$914,385Average Value$651Average Price per Sq Ft45Homes For Sale
‘Our version of Bourbon Street’
Shaw is a historically African American enclave with a devastating chapter of its story written during the 1968 civil rights riots. The neighborhood draws its name from Robert Gould Shaw, the Union officer who famously led the first black regiment of the Civil War. Home to the Howard Theatre, a cultural institution that opened in 1910, the greater U Street area was once known as Black Broadway. Long touted as one of D.C.’s most promising up-and-coming neighborhoods, Shaw is almost there in terms of its complete renaissance from the urban blight of the 1980s and 90s. Now a thriving and vibrant site of urban renewal, today, the community is a music mecca painted with some of the most celebrated public art in the city. “This has become the most prominent entertainment corridor in the district,” says Kimberly Diggs, an associate broker with Douglas Elliman Real Estate who has closed over 300 transactions since 2007. “Music lovers love it; it’s our version of Bourbon Street.”
Celebrating Black history, culture and the arts
Though Shaw represents less than three-quarters of square mile in DC, the neighborhood and its most notable residents were incredibly consequential regarding American black history, culture, and arts. Symbols memorializing their legacy and contributions are found throughout the community and help preserve and elevate its historic character. Outside the Howard Theatre, stands a stunning memorial to Shaw’s most famous native son, Duke Ellington. The adjacent Walk of Fame features bronze relief portraits of the most important Black musicians of the 20th Century who performed at the venue, embedded in the sidewalk, including Marvin Gaye, Ella Fitzgerald, and Mamie Smith. The African American Civil War Memorial and Museum at the corner of Vermont Avenue, 10th and U Streets, commemorates the contributions and sacrifices made by almost 210,000 Black soldiers who fought for the Union in the Civil War. The Mary Ann Shadd Cary House is the historic residence of its namesake, who was an abolitionist and one of the first black female journalists and lawyers in the United States. One of Shaw’s coolest and somewhat hidden secrets is the DC Alley Museum, which features a collection of murals painted by DC area artists on garage doors along Blagden Alley.
‘Little Ethiopia’ headlines uniquely diverse dining
Shaw offers diverse dining options and is home to “Little Ethiopia” near the intersection of Ninth and U streets. The highly regarded and popular Dukem Ethiopian Restaurant is, however, a short walk from the heart of Little Ethiopia at the corner of U and 12th streets. Nathan Guggenheim, an agent with Washington Fine Properties, cites his favorite Shaw eatery, Nina May, as representative of an active dining scene offering “very high-end but accessible food.” Budget-conscious students and others looking for a quick and easy meal have options like McDonalds and Chipotle in the northeast of the neighborhood near Howard University’s campus. Diggs points to the opening of the Florida Avenue Whole Foods in 2020 at Florida as a key moment in Shaw’s evolution as a home and not just a destination, “It made it much more convenient for commuters.” She added, “If you don’t have a car, this is the area to live in. It’s very, very convenient to get downtown in and around town.”
Parks and gathering spaces
Shaw shows off its neighborly side with a jam-packed events calendar. There’s Art All Night Shaw, featuring music, art installations, and dance troupes, as well as Eat.Drink.Shaw., a celebration of hundreds of fantastic restaurants in the neighborhood. Events at the behemoth Walter E. Washington Convention Center, like the D.C. Auto Show and National Book Festival, draw crowds by the thousands. But if there’s one thing that’s long defined Shaw, it’s the music scene. Named the "Venue of the Decade," the 9:30 Club is an institution — and well worth the inevitable wait in line. The Atlantis, although newer to the party, is quickly becoming one of the neighborhood’s favorite venues.Not known for its abundance of green space, Shaw’s French Street Park is a bright pop of color in a concrete landscape. The dog park and adjoining skate park are popular gathering places in the neighborhood. People are also known to congregate near the Spirit of Freedom Statue at the African American Civil War Museum.
Colorful rowhomes and newer condos and co-ops
For homebuyers considering Shaw, the real estate market is competitive with a good diversity of housing and growing home values. “The variety of styles makes this a great neighborhood for people of many different socio-economic levels to come together,” Diggs says. There aren’t grand mansions in Shaw, but there are rows of federal-style brick townhomes with colorful facades and linear accents. “Because there aren’t a lot of them, the market for these is incredibly competitive, with most buyers paying over asking price, particularly if the home includes parking,” Diggs says. The price range for townhomes is broad, from around $800,000 on the low end to upwards of $2 million. Over the last two decades, there has been a lot of redevelopment, with many mid-rises and rowhomes converted into high-end condos. “There are co-op communities throughout Shaw that provide the ability to live in the community for slightly under market value,” Diggs says. A one-bedroom, one-bath condo in need of updates can sell for as little as $250,000, while two-bedroom, three-bath modern unit in a newer building can list as high as $1.2 million.
