What are Safe Neighborhoods in Washington D.C.?
If you're moving to Washington D.C., you'd do well to settle down in places like Spring Valley, Adams Morgan, Foggy Bottom, Dupont Circle, U-Street Corridor, Brookland, and of course, Capitol Hill. These are some of the safest neighborhoods in Washington D.C. where security is tight and the community is largely peaceful.
Rich Neighborhoods in Washington D.C.
Kalorama, Woodley Park, Wesley Heights, and Glover Park are the rich neighborhoods in the city. Kalorama, in particular, is full of grand mansions, lavish homes, and some of the most luxurious apartments in Washington D.C..
Areas to Avoid in Washington D.C.
The unfortunate reality is that Washington D.C.'s crime rates are high. Especially in places like Anacostia, Brentwood, Deanwood, Congress Heights, and Le Droit Park, among many others. There are areas you’d do well to avoid in the American capital.
Adams Morgan, Washington D.C.
You might already guess what kind of neighborhood Adams Morgan is when you see the multi-colored houses that line up its streets. The neighborhood is relatively similar to New York's and London's trendy SoHo districts but this is their more homely residential counterpart. It's a lively scene here, filled with diverse restaurants, exciting bars, and hip hangouts. You'll likely see more of the younger crowd settling down and hanging out in this part of the city than the aged politicians that stereotypically make up D.C.'s population. Having fun is the name of the game here.
Adams Morgan D.C. Restaurants
Adams Morgan has some of the finest restaurants in Washington D.C.! The entire area is a must for foodies in the city, thanks to its diverse culinary scene and popular hotspots. Federalist Pig, for example, is a major highlight. It has various branches throughout the city and the one here at Adams Morgan is among its most popular. If you're into meat, especially pork ribs, then you'll love the Federalist Pig! Tail Up Goat on Adam Mills Road is another great spot. It's a nice diner that serves Mediterranean food. What more could you ask for?
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Bloomingdale, Washington D.C.
No, this place doesn't have anything to do with the famous American luxury retailer. There isn't even a Bloomingdale branch in this neighborhood. What you will find, however, is a charming district that mixes the old and the new. Classic architecture reigns supreme here, what with the brick houses lining up all 12 blocks of this relatively small area. Despite its size, it's a pretty energetic place, packed with karaoke bars, award-winning restaurants, and even a farmer's market every Sunday!
Where is The Bloomingdale Neighborhood in Washington D.C.?
Bloomingdale is located in the northwest quadrant of the city and north of Capitol Hill. Its bordering districts include Brentwood, Edgewood, and Logan Circle.
Is Bloomingdale, Washington D.C. Safe?
The short answer is yes, Bloomingdale is a generally safe neighborhood. The long answer, however, is that the area has mid-to-high crime rates. While it's not the most dangerous part of Washington D.C., it's also far from the safest.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Capitol Hill in Washington D.C.
If you think security in D.C. is a bit much, remember that the city is home to the country's politicians. And they all congregate in Capitol Hill, the district that has all the important buildings. From the Capitol building and the Library of Congress to the Supreme Court and the White House, all of the most noteworthy American political arenas are situated here. But beyond them is still a residential district with its own collection of delicious eateries and exciting nightlife hotspots.
Capitol Building in Washington D.C.
The major highlight of Capitol Hill is, of course, the United States Capitol. This is where the country's leaders pass laws, debate about governance, and more. Though it's become a bit tumultuous over the years, it remains one of the most important political institutions in the country and the rest of the world.
Is Capitol Hill in D.C. Safe?
Naturally, Capitol Hill is one of the safest neighborhoods in Washington D.C. Apart from the tight security thanks to the politicians who live and work here, the area is also filled with families, almost as if it’s an urban suburb.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Downtown D.C.
The Smithsonian museums, the Verizon Center, the National Mall, and the White House–these are just some of the major tourist attractions in the District of Columbia's Downtown area. It's safe to say that for those visiting the city, these are what you ought to focus your time and energy on exploring. But if you're going to move to Washington D.C., you'll likely appreciate the more urban side of the city instead. Those who prefer living the city lifestyle would get just that if they chose this part of the American capital as their new hometown.
Is Downtown D.C. Dangerous?
It's safe enough. Though Downtown D.C. has mid-to-high crime rates, it's not so infested with crime that you need to avoid it altogether. It's still a great place to explore during the day while at night, you'd do well to go out accompanied by locals who know the area well.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dupont Circle, Washington D.C.
Dupont Circle is a trendy part of Washington D.C. where the young and young-at-heart thrive and survive. It's a popular residential neighborhood filled to the brim with eclectic hotspots. Some parts, such as Connecticut Avenue, for instance, encourage a chill lifestyle filled with cool cafes, charming bookstores, and more. The area is also known for its lively nightlife scene. Popular clubs like THRōW Social DC, Decades DC, and the Phantom Lounge liven things up after dark.
