The district is becoming one of the most desired places to live in the country for people between the ages of 21 – 35. And, what is making the district so desirable, besides the ever-improving bike lanes, public transportation, parks and recreation, and night life, is its’ thriving neighborhoods.
With a Walk Score® of 73, the district is the seventh most walkable city in the country, with everything you could ever want, in arms reach. So, if you’re thinking about becoming a resident, forget about driving and those long fist-shaking commutes – ditch the car.
In honor of the great city we live in, we want to share with you this 4th of July the best neighborhoods in Washington, D.C. that make the nations capital so great.
1. Dupont Circle
By far, one of the oldest, most exciting neighborhoods in the district is Dupont circle, which boasts a walk score of 98 / 100, making it the most walkable neighborhood in the city. Residents of this neighborhood have not only access to grocery stores, restaurants, shops and entertainment, but also office space and schools. Crime is extremely low in comparison to the rest of the city as well. Expensive? Yes. But there are plenty of condominiums and homes for sale catering to a wide variety of homebuyers and the tradeoffs vs. living in the suburbs are amazing – especially if you work in the district.
2. West End
Joining Dupont Circle in terms of walkability and luxury properties is the small, almost-not-noticeable West End, loaded with many great grocery stores, restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Developments continue in this area, making it attractive for young professionals with cash to spend. You’d be hard-pressed to find a home under the $500,000 range, but they do exist – rent starts at around $2,400 for smaller 500 sq ft apartments.
3. Downtown
Where is downtown? Well, this is considered the square east 22th street, west of 10th street, and sandwiched between M and H – others may suggest otherwise. This is where businesses thrive, tourists crawl, and top-tier artists and entertainers live out their dreams. Plenty of festivals happen in this area, so if you’re into this sort of thing, Downtown is the place to be. Also, check out CityCenterDC for a glimpse at mixed-use developments happening to make Downtown more of a neighborhood.
4. Penn Quarter
Considered the east end of “downtown” and merging out of this area with China Town is Penn Quarter, which attracts a substantial number of new homebuyers who want to luxury of living in the city, but cannot afford those Dupont and West End prices. Contemporary galleries and large farmers markets, along with boutique restaurants and theater make this a great place to live. With a walk score of 96, everything you need is within arms reach. For those of you who do not like congestion, we advise not moving or living in this area – there’s lots of traffic, tour groups, and trendy chain restaurants.
5. Logan Circle
If you are a foodie, this is where you should live. Just minutes from the infamous 14th street, restaurants are alive with a wide range of culinary traditions. We vote this to be the best place to move for anybody, but especially singles, as the nightlife is absolutely off the charts with the 25-35 professional crowds who like to socialize. Long-time residence of DC also flocks here to regain their youth, camouflaged amongst the younger generation in the expansive outdoor bar scene.
Other Notables:
• Capitol Hill
• Foggy Bottom
• Kalorama
• Adams Morgan
• Columbia Heights
Want to know more?
Ray Gernhart and Associates is the #1 RE/MAX group in the mid-atlantic and has been in business for over 25 years – coordinating hundreds of new home sales and helping ease the transition for families moving in and out of the District of Columbia, Maryland, Northern Virginia area. Each year, nearly 70% of our clients come from referrals. We’ve performed so well, we’re now selling houses to the children of early customers. If you’re interested in speaking with us about neighborhoods in the district, give us a call at 571-992-0700 or email ray@talktoray.com. Thank you!