Schools performing above average
Families with children in Shaw are served by District of Columbia Public Schools, a solid urban district with a B grade from Niche but an A in diversity. Also graded B, Seaton Elementary is known for a particularly active parent-teacher organization that frequently hosts events. Kids may then advance to Cardozo Education Campus, which serves grades six through 12 and is graded B-minus by Niche. Parents who prefer out-of-boundary options or pre-kindergarten school can participate in the notoriously competitive D.C. school lottery. Although the neighborhood is near Howard University, a historically Black research university founded in 1867, it doesn't feel like a college town because students tend to stick closely to campus.
Walkable with robust public transportation
Situated about a mile north of the White House in downtown D.C., Shaw has a dedicated Metro stop on the Green and Yellow lines and it is a quick walk to the U Street and Mount Vernon Square stations. There are Metrobus routes along most of the major thoroughfares, including Rhode Island Avenue and 11th Street. “People who buy here want to enjoy more of their lives and spend less time traveling, so they appreciate the walkability and accessibility to public transportation,” Diggs says. For those who rely on their own vehicles, parking is an issue in the neighborhood, with buyers paying a premium for homes that include parking.
Higher crime than the national average
Compared to the national CAP Index score of 4 (out of 10), Shaw’s score of 6 indicates higher than-average incidences of crime. Robbery and larceny, in particular, happen at almost double the national rate.
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
Are you familiar with the Shaw neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Shaw
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
9
4
Assault with Weapon
6
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
6
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
6
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
6
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Shaw Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Shaw, Washington sell after 61 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Shaw, Washington over the last 12 months is $995,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This is city life - make it yours! Tucked between the hearts of Shaw and Logan Circle, this home delivers the space that's increasingly hard to find: a true 3-bedroom home with 2.5 baths, a surprisingly expansive private yard with large deck, and a detached shed that's rife with possibilities. Art studio? Workshop? Maker space? Storage for every hobby you've picked up and sworn you'd stick with?
Welcome to this spacious 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo in the heart of Shaw, offering the perfect blend of historic charm, character, and modern city living. Located in the iconic Lafayette building, originally built in 1898 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This unique residence combines impressive square footage with timeless architectural details rarely found in DC condos.
Immediate Delivery! Beautifully appointed corner two-bedroom home with terrace and garage parking. Perla is a well-known luxury condominium offering concierge services, a lobby/lounge area, and a rooftop sky-lounge and terrace. Interiors designed by Olvia Demetriou feature white oak hardwood flooring throughout, Porcelanosa baths, custom Mechoshades, a Chef-grade kitchen with Thermador
Welcome to a stunning, recently renovated sanctuary in the absolute heart of Logan Circle! This is urban luxury living at its finest, placing you just steps from the vibrant energy of 14th Street. Spend your weekends browsing the curated collections at Salt & Sundry, grabbing a world-class brunch at Le Diplomate, or enjoying fresh oysters at Pearl Dive before hitting Studio Theater for a show.
Welcome to this modern and spacious one bedroom in the heart of the city just blocks to Logan Circle, award winning restaurants and bars, and boutiques and art galleries! The condo features an open concept kitchen to dining and living spaces, with high ceilings, hardwood floors and is perfect for entertainment, it will be hard to find a larger one bedroom in the area! The kitchen includes
Set in one of DC’s most vibrant neighborhoods and at one of Shaw’s most prestigious addresses, this exceptional Penthouse at The Perla is a masterclass in modern design, effortless luxury, and unforgettable views. The professionally landscaped private terrace is the true showstopper, perfectly positioned to capture breathtaking sunset views across the city, with sightlines spanning the Washington
NEW IMPROVED PRICE – SELLER SAYS BRING ALL REASONABLE OFFERS!Rare Shaw investment opportunity with tremendous upside potential. Property requires a full renovation and is being sold strictly AS-IS. Ideal for investors, developers, flippers, or buyers looking to customize a home in one of DC's most sought-after neighborhoods.Due to property condition, only Cash, Hard Money, Renovation
Discover Urban Chic: Off-Market Gem with a private secured PARKING garage in a historic former bakery, nestled on a hidden one-way alley-like street amidst all that Shaw and U St. have to offer. Immerse yourself in the epitome of city living at The Adora - a new luxury condo, as part of the redevelopment of the preserved former Historic Holzbeierlein Bakery at 1827 Wiltberger St NW. This
Discover this rare top-floor, corner two-level residence at The Monique Condominium, ideally situated in the heart of vibrant Shaw. Spanning nearly 1,400 square feet, this light-filled loft-style home showcases soaring two-story ceilings and expansive windows that create a bright, open, and airy living environment. The thoughtfully designed layout features two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a
