities for kids, the International Spy Museum offers an interactive look at the history of espionage.
- Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum: Also one of the best things to do in Washington DC with kids, the National Air and Space Museum documents the history of aviation and space exploration.
- Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: This iconic natural history museum features everything from dinosaur fossils to rare gemstones.
Washington DC Parks & Outdoors
- Rock Creek Park: When living in Washington DC, you can’t skip out on Rock Creek Park. Rock Creek Park offers miles and miles of hiking trails as well as tennis and golf opportunities.
- Smithsonian National Zoological Park: The National Zoo is home to over 2,200 animals from across the globe.
- United States Botanic Garden: This botanic garden features thousands of flowers as well as a rare plants gallery and butterfly conservatory.
- United States National Arboretum: This outdoor space is calm and peaceful, boasting trees, plants, picnic areas, and a free museum.
Shopping in Washington DC
- CityCenterDC: Head over to CityCenterDC to enjoy high-end shopping and luxury restaurants.
- Gallery Place: This large shopping complex includes popular retailers as well as a movie theater and bowling alley.
- DC USA: DC USA is full of big-name retailers and well-known eateries.
Map of Fun Things to Do in Washington DC
Sports
For fans of all kinds, living in Washington DC offers a fantastic sports scene right in the heart of the Nation’s Capital. The city is home to several professional teams, including the Washington Commanders (NFL), Washington Wizards (NBA), Washington Capitals (NHL), and Washington Nationals (MLB). Soccer fans living in Washington DC can cheer on D.C. United at Audi Field, while Capital One Arena hosts both basketball and hockey games downtown. If you’re a baseball lover moving to Washington DC, check out Nationals Park near the Navy Yard, which is a summer hotspot for baseball fans.
College sports also play a role in DC’s athletic culture. Georgetown University, George Washington University, and Howard University all have strong basketball traditions and loyal fan bases.
Washington DC Crime Rate
Is living in Washington DC safe? This is a common question among those moving to the Nation’s Capital. Let’s take a look at the Washington DC crime rate.
- Overall crime rate: 4,229 crimes per 100,000 people (3.3% lower than district average and 82.0% higher than national average)
- Violent crime rate: 745 crimes per 100,000 people (8.3% lower than district average and 101.5% higher than national average)
- Property crime rate: 3,484 crimes per 100,000 people (2.2% lower than district average and 78.3% higher than national average)
As you can see, crime rates in Washington DC are above the national average. However, it is important to remember that this is one of the largest cities in the country, so crime rates are naturally a bit higher. According to the United State’s Attorney’s Office, crime in Washington DC is actually at a 30-year low, and violent crime decreased 35% from 2023 to 2024.
As such, Washington DC is a safe place to live. To keep up with crime when living in Washington DC, you can use the Crime Cards crime map, which is run by the Metropolitan Police Department. This map displays real-time crimes as they happen.
When living in Washington DC, you’ll be protected by the Metropolitan Police Department.
Economy & Jobs in Washington DC
Whether you’re already living in Washington DC or moving to Washington DC, you’ll find yourself at the center of a thriving job market. According to USAFacts, nearly 25% of workers in Washington DC are employed by the federal government. However, the job market extends far beyond politics. In the 2023 Global Financial Centres Index, Washington ranked as the 8th most competitive financial center in the world, and fourth in the U.S., highlighting its growing presence in business and finance.
Tourism is another economic powerhouse, ranking as the city’s second-largest industry and providing ample job opportunities at attractions like the National Mall and Smithsonian museums. A few of the largest companies and the best places to work in Washington DC include Fannie Mae, Amtrak, FTI Consulting, and Hogan Lovells.
According to the District of Columbia Department of Employment Services, the top employers in Washington DC as of 2024 were:
- Georgetown University
- Children’s National Medical Center
- Washington Hospital Center
- George Washington University
- Georgetown University Hospital
- American University
- Universal Protection Service LLC
- Booz Allen & Hamilton Inc.
- Howard University
- Insperity PEO Services LP
If you’ll be looking for a job when living in Washington DC, you’ll have plenty of options. Curious about the average income in Washington DC? According to Payscale, the average salary in Washington DC is $89,000.
To look for Washington DC jobs, check out the District of Columbia job board or search for ‘jobs in Washington DC’ on Indeed.
Healthcare
Living in Washington DC means enjoying access to nationally recognized hospitals and medical centers. Leading institutions include MedStar Washington Hospital Center, the city’s largest hospital and a top-ranked facility for cardiology and heart surgery. MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, affiliated with Georgetown University School of Medicine, offers specialized care in oncology, neurology, and organ transplantation.
Children’s National Hospital stands out for pediatric care for children living in Washington DC, featuring the region’s only Level I pediatric trauma center. Additionally, Howard University Hospital is notable for its commitment to serving underserved communities and its affiliation with a historically Black university.
In April of 2025, Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center opened in the city, which is Washington DC’s first new full-service hospital in over 25 years. This facility aims to address healthcare disparities by providing trauma care, maternity services, and specialty care to residents in Wards 7 and 8.
Washington DC Schools
When living in Washington DC, you’ll have access to a wide variety of educational options, from public and charter schools to prestigious private schools and top-ranked universities. The primary Washington DC school district, officially known as District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS), serves students within the city limits and includes over 100 schools. Families in Washington D.C also have access to public charter schools, offering additional choices within the system.
Columbia Public Schools include standout institutions like Schools Without Walls and Benjamin Banneker Academic High School, which are often ranked among the best high schools in Washington DC. For younger students, there are many strong elementary schools in Washington DC, including Janney, Eaton, and Hyde-Addison.
For those interested in private schools in Washington DC, options are everywhere, with well-regarded names like Sidwell Friends, Georgetown Day School, and St. Albans offering incredible academic programs and extracurricular programs.
Higher education is another major strength of living in Washington DC, with well-known universities like Georgetown, George Washington University, American University, and Howard University drawing students from around the world.
When living in Washington DC, you can enjoy a wide variety of libraries, such as Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, Carnegie Library, and Northeast Neighborhood Library.
Washington DC Utilities & DMV Change of Address
Before living in Washington DC, it’s important to know about the different providers you’ll be working with in the area. Here’s a quick list of major Washington DC utilities providers.
- Electric: Pepco, 701 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, (202) 872-2000
- Gas: Washington Gas, 2288 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020
- Water: DC Water, 1385 Canal St SE, Washington, DC 20003, (202) 787-2000
- Trash & Recycling: Department of Public Works, 2000 14th St NW #500, Washington, DC 20009, (202) 673-6833
Before you start living in Washington DC, you may also need to change your address. According to the DC DMV, you must change your address within 60 calendar days of moving. If you have a REAL ID, you can easily change your address online on the DMV website by uploading the required residency documents and submitting your change of address request.
Other options include changing your address by mail (as long as you have two proof of residency documents and a completed DMV driver application form). Additionally, you can complete your address change in person at a DC DMV service center location. Just make sure to bring your two residency documents and a completed driver application form.
Is Living in Washington DC Right for You?
Is moving to Washington DC in your future? Living in Washington DC is great for singles, families, young professionals, and retirees alike, offering abundant opportunities for everyone. If you’re ready to make your move, then get in touch with the Washington DC movers at Express Moving & Storage.
We have been serving the DC Metro Area for over 12 years, and our team is 100% background checked and ready to handle any type of relocation. To discuss your move and get started with a free quote, give our team a call at (571) 332-9682.
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