13 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Washington, D.C. [2024]

Washington, D.C., the vibrant capital of the United States, pretty much has it all: sports teams, extensive green space and parks, tons of historical sites, trendy restaurants and bars, and a walkability score that’s through the roof. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a city with plenty of things to do.

That said, whether you’re already looking at Washington, D.C. apartments or still researching the city, it’s important to get to know the neighborhoods of Washington, D.C.

In this guide, we'll explore the 13 best neighborhoods to live in Washington, D.C., providing insights into their amenities, culture, and overall appeal. Whether you're a young professional seeking a lively urban environment or a family searching for a quiet residential enclave, Washington, D.C. has something for everyone.

13 Best Neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.

How We Chose the Best Neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.

For us, choosing the best neighborhoods in Washington, D.C. came down to balancing affordability in rent prices with the desirability of the neighborhood. We sought to provide an even balance of upscale and affordable neighborhoods in Washington, D.C. to show an even picture of what living in this city is really like:

• Rental Prices: We looked for a mix of upscale and affordable neighborhoods that were desirable to renters.
• Location: We looked for neighborhoods with good transportation scores and transportation options that were conveniently located.
• Historical Significance: Many of Washington, D.C.’s best neighborhoods are historical, well-established areas that are widely recognized by locals and appealing to renters.

1. Adams Morgan

• Great For: Young professionals and international crowds drawn to nightlife and diverse restaurants
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $2,598
• Walk Score: 95
• Transit Score: 78
• Bike Score: 90
• Map of Adams Morgan

Like most Washington, D.C. neighborhoods, Adams Morgan is filled with history. Residents and visitors will note the beauty of the many 19th-century row houses that adorn the streets.

This small neighborhood has many brag-worthy features. They include a gorgeous community garden, an annual Adams Morgan Day Festival, the Adams Morgan Farmers Market, and Walter Pierce Park.

Adams Morgan is a favorite among the younger crowds, including millennials looking for some fun. Muzette offers residents a chance to become an international singing sensation with its karaoke offerings, alongside its delicious cuisine. Those who enjoy a more rugged entertainment can make their way to the Jack Rose Dining Saloon. There they can peruse and enjoy the restaurant’s huge selection of whiskey.

Adams Morgan is known as a highly walkable and bike-friendly city. It's not uncommon to find cyclists riding the neighborhood's bike lanes or pedestrians bustling along the sidewalks.

For those who work in the city, access to the Metro Red Line makes commuting from the neighborhood easy. In short, Adams Morgan is a prime location in a colorful little neighborhood with lots to offer any prospective resident.

2. Dupont Circle

• Great for: Young professionals, LGBTQ+ community, and urbanites who enjoy a centralized location, trendy bars, and cultural attractions
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $3,145
• Walk Score: 98
• Transit Score: 87
• Bike Score: 96
• Map of Dupont Circle

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., Dupont Circle is an historic neighborhood celebrated for its post-Civil War era buildings.

The centerpiece of the neighborhood is its namesake park. The roundabout that is touted as the center of this fun neighborhood is also home to a small green space for lounging and stone chess tables that are notorious for riveting chess matches.

Beyond viewing exciting chess games, residents of Dupont Circle can make their way to one of the numerous bars, restaurants, shops, and art galleries that lie within the neighborhood’s borders. You can even take a trip to the massive and ever-popular Dupont Circle farmer's market founded in 1977. It’s still going strong to this day!

Those who are more historically- or politically-inclined can head to Embassy Row. The street hosts a popular collection of over a hundred international embassies, missions, and residences. Beware, however, Embassy Row is a popular tourist attraction, which means parking is often limited.

If you're in the market for a nice rental, Dupont Circle has a mix of grand mansions, upscale condominiums, and cozy apartment buildings or row houses to choose from.

You won't have trouble commuting from wherever you choose to live in Dupont Circle. The Red Line is easily accessible for quick public transportation. That’s why the neighborhood is popular with young professionals.

3. Georgetown

• Great for: Wealthy families, professionals, and tourists seeking historic cobblestone streets, high-end shops, and waterfront ambience
• Starting Rent for a 2-Bedroom Apartment: $3,200
• Walk Score: 85
• Transit Score: 63
• Bike Score: 74
• Map of Georgetown

Georgetown is known as the home of the well-known university of the same name. However, it's got a lot more to offer residents than just a college campus.

Probably one of the nicest neighborhoods in Washington, D.C., Georgetown was designated a historic district in 1950. It’s the location of many historical events and was a frequent hotspot of George Washington.

