Perched at the edge of the DC waterfront, Southwest DC is an upscale, contemporary neighborhood that welcomes visitors and residents alike. The neighborhood is characterized by event venues, high-end condos and shopping and dining destinations.
A former industrial hub centered around the area’s waterways, Southwest DC grew into a residential community that was later reshaped by government renewal plans in the 1950s and 1960s. More recently, the area experienced another evolution in the 2000s with the advent of The Wharf DC along the channel. “It’s actually my favorite neighborhood in all of Washington, DC” says Kimberly Diggs, an Associate Broker with Douglas Elliman. “There’s a bit of something for everyone.”
Vibrant nightlife
The Wharf is a hub of event venues, bars and restaurants that keep the area humming until late into the night. The Anthem hosts popular bands and musicians, while the Union Stage showcases a variety of acts such as stand-up comedy and musical performances. Pearl Steet Warehouse is a more intimate venue where local bands can reach new audiences. As busy as the nightlife is, Diggs says that the area was well-planned in to to mitigate resident concerns around traffic and parking. “Parking is pricey, but there is a lot of it, which minimizes the impact to the residents.”
Beyond the goings-on of the local venues and dining establishments, the community puts on its own events like festivals and parades that welcome families to come out and celebrate. The annual JazzFest at The Wharf features local and national talent on two outdoor stages, while pet-centered events like the Running of the Chihuahuas raise funds for local animal shelters. Visitors can also check out The Municipal Fish Market, the oldest seafood market in the country, or rent a kayak to take out on the river.
Rooftop bars and cozy bookstores
The Wharf is home to several small, boutique shops and award-winning restaurants for residents and visitors to enjoy. The Politics and Prose bookshop, a DC institution, has a Wharf location that feels as cozy and enticing as the flagship store. Shop Made in DC is an ideal destination for unique souvenirs and handmade gifts ranging from pet collars to loose leaf tea.
The Wharf features restaurants that range from casual Mexican dining to high-end seafood served with waterfront views. The tri-level Italian restaurant Officina includes varied menus from small bites to be enjoyed on the rooftop, to sandwiches at the first-floor café. Milk & Honey serves Louisiana Lowcountry cuisine like gumbo and shrimp and grits.
Condo towers with community character
Condo buildings tower over the streets in Southwest DC, while residential town houses huddle along the southern tip on the Anacostia River. Housing options range from multimillion-dollar lofts to unassuming brick townhomes. Many of the developments feature sophisticated amenities like saltwater pools, balconies overlooking the waterfront, and concierge service. Some buildings were designed by world-renowned architects like I.M. Pei and Rafael Viñoly. “There’s a lot of historical value for people who are into architecture,” Diggs says. A 750-square-foot studio apartment may sell for around $275,000, while a luxury two-bedroom condo may command a $1.75 million selling price. Town houses may sell for around $775,000 for a two-bedroom dwelling
Despite the clusters of condo towers, resident Daniel Lincoln says the neighborhood maintains a welcoming community feel. “It has a sort of small but ‘tall’ town vibe. Around the holidays, you can see everyone's Christmas tree in their window while walking down the sidewalk.”
Public transit makes commuting simple
On the weekends, when concerts and events are being held at the venues, traffic can become more challenging, but Diggs says that many of the residents live in the Southwest DC neighborhood because public transit and walkability makes it easy to get around without a car. “If you take the metro, you can get to work within two or three stops. It’s a huge attraction for people who want to live here.” Two metro stations within walking distance can connect residents to other areas in DC, and the DC Circulator bus makes stops at the Wharf as well as other trendy neighborhoods.
Leading public and private schools
Students in Southwest DC may attend Van Ness Elementary School, which emphasizes academic and socio-emotional supports for students and has a B-plus rating from Niche. Jefferson Middle Academy is housed in a Georgian Revival-style building with a cupola and dramatic front columns and has a B rating. Eastern High School hosts the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program and has a C grade. There are also several private and charter school options for students that need a more specialized education.
Green space and cherry blossoms
As part of Pierre L'Enfant's original plan for the city, the waterfront is dotted with linear parks and green spaces that double as memorials. A fountain and paved walkway leading to The Wharf make up Benjamin Banneker Park, a public space dedicated to the groundbreaking African American scientist. Floral Park, known for its Cherry Blossoms and across-the-Potomac views of monuments, is also heralded for the vast array of tulips and flower beds. Residents can often be seen in the park taking in the waterfront views or reading a book.
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Southwest DC Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Southwest DC, Washington sell after 110 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Southwest DC, Washington over the last 12 months is $429,000, down 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
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