Moving to Washington, DC

Those moving to Washington, DC are often surprised by how small the city – arguably the most powerful and influential in the USA – can be. Despite its iconic image as the centre of American power, DC is difficult to define, with ambiguous borders and a contrasting image.

The district is populated by little more than half a million people, yet the vast DC metro area borrows from neighbouring state land to create a metropolis ten times that size. 'DC' usually refers not only to the District of Colombia but also to parts of Maryland and Virginia that feed into the city.

The massive concentration of agencies, departments, businesses, consulates and young, eager professionals makes Washington, DC so dense with potential that people from all ends of the earth seem to be magnetically drawn to it.

Living in Washington, DC as an expat

New arrivals in Washington, DC will likely discover job opportunities in its thriving service industry, including sectors such as healthcare, education, finance and hospitality. Alternatively, newcomers can get involved in businesses that work alongside federal operations. Being the capital of the US, DC's biggest employer is the US government. 

With such an array of neighbourhoods in Washington, DC, new arrivals to the city will undoubtedly be able to find a spot that suits their lifestyle and circumstances. Unfortunately, the city is rife with inequality, resulting in high poverty levels. While newcomers are likely to live in better neighbourhoods, the unfortunate realities of living in a city with such significant discrepancies in income and relatively high crime rates are unavoidably noticeable.

Cost of living in Washington, DC

 The cost of living in Washington, DC is generally relatively high, especially as suitable quality accommodation is in high demand and therefore expensive. That said, those living close to the city centre will find that public transportation is fairly reasonable and there's really no need for a car when it comes to getting out and about. 

Expat families and children

There are plenty of good schools in Washington. New arrivals can send their children to public schools that fall within certain residential boundaries at a negligible cost, although these schools can vary in quality. There is also a good range of private and international schooling options, but fees are naturally much higher.

Outside of school hours, parents will find plenty to entertain the kids in Washington, DC. The city's many parks are lovely for a day out in the sunshine. Alternatively, educational fun can be had at the Smithsonian, where there are endless things to see and do, such as visiting the zoo or one of the many museums. There are also a host of events in the city each year to entertain the little ones.  

Climate in Washington, DC

Washington, DC, has a semi-continental climate. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging between 86°F and 91°F (30°C and 33°C). During winter, temperatures regularly drop well below freezing, and snowfall is common. Autumn and spring are the most pleasant times of the year and draw the most visitors to the city. The weather is generally warm, with clear skies. 

Washington, DC is particularly welcoming to newcomers. Most young professionals in DC have recently moved to the city to pursue careers before relocating again. There's a frenetic energy of friendship-making fuelled by numerous clubs, casual sports teams and nightlife. Newcomers are always welcome here.