It’s no wonder that taking a stroll down Georgetown streets can feel like an impromptu history lesson. Massive 19th-century mansions can be seen looming over the neighborhood alongside the embassies that continue into Embassy Row.

Georgetown is, among other things, a shopper's paradise. This neighborhood's commercial streets, specifically M-Street, are filled with tons of high-end designers and boast significant retailers such as Aerie, H&M, and Anthropologie. You'll also find many small businesses offering distinct designs and products on your Georgetown shopping spree.

If you're looking for a little more peace and quiet, then head down to the Georgetown Waterfront Park, where you can walk the park’s labyrinth, gaze out at the water, or go for a run. Or, you can enjoy a scenic stroll along the C&O Canal.

If you work up an appetite, grab a bite to eat at one of Georgetown’s gourmet “streateries.”

As a whole, Georgetown offers a lifestyle that seamlessly combines sophistication with charm, making it one of Washington, D.C.'s most coveted neighborhoods to call home.

4. Capitol Hill

• Great for: Politicos, staffers, and history buffs living near the seat of power amidst charming row houses and Eastern Market buzz
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,860
• Walk Score: 88
• Transit Score: 79
• Bike Score: 92
• Map of Capitol Hill

Have you ever wanted to taste the rare air of the U.S. government in action, but don't fancy a run at public office? Then Capitol Hill is the place for you!

As the political epicenter of the nation, this neighborhood is aptly named. It’s home to many significant political buildings including the Supreme Court and the Capitol Building.

Beyond its historic institutions, the neighborhood is characterized by its charming row houses, tree-lined streets, and a community atmosphere.

If you're considering marking the move to Capitol Hill, you'll have access to a robust variety of restaurants and vintage storefronts, all of which are readily available on foot or by Union Station.

Plant lovers and botanists flock to the U.S. Botanic Gardens in the same numbers that book lovers head down to the Library of Congress.

If you get the chance, don't miss stopping by the Eastern Market. You'll find tons of great food, handmade goods, and fresh produce.

All in all, there’s something for everyone in Capitol Hill.

5. Foggy Bottom

• Great for: Students, interns, and young professionals that need quick access to George Washington University, the State Department, or Kennedy Center
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $3,000
• Walk Score: 97
• Transit Score: 87
• Bike Score: 79
• Map of Foggy Bottom

Yes, Foggy Bottom has a strange name. And, yes, it has an ever-present eerie fog that rolls off the Potomac River to thank for it.

However, it's a bright and popular Washington, D.C. neighborhood with a culture all its own. Not to mention, it tops the list of safe neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.

Artists are easy to spot in this neighborhood. It's home to the JFK Center for Performing Arts. It's become Washington, D.C.'s premier arts location and features incredible performances year-round.

The lovely row houses dating back to the 1800s are filled with an array of individuals from artists to restaurateurs. That's not all surprising, as the neighborhood features a five-star restaurant and whiskey bar tucked into the bowels of the infamous Watergate Complex.

Political scandals aside, residents have access to the scenic views of the Potomac while they enjoy a bike ride or run in the neighborhood.

Rock Creek Park is also a nice feature of the Foggy Bottom. Over a century old and spanning a full 1,754 acres, the park also is home to a planetarium, Civil War forts, and horse trails.

With its central location (you can visit by taking the Metro's Orange Line), vibrant cultural scene, and rich history, Foggy Bottom offers a unique living experience in the heart of Washington, D.C.

6. Woodley Park

• Great for: Young professionals, retirees, and families seeking a peaceful residential neighborhood with easy access to both urban amenities and natural surroundings
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $3,156
• Walk score: 76
• Transit Score: 67
• Bike Score: 76
• Map of Woodley Park

Woodley Park’s charming residential streets are dotted with historic row houses, grand estates, and modern apartment buildings, providing a diverse range of housing options for every taste and budget. This architectural tapestry reflects the neighborhood's rich history. Residents also enjoy the neighborhood's close-knit community atmosphere, where friendly faces become familiar.

Woodley Park boasts scenic escapes right on its doorstep. Rock Creek Park, with its sprawling trails and tranquil woodlands, offers a peaceful retreat from the city. And of course, there's the world-famous Smithsonian National Zoological Park, which is home to countless fascinating creatures and free to all visitors.

Getting to and from Woodley Park is a breeze; the Woodley Park-Zoo Metro station provides effortless access to all the monuments, museums, nightlife, and restaurants that Washington, D.C. has to offer.

