7 Tips for Anyone Moving to DC

Washington is a lively city full of culture and history that attracts people from all over the world. The capital of the United States appeals to more than politicians and government staff. Although DC is known for tourism, numerous people call it home.

Washington is a city with numerous personalities. A federal operational town, an international metropolis, a picturesque tourist destination, a curator for the country’s history and artifacts, and a multi-cultural center that preserves its small-town feel.

It’s an exciting city to live with a variety of choices for work, recreation, and lifestyle. There are various neighborhoods in Washington, DC, for someone to choose to live.

Moving to a different city can be a stressful and frustrating experience, especially when moving to a big city. Here are seven tips to help with moving to DC:

1. Be ready for the Cost of Living

The price of living in Washington DC is relatively high. It is ranked the eighth most expensive city in the U.S. Expect to pay more for housing, food, etc. With the higher cost of living tends to be balanced out with a higher median household income.

2. Recognize the Neighborhoods

The DC area offers various types of neighborhoods, and each community brings a different culture and price of rent to the table. For example, if you’re interested in a hipper neighborhood, Logan Circle might be the choice for you with its Victorian-style homes dating back to 1870. Another lively area is Mount Pleasant DC, with an active, thriving community and a quiet suburban appeal. It is near downtown, which makes it a desirable neighborhood, along with great dining and retail stores.

3. It is not Just a Government City

Even though the federal government is in Washington, DC, and hundreds of people in the city work for the government, there is a robust private sector with many opportunities for those who are not interested in working for the government. DC is attracting you, an educated worker, because of its economy.

4. The Understood Dress Code

You will quickly notice that most people, particularly around Capitol Hill, dress very professionally. If you are moving to DC, from a small town, it is essential to recognize that what you considered professional dress attire, might not cut it in Washington, DC. Numerous fine dining restaurants or upscale bars have dress codes that they enforce, so before heading out anywhere, research what attire is acceptable or asking a friend.

5. History is All-Around

A majority of the cities museums are free to tour. In addition to regular exhibitions, many of the museums host free talks, receptions, and film screening. Washington, D.C. is full of history, and the past isn’t just about presidents and senators. The city has a wealth of history in the vital role it played in civil rights, the labor movement, and the women’s suffrage movement.

6. Many Staycation Opportunities

Washington is located near several excellent weekend getaway activities. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, such as hiking in the Shenandoah National Park, or canoeing in Harper’s Ferry, or take a four-hour drive to Virginia Beach to enjoy some relaxation out of the hustle and bustle of the city.

7. There is a lot of Traffic

Getting around in the city tends to be slow, there are a lot of people living or commuting to Washington DC, so car and foot traffic is usually on the heavier side. You’ll need to leave your home much earlier to reach your destination on time. It’s normal to have your drive take up to an hour or more to get to your location, especially if you are not living close to work or school.

Final Thoughts

Washington, DC, is home to students, families, singles, young citizens, military personnel, and longtime residents who have seen the city go through lots of change. Like any city, Washington has its ups and downs, but in general, it’s a city that offers a great deal to its residents in terms of culture, history, lifestyle, nature, dining, work, education, and nightlife.