Welcome to Washington, DC, the nation's capital! Known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and diverse culture, DC is a city that's sure to captivate you. Enticing as it sounds, it’s no secret that big-city living can come with an even bigger price tag. The diverse culture, bustling social life, and ever-present entertainment often come with a cost: your housing price.
While finding an apartment close to all the excitement can be expensive, it is possible to work, play, and rent at a reasonable price. We’ve compiled a list to help you experience DC’s best without breaking the bank.
The 5 cheapest neighborhoods in Washington, DC are:
Anacostia Southeast
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Washington DC: $2,201/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Anacostia Southeast: $1,172/month
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Median Home Value in Anacostia Southeast: $440,000
Anacostia Southeast is a historic neighborhood located east of the Anacostia River. Known for its bright community spirit and cultural institutions, Anacostia Southeast offers affordable housing options close to the city center. The area is served by the Green Line of the Metro and several bus routes.
Things to do in Anacostia Southeast, DC
Residents of Anacostia Southeast have access to a host of local amenities. The Anacostia Arts Center is a hub for local artists, while Cedar Hill, the home of Frederick Douglass, offers a glimpse into the past. The Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum is just a mile away, offering expansive exhibits for visitors. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail is perfect for walking, jogging, and biking.
Near Northeast
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Washington DC: $2,201/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Near Northeast: $2,479/month
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Median Home Value in Near Northeast: $961,000
Near Northeast is located close to Capitol Hill. Known for its blend of historic and modern homes, Near Northeast offers a unique blend of quirky city living. The neighborhood is served by the Red Line of the Metro and several bus routes, providing easy access to downtown DC.
Things to do in Near Northeast, DC
Near Northeast is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues along H Street Corridor, a modern and eclectic collection of restaurants and retail. Residents can catch a show at the Atlas Performing Arts Center or shop for the day at Union Station. The neighborhood also boasts several parks, including nearby Stanton Park and Union Station Plaza, offering residents plenty of green spaces to relax and unwind.
Union Market
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Washington DC: $2,201/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Union Market: $2,450/month
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Median Home Value in Union Market: $880,000
Located in Northeast DC, Union Market district is known for its thriving food scene and trendy boutiques. This neighborhood is a great choice for those seeking a lively urban lifestyle within the city. Union Market is well-connected with the rest of the city through the NoMa-Gallaudet U New York Ave Station and several bus routes.
Things to do in Union Market, DC
Residents can enjoy a host of local amenities, including the popular Union Market, which offers a wide variety of food stalls, artisanal shops, and events. This area is packed with local restaurants, bars, retail, beauty salons, and unique shops. For those wishing to be in the center of it all, Union Station is the place to be. The neighborhood is also home to Gallaudet University and several art galleries, adding to its vibrant cultural scene.
H Street
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Washington DC: $2,201/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in H Street: $2,433/month
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Median Home Value in H Street: $987,000
Located in the heart of DC, H Street is a bustling neighborhood known for its hip nightlife, diverse dining options, and historic charm. It's well-served by public transportation, including the DC Streetcar and several bus routes, making it easy for residents to navigate the city.
Things to do in H Street, DC
H Street offers a variety of entertainment options, from live music venues to art galleries. The Atlas Performing Arts Center (“where the arts, culture and connection happen”) is a popular spot to catch concerts or see a film in the 1930s movie theater, while the H Street Festival, held annually, is a neighborhood highlight that covers ten blocks and hosts thousands of visitors. The area is also home to a variety of restaurants and bars, offering something for every taste.
Connecticut Ave Northwest
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Washington DC: $2,201/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Connecticut Ave Northwest: $2,197/month
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Median Home Value in Connecticut Ave Northwest: $1.2M
Located in Northwest DC, Connecticut Ave Northwest is a prominent residential and commercial area, dotted with apartments, townhomes, historic houses, and offices. It's a major business district, with several offices and shopping centers lining the avenue. The area is well-served by the Red Line of the Metro, making commuting a breeze.
Things to do in Connecticut Ave Northwest, DC
Connecticut Ave Northwest offers a variety of shopping and dining options. The Chevy Chase Pavilion and Mazza Gallerie are popular shopping destinations just twenty minutes away. The neighborhood is also home to the National Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the United States.
Make the Most of Your Move with Apartments.com
Whether you're planning a short-term stay or looking to settle down, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find an affordable apartment easily. Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine. Once you find the perfect location, narrow the search to a price range that works for you.
No matter your budget, the options are endless with Apartments.com. Ready to get started? Pay less, live more, and rent on.
*Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s January 2024 reports