With its blend of natural beauty, historic charm, urban convenience, and a welcoming community, Woodley Park offers a serene and sought-after living experience for families, professionals, and nature lovers alike.

7. Southwest Waterfront

• Great for: Professionals, empty nesters, and individuals who enjoy living close to downtown, while also having access to activities and attractions along the riverfront
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $2,656
• Walk score: 83
• Transit Score: 73
• Bike Score: 93
• Map of Southwest Waterfront

Perched along the banks of the Potomac River, Southwest Waterfront is a bustling neighborhood undergoing a renaissance, seamlessly blending historic charm with modern waterfront living. Once a busy commercial port, Southwest Waterfront has transformed into a dynamic urban destination.

Upscale residential buildings line the river, while waterfront promenades invite leisurely strolls and stunning river vistas. An array of trendy restaurants, lively bars, and exciting entertainment options ensure there's never a dull moment.

Residents enjoy unparalleled access to recreational activities, from kayaking on the Potomac to picnicking in scenic parks.

Proximity to The Wharf, a premier entertainment district, puts a world of restaurants, shops, and cultural venues at your fingertips. History buffs will love exploring the neighborhood's rich past, evident in landmarks like the historic Municipal Fish Market.

With its unique blend of historic preservation, modern development, and scenic waterfront vistas, Southwest Waterfront offers a lifestyle unlike any other in Washington, D.C.

8. Chevy Chase, D.C.

• Great for: Affluent families and professionals prioritizing peaceful, upscale living with excellent schools and suburban amenities
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $2,750
• Walk score: 57
• Transit Score: 51
• Bike Score: 53
• Map of Chevy Chase

For those who enjoy the delights of the city but want a quiet place to retreat, you can't get better than Chevy Chase.This picturesque neighborhood, distinct from its Maryland neighbor of the same name, caters to those who crave urban excitement yet yearn for a tranquil retreat.

One of the best neighborhoods in Washington, D.C. for families, Chevy Chase has an abundance of green space and playgrounds, creating an idyllic environment to raise children.

While dining and entertainment options may be slightly more limited within the immediate vicinity, residents rarely find this a drawback because the delights and attractions of downtown Washington, D.C. are just a stone's throw away via the Metro Red Line.

And for those Chevy Chase residents seeking outdoor adventures, Rock Creek Park is right at their doorstep.

Residents of Chevy Chase enjoy the best of both worlds: a close-knit community atmosphere, convenient access to urban amenities, and the serenity of a park-filled neighborhood.

9. Columbia Heights

• Great for: Young professionals, families, and artists enjoying revitalized streetscapes, trendy restaurants, and easy access to downtown
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $2,150
• Walk score: 96
• Transit Score: 79
• Bike Score: 90
• Map of Columbia Heights

Columbia Heights bursts with a dynamic energy that reflects its diverse community. A haven for local artists and residents who embrace cultural richness, Columbia Heights offers an atmosphere unlike any other in Washington, D.C.

The neighborhood's large Latino population has woven a beautiful tapestry of Latin American culture into its very fabric. Experience world-class performances at the GALA Hispanic Theatre, a premier artistic venue, or immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions on display at the Mexican Cultural Institute, which offers educational programs open to all.

Beyond the cultural offerings, Columbia Heights boasts green spaces perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Meridian Hill Park, a local favorite, beckons with its gorgeous fountains, statues of Joan of Arc and Dante, informative exhibits, and the captivating energy of Sunday drum circles. This wheelchair-accessible green haven is the ideal spot to unwind after exploring the plethora of bars and restaurants lining 11th Street NW.

If you're planning to walk or bike in the area, you should know that it's notoriously hilly. For those that prefer a less strenuous commute, the Metro's Yellow and Green Lines put the rest of Washington, D.C. in easy reach.

10. Logan Circle - Shaw

• Great for: Young professionals, empty nesters, LGBTQ+ community, and those looking for great nightlife or a blend of historic charm and an up-and-coming vibe
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $1,999
• Walk score: 97
• Transit Score: 88
• Bike Score: 96
• Map of Logan Circle

Named after its historic traffic circle featuring a statue of Civil War General John A. Logan, Logan Circle is one of the cool neighborhoods in Washington, D.C. Known for its elegant Victorian row houses, tree-lined streets, and a thriving cultural scene, Logan Circle offers residents a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban living.

If you like to Immerse yourself in art and culture, then you can catch a thought-provoking performance at the Studio Theatre, a renowned venue for contemporary productions, browse unique finds at the many art galleries lining 14th Street, or explore the creative energy at the local artist market.

