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 dwellingDespite 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.
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 Southwest DC neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Southwest DC
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
8
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Southwest DC Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Southwest DC, Washington sell after 76 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Southwest DC, Washington over the last 12 months is $406,000, down 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience the ultimate indoor-outdoor lifestyle in this rarely available 1-bedroom home featuring a private 400 sqft patio. Perfect for urban gardeners, outdoor dining, or sunset lounging, this massive terrace effectively doubles your living space in the heart of the SW Waterfront. Inside, the home offers a bright and airy open layout, reflecting the iconic mid-century modern aesthetic of
ASK ABOUT HOW YOU CAN GET 8 MONTHS PAID COOP FEES--OVER $10,000 VALUE!!!!!Live on the water just moments from The Wharf in this mid-century modern co-op featuring a spacious private balcony in the heart of the Southwest Waterfront. Enjoy this spacious one-bedroom corner unit filled with natural light, showcasing floor-to-ceiling windows and two sets of sliding glass doors that open onto an
Welcome to 707 7th Street SW, Unit 126, located in one of the Southwest Waterfront's true gems. This generously sized one-bedroom residence is filled with natural light and thoughtfully updated, offering the perfect blend of modern finishes and comfortable living. The renovated kitchen features brand-new quartz countertops and new stainless-steel appliances, while updated flooring and a refreshed
Extra-Large 1-Bedroom Co-op with Balcony & Parking | Tiber Island, SW Waterfront DC Welcome to Unit W602 at 490 M Street SW! This extra-large 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom co-op offers a sprawling 959 square feet of living space in the heart of Washington, DC's highly sought-after Southwest Waterfront. Positioned perfectly on the sixth floor, this home features a spectacular private balcony with rare,
Sunny & Move-In Ready in Southwest Waterfront **Ask about a credit to the buyer for 12 months of co-op fees! ** This 807-square-foot apartment home pairs charm with modern updates — 1245 4th St SW #E207 is a spacious 1-bedroom, 1-bath co-op at Tiber Island in Washington DC's vibrant Southwest Waterfront neighborhood. The apartment offers an updated kitchen featuring stone countertops, ceramic
Oversized Studio with Parking in SW Waterfront Welcome to #N502 at 430 M Street SW — an extra spacious studio co-op in the sought-after Tiber Island community. Located in the dynamic Southwest Waterfront, this sunlit apartment makes an outstanding value! Bigger Than a One-Bedroom This is not your average studio. With approximately 630 square feet of well-designed living space, Unit N502 offers a
It's summer time on the SW Waterfront and the River Park community has something for everyone! Nestled in the coveted SW Waterfront neighborhood, this end unit, mid-century modern townhouse offers a harmonious blend of luxury and comfort, perfect for those seeking an elevated lifestyle. With three spacious bedrooms and two and a half elegantly appointed bathrooms, this residence is designed for
Resort-Style Living at Harbour Square Co-op in the SW Waterfront! Welcome to Unit S522 at 520 N Street SW, a spacious and bright studio co-op located in the heart of Washington, DC's vibrant Southwest Waterfront neighborhood. Just minutes from The Wharf, Capitol Hill, the Yards and Audi Field, this updated 591-square-foot apartment features a smart layout with a dedicated bedroom alcove –
CONVEYS FULLY FURNISHED. This unit is the perfect turnkey DC pied-a-terre for commuters or owner occupants looking for a smooth, move-in ready home. Please note that the active Harbour Square coop rules require 2 years of ownership prior to renting. Harbour Square Cooperative, one of Southwest Waterfront’s most desirable gated communities, where city living meets a peaceful, waterfront lifestyle.
