$745,270Average Value$433Average Price per Sq Ft22Homes For Sale
A former Civil War battleground turned walkable northwest D.C. neighborhood
One of the oldest neighborhoods in northwest Washington, D.C., Brightwood blends Civil War-era history with a growing, metropolitan atmosphere. Free, formerly enslaved people originally settled the community in the early 1800s. However, in 1861, Union troops seized the land and built Fort Stevens, which would eventually become the site of D.C.’s only Civil War battle. Earthworks and canons from the war still exist at Fort Stevens Park. But even though Brightwood has been around for centuries, the neighborhood is still developing. “It’s an old, well-established neighborhood, but right now, it’s in its prime,” says Stephanie Cooper, a Realtor with RLAH Real Estate who has sold several homes in the area. “There’s a new housing development where the Walter Reed [General] Hospital used to be. It’s also extremely walkable, and that’s a big reason people are moving here.” Locals can walk to the Takoma Metro station, one mile away, and Rock Creek Park, a green space stretching from Silver Spring, Maryland, to the Potomac River. Latin and Caribbean restaurants line Georgia Avenue NW, a bustling thoroughfare also within walking distance.
A Tudor-Style brick home on Van Buren St NW in Brightwood, Washington, DC.
A standalone townhome on Tuckerman St NW in Brightwood, Washington, DC
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Walter Reed General Hospital is now a housing development
Homes primarily built between the 1920s and ’50s dot Brightwood’s sidewalk-lined streets. Freestanding Colonial Revivals and Traditional styles, often in red brick, sit on lots that tend to be around 4,000 square feet and may have Chestnut and white oak trees. Many have stone retaining walls and concrete staircases leading up to front doors. There are also rowhouses, usually in Tudor or Colonial Revival styles. Houses can have three to four bedrooms, and street parking is common. Single-family homes can cost between $600,000 and $700,000, while multifamily homes may cost between $700,000 and $900,000. Though there are typically houses for sale, renters make up 70% of the neighborhood, largely due to new housing developments like The Parks at Historic Walter Reed. Walter Reed General Hospital used to be in the neighborhood’s northern area before it moved to its current Bethesda campus in 2011. The hospital’s beaux arts-style main building from 1909 now sits empty as the 3.1 million-square-foot mixed-use development, The Parks at Historic Walter Reed, is built around it. Several townhouses, apartments and condo buildings are already finished, though the project likely won’t be complete until 2030. “There’s going to be a shopping center, tons of restaurants and office space eventually,” Cooper says. “Right now, there’s mainly just housing, but even that’s bringing more people to Brightwood.”
Homes in Brightwood tend to have small lawns and alleys for parking and trash.
Families have many choices when looking for a home in Brightwood.
Stately colonials are common in the Brightwood neighborhood.
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Fort Stevens is preserved in Brightwood
In 1864, Confederate troops attempted to capture the capitol during a conflict now known as the Battle of Fort Stevens. Abraham Lincoln allegedly stood atop a wooden wall during the battle and came under enemy fire before a general yanked him down. The Union Army successfully defended the city after two days of fighting. Today, historical markers detailing the event dot walking paths at Fort Stevens Park on 13th Street NW. Across the street, produce and flowers grow at the Fort Stevens Community Garden, where locals can rent plots. Fort Stevens Recreation Center sits on Van Buren Street. The ranch-style building has fitness equipment inside, and youth soccer leagues play on the fields outside. Emory United Methodist Church on Georgia Avenue NW has been integral to Brightwood since 1832. The original building was torn down when Union troops needed the land for Fort Stevens’ weapon storage. Another church was built after the war in 1870, but the current Classic Revival-style building wasn’t constructed until 1922. A low-income apartment complex called the Residences at The Beacon Center now wraps around the church, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Fort Stevens in Brightwood boasts two Civil War cannons.
Fort Stevens in Brightwood is the site of DC's only Civil War battle.