14th Street also boasts an array of dining options, from upscale French bistros to trendy gastropubs and casual cafes, there's something to satisfy every craving. You can also sample local brews at Dacha Beer Garden, a popular spot with a festive atmosphere and outdoor seating.

Beyond these highlights, Logan Circle offers a flourishing nightlife scene with trendy bars and lounges. Whether you're seeking a sophisticated cocktail bar or a lively dance club, you'll find it within walking distance.

With its central location, close proximity to the Metro, and abundance of things to see and do, Logan Circle continues to be one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Washington, D.C. for those seeking an exciting urban lifestyle.

11. H Street - NoMA

• Great for: Young professionals, urban enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking a dynamic and convenient urban lifestyle in Washington, D.C.
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $2,659
• Walk score: 95
• Transit Score: 82
• Bike Score: 96
• Map of NoMa

NoMa (short for "North of Massachusetts Avenue") is more than just a location in Washington, D.C. – it's a full-fledged destination brimming with energy and innovation. Once a quiet industrial area, NoMa has transformed into a dynamic hub for young professionals, families, and creative minds.

If you’re a fan of the arts, you can attend a performance at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. The Atlas is a restored historic theater showcasing a diverse range of productions from dance and music to theater and film. You’ll also want to take a walk down “Art Alley” on Linen Court to admire the colorful murals depicting Washington, D.C.'s history and culture.

Adjacent to NoMa lies the popular H Street corridor, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and shops. This bustling thoroughfare adds to NoMa's appeal, offering residents easy access to a diverse array of dining and entertainment options.

NoMa also boasts a thriving nightlife scene with trendy bars and rooftop lounges. Whether you're looking for a craft cocktail or a dance floor, you'll find it within walking distance.

To escape the urban buzz, take a stroll or bike ride along the Metropolitan Branch Trail, a scenic greenway that winds through the heart of NoMa.

12. U-Street

• Great for: Music enthusiasts, foodies, and those who appreciate a rich cultural heritage, a vibrant nightlife scene, a sense of community, and diverse cultural offerings
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $2,650
• Walk score: 99
• Transit Score: 82
• Bike Score: 96
• Map of U-Street

U-Street, also known as "Black Broadway," is a tapestry of history, culture, and modern energy in the heart of Washington, D.C. Steeped in African American heritage, U-Street was once a center of Black commerce and entertainment, boasting legendary jazz clubs, iconic theaters, and thriving businesses.

Today, U-Street retains its cultural heart while welcoming a diverse mix of residents and visitors.

You can delve into this neighborhood’s rich history by exploring the African American Civil War Memorial and Museum or taking a walk down U-Street to view all the dazzling murals celebrating Black history and culture.

The neighborhood's bustling U-Street corridor is also lined with trendy bars and restaurants, music venues, art galleries, and boutique shops. If you get a chance, stop by the historic Ben's Chili Bowl; it's been serving up its original dish, the D.C. Half-Smoke since 1958.

From its famed music venues like the 9:30 Club to its historic landmarks like the Lincoln Theatre, U-Street continues to be a hub of creativity, culture, and community in Washington, D.C.

U-Street's nightlife scene is legendary, with options ranging from intimate jazz clubs to dance clubs with live DJs.

Whether you're a history buff, a music lover, or simply seeking a fun atmosphere, U-Street offers something for everyone.

13. Mount Pleasant

• Great for: Individuals and families seeking a peaceful yet urban neighborhood with historic charm and a strong sense of community
• Starting 2-Bedroom Rent: $2,650
• Walk score: 92
• Transit Score: 76
• Bike Score: 84
• Map of Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant is a charming and picturesque neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and strong sense of community. With its hilly terrain and stunning views of the city, Mount Pleasant offers residents a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of downtown Washington, D.C. while still being within easy reach of urban amenities.

Mount Pleasant's diverse population and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions contribute to its unique charm. Because Mount Pleasant borders Adams Morgan, residents can also take advantage of Adams Morgan Main Street, which is lined with locally-owned businesses, cafes, and boutiques.

Weaving a strong sense of community, Mount Pleasant comes alive with year-round events. Stock up on fresh produce, flowers, and artisan goods while mingling with locals at the Saturday Farmers Market. From the annual Mount Pleasant Day Festival with live music and local vendors to holiday celebrations and block parties, there's always something to connect residents and celebrate the neighborhood spirit.

Comparing Starting Rent Prices in the Best Neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.

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