Dupont Circle, D.C. Restaurants
As already mentioned, Dupont Circle is for the cosmopolitans living in the American capital. The place has a lot of great hotspots to offer, especially when you want to eat out. Bistrot Du Coin on Connecticut Avenue, for example, is a French bistro that's all about haute cuisine. This is your go-to spot for escargot, French cheeses, and more. Don't miss Lyle's on New Hampshire Avenue too, especially when you want to have brunch! Their mid-morning meals are anything but mid! Up for some Foreign cuisine? Then you'll love SURA Restaurant on P Street. This Asian fusion hotspot serves up various dishes from East and Southeast Asia.
Is Dupont Circle, Washington D.C. Safe?
Yes, it is. Dupont Circle is among the safest neighborhoods in Washington D.C., suitable for young professionals living on their own for the first time in a big city. If you wanted to work in the US and moved to the American capital to achieve it, this district is a great place to start.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Foggy Bottom, Washington D.C.
Despite its funny name, Foggy Bottom is one of the more distinguished neighborhoods of Washington D.C.. Largely residential area, it's home to many important places in the city. There's the iconic John F. Kennedy Center, a beloved fine arts theater but also often the venue for many important conventions and conferences. George Washington University is also close by, one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the country. Even the White House isn't too far off. You'd barely need to navigate Washington D.C.'s public transport to get there from Foggy Bottom.
Where is Foggy Bottom in D.C.?
Located north of the National Mall, Foggy Bottom is near the center of the American capital.
Is Foggy Bottom, D.C. Safe?
Yes, it is. It’s a largely residential part of town that’s safe and peaceful enough for even families with little kids. Of course, it helps that places like the United States Senate and the White House are fairly close by.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Georgetown, Washington D.C.
Georgetown University is another of the finest and most prestigious schools in Washington D.C.. Best known for its postgraduate programs, countless students from the country and around the world study here. But what truly makes it stand out in the city is that it's located in the neighborhood of the same name. Georgetown is among the most popular neighborhoods in the American capital. It helps that there are plenty of boutiques, shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars to keep them entertained and to liven things up a bit. But at the same time. this area's classical beauty by way of 18th and 19th-century architecture makes this the top Instagrammable spot in Washington D.C.
Where is Georgetown University?
Georgetown University is located on O Street in the Northwest quadrant of Washington D.C., specifically in the district named after the educational institution itself.
Is Georgetown in Washington D.C.?
Yes, it is. It’s in the Northwest quadrant of the American capital.
Is Georgetown, Washington D.C. Safe?
Definitely. Since it's a university district, it's no surprise that Georgetown is among the safest neighborhoods in Washington D.C., perhaps even in all of the East Coast too.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
H Street NE, Washington D.C.
Where can you get a tattoo in Washington D.C.? On H Street NE! One of the more hip neighborhoods in the city, this is yet another district packed with millennial and Gen Z residents. Looking and feeling more like Brooklyn than an area in the American capital, you can feel the energy just by taking a stroll here. It also helps that there are tons of culinary and nightlife hotspots that stay open until the wee hours of the night. And you can't say that about the other districts here! The Harmaker Bar, Irregardless, and The Little Grand are some of the highlights worth checking out!
Where is H Street NE in D.C.?
H Street NE is located in the Northeast quadrant of Washington D.C. It's a one-and-a-half-mile-long stretch lined with different bars, restaurants, cafes, shops, and more.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Logan Circle, Washington D.C.
The Victorian houses, looking as grand as luxurious homes in Paris, are undeniably the star attractions here in Logan Circle. Those who are moving to Washington D.C. might also appreciate living in such novel residences, especially since the district is practically the most suburban-like area in or near the city center. There are enough establishments to keep up the city lifestyle here, but for the most part, this area is as quiet and as peaceful as any other old suburb in the Midwest.
Where is Logan Circle in Washington D.C.?
Logan Circle is located in Northwest Washington D.C. and is near other central neighborhoods like Dupont Circle and Chinatown. It's also near the Metro Center station, a central spot in the city's underground metro system.
Is Logan Circle, Washington D.C. Safe?
Not only is Logan Circle safe, but it’s also one of the more peaceful neighborhoods in Washington D.C.. It’s one of the best areas to raise a family in the American capital.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
U Street Corridor, Washington D.C.
Located in the northwest part of the city, music is perhaps the main draw of U Street Corridor. The home of jazz in the American capital, this neighborhood lights up when the sun goes down and soulful beats fill the air. Many jazz clubs, music bars, and even a few karaoke spots dominate the area, making it the go-to place for those who want to have some fun and, of course, listen to good music at night. It's a welcome change of pace from the busier parts of the city.
Is U Street Corridor in D.C. Safe?
Affirmative! U Street Corridor is among the safest Washington D.C. neighborhoods and it’s peaceful enough for people to start a family in the area.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
If you want to know more about the American capital, especially if you're planning to move here, then get to know its central districts with this Washington D.C. neighborhood guide. It has the basics of the city's most popular areas.