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Tennis, hiking and horses at Rock Creek Park
Established in 1890, Rock Creek Park was the third national park in the U.S. The green space spans 1,745 acres, and several amenities are within a mile of Brightwood. For instance, crowds cheer during the Washington Open held every July at the William H.G. Fitzgerald Tennis Center, which also offers children's lessons and adult leagues. Hikers and bike riders can explore 32 miles of trailway, stretching alongside the park’s namesake waterway and through sugar maple and oak tree forests. Red clapboard stables cover the Rock Creek Park Horse Center, the only public riding facility in D.C. In 1923, President Warren G. Harding was at the opening of the Rock Creek Park Golf Course; it’s currently closed for renovations. “Before it shut down, people in Brightwood would just walk right up to the golf course because it’s that close to the neighborhood,” Cooper says. The new 18-hole course will feature a putting green, driving range and restaurant when it reopens in 2026. Other popular recreation hubs include part of Rock Creek Park, like the Smithsonian National Zoo, 4 miles south of the neighborhood, and the Potomac River’s Thompson Boat Center, 6 miles in the same direction.
The Rock Creek Golf Course in Brightwood backs up to Rock Creek Park's nature trails.
The Rock Creek Golf Course is a large public golf course located in Brightwood.
Fort Stevens Recreation Center in Brightwood has a variety of activities to choose from.
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Walking to the Metro or a 5-mile drive downtown
The Takoma Metro station is a mile northeast of the neighborhood and follows the Red Line, carrying passengers to downtown D.C. in about 30 minutes. Cooper says locals often walk or bike to the station. “The mile-long walk or bike ride is so much easier than parking at the station. It takes most people less than 10 minutes to get there.” Locals can rent a bike from the Capital Bikeshare station on 14th Street & Luzon Avenue NW. Several Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority bus stops are also in the neighborhood. 16th Street NW spans Brightwood’s west side, making downtown D.C. a less than 5-mile drive south. Depending on traffic, the drive can take between 20 and 45 minutes. The Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is 10 miles south, and Dulles International Airport is 25 miles west. Children's National Hospital has a Research and Innovation Campus on 13th Place NW, but the nearest full-service hospital, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, is 3 miles south.
In the morning local children can easily walk to one of the Brightwood's schools.
The Takoma Metro Station is Brightwood's closest public transit with red line trains.
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District of Columbia Public Schools, plus a charter school
Students can attend Brightwood Elementary School, graded a B-minus by Niche, and Ida B. Wells Middle School, earning a B-plus. They may continue to C-plus-rated Calvin Coolidge High School, which has NAF Academy programs in multimedia and health sciences. On Main Drive NW, the A-rated District of Columbia International School serves students in sixth grade through high school and offers language immersion programs in French, Chinese and Spanish.
DC International School is an IB and advanced language public school in Brightwood.
Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School serves students Brightwood students from pre-k to 8th grade.
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Locals walk to Georgia Avenue NW
Restaurants and convenience stores fill brick buildings on Georgia Avenue NW, stretching along the neighborhood’s eastern edge. “Everybody in Brightwood walks to Georgia Avenue to go out to eat,” Cooper says. “The street is known for diverse restaurants, so the options are endless.” Bartenders mix house margaritas and waiters carry out sizzling fajitas as patrons sing karaoke at Haydee’s, known for Salvadorian food since 1997. Lines form inside Teddy’s Roti Shop, a counter service spot serving Trinidadian fare in Styrofoam containers. A Walmart Supercenter, Safeway and Whole Foods are also along the street. Downtown Silver Spring, 2 miles north, offers more shopping and dining options, and stores like Target, Ulta Beauty and Macy’s are in The Mall at Prince George’s, less than 5 miles east.
A full bar makes Oohs and Aahs a great place for dinner in the Brightwood neighborhood.
Haydee's is a popular Mexican restaurant located on Georgia Ave in Brightwood.
Legendz is a clothing and gift store located in Brightwood.
Safeway is a convenient local grocery store available to Brightwood residents.
Chicken Ramen from Jinya Ramen, a brand new restaurant in Brightwood, DC.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Despite the reasonably high home prices and what you will typically hear of it being a family friendly neighborhood when buying in this area, there are consistent incidents of violent crime - carjackings, robberies, shootings - that make me regret purchashing a house here. Will be selling and moving out as soon as I can.