Welcome to 1508 10th Street NW, a beautifully renovated duplex in the heart of Washington, DC's highly sought-after Logan Circle neighborhood. Whether you're an investor seeking strong cash flow or an owner-occupant looking to offset your mortgage with rental income, this property offers a rare opportunity in one of the city's most desirable locations. The bottom unit features 2 bedrooms, 1 full
Welcome to Residence 1827 Wiltberger Street, an extraordinary penthouse sanctuary within the meticulously restored Historic Holzbeierlein Bakery—a beloved DC Shaw landmark thoughtfully transformed into an exclusive nine-residence boutique collection. This expansive, heavily upgraded two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom penthouse presents an unparalleled living experience, crowned by a generous
Experience the best of city living in this classic end-unit row house ideally situated in the heart of the vibrant Shaw–Howard University neighborhood. This beautifully maintained three-level home features 4 spacious bedrooms and 2 fully updated bathrooms, blending historic charm with modern comfort.Inside, you’ll find gorgeous hardwood floors, recessed lighting throughout, and an inviting
Nestled in one of the city's most vibrant and walkable neighborhoods, 7th Flats offers thoughtfully designed studios, 1- and 2-bedroom homes with open layouts, European-inspired finishes, ENERGY STAR appliances, and in-unit washer/dryer for contemporary comfort. Enjoy modern community amenities including a 24/7 fitness center, 24/7 concierge, club-style lounge with kitchen and billiards, rooftop
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath townhome located in the highly sought-after Shaw neighborhood. As you arrive, you're greeted by a charming fenced front lawn and a concrete walkway leading to the front entry. Inside, the home features a warm and inviting living area with gleaming hardwood floors, a brick accent wall, a decorative (non-operational) fireplace, and a bright
The Shaw's integrates into the historic fabric of the neighborhood where jazz and blues legends, such as Duke Ellington and Louie Armstrong, worked and dined. Every home features distinctively designed interiors, innovative amenities and technologies, and thoughtful layouts perfectly tailored to the way you deserve to live. Enjoy sweeping vistas from the rooftop terrace with the city at your
AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE MOVE-IN! This fully renovated one-bedroom, one-bath condo in Shaw was completed in 2024. The open layout seamlessly combines the living area and kitchen, with exposed brick adding a stylish, modern touch. Enjoy abundant natural light throughout and the convenience of having your own washer and dryer in the unit. Another thoughtful detail is that the bathroom is located
Take a walk on the lively side of the city at Jefferson MarketPlace. Live the exciting mix of culture, comfort and contagious energy that fuels our vibrant Shaw neighborhood. Shows, restaurants, nightlife, take your pick. It’s all here. It’s not hard to let the stresses of the day melt away – or get amped up to keep the day going – when you come home to Jefferson MarketPlace. From the extra
This nicely updated "studio" offers a fresh and bright living space, open layout with updated appliances designed for comfortable city living. Kitchen has trendy hip backsplash and granite countertops. Offers easy access to restaurants, shopping, and Metro making commuting and exploring the city incredibly convenient. Secure WELL KEPT building, Laundry located in the basement level.Tenant
City Market at O is a multifaceted community in one of DC?s most exciting neighborhoods. It?s full of character and infused with the only-here buzz of Shaw. With three distinctive residential offerings? The Medley, 880P, and Intersect?this place takes a comprehensive approach to city living: 650 apartment homes, diverse and in-demand amenities, a 182-room hotel, a 78,000-square foot Giant
Discover modern living at Ellington Apartments, where comfort and convenience meet in the heart of the city. Our renovated townhome-style apartments offer spacious one, two, and three-bedroom units, perfect for students, professionals, and families alike. Located just steps from Howard University, our community is surrounded by the vibrant energy of the U Street Corridor, with easy access to
The Shay apartments in Washington, DC, are all about easy, modern living in one of DC's most walkable, vibrant, and creative neighborhoods. Our community offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans with high ceilings, large windows, sleek finishes, and convenient features such as oversized closets and in-home laundry. You can enjoy thoughtful extras right outside your door, including
Located in one of DC's most vibrant neighborhoods, The Langston offers a variety of floor plans, including studios, one-bedroom apartments, one-bedrooms with dens, and two-bedroom layouts. With stunning interiors and modern amenities, The Langston is the perfect blend of luxury and accessibility an ideal place to call home.
Discover Hodge on 7th, apartments where an active 55+ adult community blends seamlessly with vibrant urban living. When you live in an apartment at Hodge on 7th, you'll find the energy of Shaw to be intoxicating - abundant shops, restaurants and close to multiple Metro stations. With beautifully finished living spaces and access to the city's largest grocery store only steps away, this active
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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