Whether you’ve landed your dream job or are simply starting a fresh chapter, moving to Washington, D.C., presents a great opportunity. As the nation’s capital, you already know it’s the land of American politics, but there’s so much more to this incredible city. From monuments and memorials to eclectic neighborhoods and buzzing restaurants, D.C. is one of a kind. Our helpful guide has everything you need to know before you make the big move. Before you know it, you’ll be living it up in the Capitol like a pro.
Cost of living in Washington, DC
Not surprisingly, those living in Washington enjoy some of the highest incomes in the nation. It also has a graduated income tax system, ensuring residents only pay what they can afford. The minimum tax rate of 4% is far less than the average American income tax rate of 8.2%. These perks help even out the higher costs of living. Here’s what you can expect to pay for common expenses:
Housing
Rent is a major part of the total cost of living in Washington, D.C., the eighth-most expensive rental market in the nation. Depending on location, you can expect to pay around $2,335 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and $3,139 per month for a two-bedroom place. Similar to other major cities, the closer you are to the city center, the higher the rent.
Utilities
The cost for utilities in a 915-square-foot apartment averages around $160 a month. This estimate includes electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage. Allow between $40 and $79 a month for a cable/ADSL internet plan.
Food
Eating in D.C. isn’t cheap, but it’s lower than it is in New York and other foodie cities. You can expect to spend about $444 a month on groceries. A meal at a cheap restaurant usually costs around $19.50. If you want to treat a special someone to a three-course meal at a midprice restaurant, expect to spend around $82.50.
Top Washington, D.C., neighborhoods
Narrowing down the best places to live in D.C. is tough since there are over 100 neighborhoods to choose from, but here are a few to get you started:
Shaw
If you’re looking for diverse and trendy, Shaw is for you. A wide population, including young families, LGBT folks, and young professionals, makes up the community. It’s also a short walk to downtown or the Metro. You’ll enjoy the food and music scene, craft cocktail and beer bars, and general down-to-earth vibes Shaw offers.
Capitol Hill
With reasonably priced lofts that are nearWith reasonably priced lofts near local restaurants, bars, and beautiful parks, Capitol Hill is a great place for young professionals to live, especially if you’re in politics. It’s famous for its historical vibes, spectacular period row houses, and calm atmosphere. It’s also a delight for foodies, with plenty of great restaurants and the artisan makers of Eastern Market.local restaurants, bars, and beautiful parks, it’s a great place for young professionals to live, especially if you’re in politics. It’s famous for its historical vibes, spectacular period row houses, and calm atmosphere.
West End
The West End was previously known as the “older” end of D.C., but it’s gotten a facelift in the last few years, with luxury apartments and condos sprouting up throughout the neighborhood. There are many activities close by, and you’ll rarely need a car. It’s also located next door to Foggy Bottom, home to the prestigious George Washington University.
Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle is one of the capital’s most sought-after neighborhoods. You can feel the electric energy and culture here, as the streets are home to hip bars and restaurants along Connecticut Avenue, museums and historic landmarks scattered throughout, and embassies lining Massachusetts Avenue. Dupont Circle is a very pedestrian-friendly neighborhood right in the middle of everything. It’s also one of the safest areas, with some of the lowest crime rates in the city.
Transportation
If you’re moving to D.C., you’ll likely question keeping your car. The truth is, you’ll save money by not even having one. Traffic is terrible and parking is even worse. Not only is D.C. extremely walkable and bike-friendly, but the Metro system is also amazing. A one-day pass costs $13, and a weekly pass costs $58. These passes let you use the Metrorail and Metrobus services as often as you like. Unlike other major cities, in D.C., the farther you go on the subway, the more you pay, so your cost depends on the length of your trip.
Things to do
Washington, D.C., is the perfect place if you’re looking for free entertainment. Grab a coffee and stroll through the National Mall or roam around the city’s countless museums. D.C. is exploding with history, and most of it’s free.
Georgetown – Shop the day away in the charming neighborhood that’s also home to Georgetown University. Cobblestone streets lead you to local shops, bars and restaurants along both M Street NW and Wisconsin Avenue NW.
Lincoln Memorial – The Lincoln Memorial is a true piece of American history and a key foundation of our country. It’s truly empowering and impressive to see in person. (Free)
City Segway Tours – This tour is packed full of excitement and one-on-one attention. With maximum group sizes of 7 people, you can ask all the questions about Washington that your heart desires. (From $75)
Smithsonian’s National Zoo – Home to more than 1,500 animals and one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., the Smithsonian National Zoo is open 364 days out of the year. Meet the pandas, otters, and sloth bears on the Asian trail, see snakes, lizards, and turtles in the reptile discovery center, and laugh at the antics of more than a dozen primate species. Admission is also free.
White House & Washington Monument – The White House has been home to every president since the 1800s. The Washington Monument features glass elevators that take you all the way to the top of an observation deck where you can enjoy 360-degree views of Washington, D.C. Take yourself on a self-guided tour of both and soak in the country’s history. Like many local attractions, admission to the White House and Washington Monument is free.
National World War II Museum – Dedicated to the more than 400,000 Americans who died in the war, this gorgeous and inspiring museum is chock full of history. Huge granite columns represent every state and territory that was part of the United States when the war broke out. The wall of stars reminds us of the enormity of our fallen soldiers’ sacrifice. Admission is free.
National Gallery of Art – If you’re an art lover, you have to stop at the National Gallery of Art. You can spend an entire afternoon eyeing classic and modern art from masters like Vermeer, Magritte, and Jackson Pollock. The National Gallery is another great free attraction.
Fun, fast facts about D.C.
Here are a few more things you should know about life in Washington, D.C., before you arrive:
- Whether it’s biking, running, walking, hiking, or rowing, you’ll find D.C. residents outdoors year-round. You’ll fit right in if you’re already active or looking to increase your activity levels.
- D.C. has four quadrants of different sizes, with the Capitol building at the center. Street addresses can get confusing if you’re not paying close attention. Always look for SE, NE, SW, and NW in the street address.
- Washington, D.C., has the second-highest consumption of wine per capita after Idaho. Paradise Springs Winery, Robin Hill Farm and Vineyards, and Walsh Family Wine are three great vineyards less than an hour from D.C.
FAQs: Moving to Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is the obvious place for a career in politics, but the city is a little more diverse than that. Several large international organizations, such as the International Monetary Fund, the International Finance Corporation, and International Development Association, have headquarters in the city. The city also has 176 foreign embassies, trade unions, and nonprofits. The local tech scene is also booming thanks to exciting startups like Pie Insurance, MPOWER Financing, and Arcadia.
The best time for moving depends on your budget. Fall and winter are off-peak seasons, so new leases and movers are often a bit cheaper. For even bigger savings, try moving in the middle of the month. Since more people move at the beginning and end of the month when their lease expires, bucking the trend can get you a great deal. If you’ve got a bigger budget, you may prefer moving during summer, when the weather is warmer and showers are less frequent. Book your summer move early, as moving companies are in high demand this time of year.
D.C.’s walkable streets and dog-friendly spaces make it one of the best cities for you and your pooch. In Dupont Circle, you’ll find three dog parks, free waste bags on some corners, and many restaurants with water bowls outside for visiting canines. Shaw also has a couple of dog parks, dog-friendly restaurants, and the dog-friendly Right Proper Brewing Company. Dogs can also visit the National Mall.
Final thoughts
Washington, D.C., is a beautiful, unique, historically rich city that has plenty of wonderful things to offer. If you’re looking to call D.C. home, there’s no doubt you’ll have the time of your life.
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