4.0Current Resident
6/1/2023Niche Review
I like that my immediate neighbors are nice and we can be neighborly towards one another. I hate that there is a lot of crime in the neighborhood.
4.0Current Resident
1/22/2019Niche Review
Easy acess to public transportstion, kinda close to everything, close to parks, close to supermarkets, diverse neighborhood.
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Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Brightwood
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
8
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Brightwood Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Brightwood, Washington sell after 59 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Brightwood, Washington over the last 12 months is $661,250, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Multiple Move-In Ready Residences and Floorplans! Own your dream home with just 5% down—ask about our Exclusive First-Time Home Buyer Grant! Plus, enjoy a 2% Closing Credit Incentive. Schedule a tour today!This bright and spacious Penthouse level 1BR/1BA with an oversized balcony offers amazing closet space, a moveable kitchen island, Bosch stainless steel appliances, and sleek contemporary
Multiple Move-In Ready Residences and Floorplans are Available! Own your dream home at The Parks with a 2% Closing Credit Incentive and 5% Grant for DC first time home buyers. Schedule a tour today!Discover this stunning Large 1 BR / 1 BA residence, offering both space and style. For those seeking luxury, comfort, and a pet-friendly lifestyle—dogs are welcome! Soaring ceilings create an airy,
Spacious1-bedroom, 1-bathroom co-op at 1446 Tuckerman Street Northwest, Washington, DC. In a well maintained building, this unit is around 700 square feet of space you can truly make your own. You'll love the bright and roomy living area featuring luxury vinyl plank. The spacious bedroom has 2 large closets and engineered wood flooring. The kitchen has been updated with brand new cabinets and
Discover affordable convenience in this charming 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom corner unit at 1446 Tuckerman Street Northwest, Unit 307, Washington, DC. Situated in a well-maintained community, this 700-square-foot gem offers a perfect blend of modern living and classic comfort. Step into a generously sized living room, perfect for relaxation or entertaining. The combination of ceramic and berber carpet
Multiple Move-In Ready Residences and Floorplans are Available! Own your dream home at The Parks with a 2% Closing Credit Incentive. Schedule a tour today! This bright and spacious penthouse 2 BR + Den / 2 BA condo offers amazing closet space, a moveable kitchen island, private corner balcony, Bosch stainless steel appliances, and sleek contemporary finishes in our warm palette overlooking our
Peaceful. Private. Fully Loaded. 1BR/1BA, well-loved and maintained 607 square foot condo. Generous kitchen-dining experience. Spacious living. Area for a home office. In-unit washer-dryer. Central air & heat. Large closets and extra storage. No shared walls, concrete separation above, and no unit below result in hard-to-find privacy & quietude in a mature condo building. With its mid-century
VA Assumable of 5.375%! Welcome to Kite House at The Parks at Walter Reed—where elevated design meets community living. This move-in ready 2BR/2BA home delivers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience. The kitchen island and open floor plan offer a well-designed layout for cooking and entertaining. Soaring 9’ ceilings and oversized 6’ windows flood the space with natural light, while
Welcome to Unit 202, perfect for first-time home buyers or investors. This 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom features an open concept leaving/dinning room, hardwood floors throughout, eat-in kitchen, generous sized bedroom and wall-mounted A/C units for year-round comfort. Pet lovers will appreciate the pet-friendly policy and easy access to nearby parks and green spaces, perfect for outdoor enjoyment.