Welcome to Unit E711 at Tiber Island, a beautifully renovated junior one-bedroom offering modern sophistication in the heart of the Southwest Waterfront. This stylish residence features a completely updated kitchen and bathroom, providing a contemporary aesthetic that is ready for immediate move-in. For those seeking the ultimate convenience, this unit can be sold turnkey with all furnishings
Experience the best of DC waterfront living in this beautifully maintained one-bedroom, one-bath residence in the highly sought-after Southwest Waterfront neighborhood. This light-filled home offers generously sized rooms and a private balcony with serene water views. The condo fee includes all utilities, providing effortless, low-maintenance living. One garage parking space is available for
PRICE IMPROVED to allow you to make this space your own pied-a-terre in SW DC! Welcome to Unit E110 at Tiber Island, an elevated first-floor studio offering a rare combination of outdoor space, natural light, and flexibility in one of DC’s most established cooperative communities. This well-laid-out studio sits above street level and features a spacious south-facing balcony, ideal for enjoying
Experience the epitome of light-filled, mid-century modern living in this impeccably maintained studio at the historic Harbour Square. Unit N430 offers a rare combination of architectural charm and thoughtful functionality, perfectly situated in the heart of the vibrant SS Waterfront. Step into a wall of glass featuring spectacular floor-to-ceiling windows and a stunning solarium-style slanted
Welcome home to Potomac Place Tower! Unit # S525 is the studio you've been looking for! This spacious studio has updated floors in the main living space, upgraded bathroom vanity with a quartz countertop, large walk-in closet, and a private balcony perfect for enjoying a morning cup of coffee! With easy access to the Wharf, Nationals Park, Audi Field, Arena Stage, and much more, you are always
Waterside Towers offers convenient on-site amenities, thoughtful details, and versatile floor plans in Washington DC. Now offering furnished and unfurnished apartments, these DC apartments feature an oversized balcony and absolutely breathtaking views of the DC area. Select apartments feature dual French door entryways and updated finishes. Enjoy our indoor and outdoor swimming pools,
Welcome to this bright and fully furnished studio offering beautiful views of the Potomac River with all utilities included. Riverside is a welcoming and well maintained waterfront community just moments from DC’s Wharf and the Waterfront Metro station. Enjoy everything Southwest DC has to offer right outside your door including The Wharf, The Anthem, Arena Stage, the Rubell Museum, Navy Yard,
Just steps from the National Mall, an extraordinary SW DC apartment community effortlessly weaves together an alluring mix of historic character, contemporary style, effortless city access, and unexpected tranquility. Annex on 12th is a unique expression of past, present and future that invites you to craft an enduring story of your own.
What if the everyday were extraordinary? Enter Vermeer, a rarified collection of apartment residences in Capitol Riverfront. With sumptuous living spaces, welcoming hospitality offerings, and brilliant experiences to explore adjacent to both Audi Field and Nationals Park, Vermeer is a connected, expressive community at the forefront of Southwest D.C.'s emerging Buzzard Point neighborhood.
Welcome to Artline Apartments, a bold expression of modern living in the heart of the Southwest Waterfront neighborhood. From striking architectural details to curated spaces designed to inspire, every corner of our community reflects the city's vibrant creative culture. If you were looking for apartments in DC that match your vibe, this is it. Think sleek finishes, programmable thermostats, and
Welcome to Valo Apartments in the heart of Southwest Washington D.C.! As part of Bernstein Management Corporation, you can count on a few things - an enjoyable D.C. neighborhood, great apartments, and a friendly, helpful team focused on making your life easier. We want to ensure your experience at Valo is hassle-free, so all you have to worry about is where to put your couch.Nestled in a
Urban comfort and unrivaled convenience are waiting for you at Capitol Park Plaza & Twins. Each of our high-rise buildings features spectacular city views and offer studio, one, or two bedroom apartments for rent just blocks from the Southwest Waterfront in Washington, D.C. Enjoy quick and easy access to the Southwest Waterfront, National Mall, Capitol Hill, Washington Marinas, and many more D.C.
Welcome to Lex & Leo at Waterfront Station, where modern living meets waterfront elegance in the heart of Southwest DC. These premier waterfront DC apartments offer a thoughtfully designed sanctuary featuring gleaming stainless steel appliances and sophisticated granite countertops that catch the morning light. Your spacious studio, one, or two-bedroom apartment in SW DC becomes your personal
Step into gallery 64 and step up to a lifestyle of artistic sophistication and cultural stimulation. surrounded by commissioned works of art and breathtaking views of the D.C. skyline, these brand-new luxury residences feature highly appointed finishes, curated amenities and proximity to some the city's most famous destinations.
Just south of the Navy Yard, at the tip of the new Buzzard Point neighborhood, an unprecedented waterscape awaits. This is the setting for modern apartment living on the city's most expansive waterfront. RiverPoint Apartments features iconic architecture from award-winning firms: Scandinavian interior design by Tengbom and landscape design by West 8. Wide open living spaces offer panoramic views
Now Leasing Brand New Apartments. Perfectly placed at the entrance to The Wharf, The Banks embodies the unique, mid-century charm of historic Southwest DC. Delivering the finest in amenities and modern apartment residences infused with contemporary comfort, The Banks offers spectacular experiences wherever you turn.This information is a general overview of potential costs. For a complete
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