Welcome to 6513 13th St NW, a charming home in the Brightwood community offering timeless character, generous outdoor space, and exceptional access to neighborhood amenities. The inviting living room features a wood-burning fireplace, a warm focal point perfect for cozy evenings. Hardwood floors run throughout the main level, while upstairs carpet overlays the original hardwood floors, offering
Discover an incredible opportunity to own this spacious and character-filled 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhouse located on a picturesque, tree-lined street in the highly sought-after Brightwood neighborhood. Brimming with potential, this four-level home offers the perfect canvas to create your dream space! Step inside and be welcomed by original hardwood floors, a well-designed layout, and plenty of
Delight in this spacious and light-filled 1BR, approx. 1,000 SF, with assigned garage parking in the well-maintained 1960s Winchester-Underwood Cooperative—a rare value in one of DC’s most promising neighborhoods. Freshly painted and move-in ready, this home features gleaming parquet hardwood floors, a renovated gas-cooking kitchen with custom cabinetry, and abundant storage—including a huge
Welcome to The Vale at the Parks, a vibrant new apartment community in Northwest Washington, D.C. Choose from stylish studio, one, two, or three-bedroom apartments featuring modern finishes like wood-look flooring and white quartz countertops. Enjoy resort-inspired amenities including a sparkling saltwater pool with cabanas, a state-of-the-art fitness center, social clubroom, and innovative
In the heart of Brightwood, this updated townhouse offers charm, space and convenience. From the moment you walk up to the home and step foot on the front porch you'll feel opportunity and the comforts of home calling. Imagine yourself now, relaxing on the charming front porch overlooking the well-maintained front yard area. As you walk inside, the main level boasts a traditional floor plan with
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Discover the charm of this delightful 1-bedroom townhouse nestled in the vibrant Brightwood neighborhood. With its prime downtown location, you'll enjoy easy access to local shops, cafes, and community events that foster a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This home features a cozy layout with a full bathroom and convenient laundry facilities, perfect for your everyday needs. Available starting March
The Hartley is a luxury apartment and townhome community in Washington, DC, offering thoughtfully designed studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartment homes as well as two-bedroom townhomes. Each residence features contemporary kitchens with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, smart thermostats and keyless entry, full-size washers and dryers, wood-style flooring, and select private
Fully renovated basement unit now available for rent at 1301 Somerset Pl NW, located in the desirable Brightwood neighborhood. This bright and modern residence offers a private, separate entrance, updated finishes throughout, and a smart, efficient layout ideal for comfortable city living. Brightwood is perfectly situated within a 15-minute drive to Downtown DC, Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Takoma
At Clover at The Parks we've pulled together the best aspects of co-living and then made them better. Clover allows you to reap the undeniable cost savings of sharing co-ed furnished living spaces with like-minded roommates, while only ever being responsible for your rented bedroom. Offering an all-inclusive living package that boasts fully equipped kitchens, monthly supply drops, a cleaning
This 3-bedroom, 1-bath apartment at 5911 13th Street NW offers a well-laid-out floor plan with comfortable living areas, making it ideal for everyday living. The layout provides a natural flow between rooms and excellent usability, whether you’re working from home, entertaining, or simply enjoying the space. The location is a standout feature. The apartment sits directly across the street from
Kenneth BrownQuasar Property Management And Real Estate LLC
City living with suburban tranquility. Rittenhouse Apartments in Washington, DC is the ultimate high-rise sanctuary. Conveniently located in Upper Northwest DC, youll be close to Silver Spring and minutes away from the Beltway. The Rittenhouse is pet friendly, has a 24-hour fitness center, a large outdoor pool and on-site parking. Rittenhouse Apartments combines the luxury and convenience
Welcome to this beautifully updated bi-level condominium in a highly desirable, gated community. This spacious and sun-filled residence offers a thoughtfully designed, functional floor plan that blends comfort and style for modern living. The home features a bright living room with soaring ceilings, a well-appointed kitchen, and a dedicated dining area—ideal for both everyday enjoyment and
WELCOME TO ROLLING TERRACE APARTMENTSLocated on Peabody Street and 14TH Street NW. Rolling Terrace puts you in Brightwood's playground. With endless access to dining, shopping, and entertainment, you are certain to enjoy living in such a convenient location. This beautifully restored mid-rise boasts a variety one and two bedrooms with easy care floors, granite countertops, stainless
Welcome to this light-filled 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo in The Brooks at 6803 Cameron Dr NW. Step into a modern, open-concept living space enhanced by large windows that fill the room with abundant natural light. The sleek, efficient kitchen features stainless steel appliances and contemporary finishes. The spacious bedroom offers a comfortable retreat with a full bath conveniently connected for
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