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.
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.
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Parks in this Area
Benjamin Banneker Park
Trails
Events
Kings Greenleaf Recreation Center
Baseball/Softball
Picnic Area
Tennis
East Potomac Park
Baseball/Softball
Tennis
Trails
3rd & I Street Park
Playground
Walking Paths
Randall Recreation Center
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Pool
Southwest Duck Pond
Picnic Area
Walking Paths
Southwest Waterfront Park
Picnic Area
River
Walking Paths
Lansburgh Park
Basketball
Dog Park
Picnic Area
7th Street Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Events
Transit
Airport
Ronald Reagan Washington Ntl
15 min drive
Train
L'enfant
Subway
Federal Center Sw
Subway
L'enfant Plaza
Subway
Waterfront-Seu
Bus
P St SW & 4th St SW
Bus
4th St SW & I St SW
Bus
M St & 4th St SW Wb
Bus
3rd St SW & M St SW
Bus
4th St SW & N St SW
Bus
Independence Ave & 12th St Eb
Bus
2nd St SW & R St SW
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Southwest DC
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
7
4
Burglary
6
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Southwest DC, Washington sell after 112 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Southwest DC, Washington over the last 12 months is $679,823, up 28% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
RELOCATING TO WASHINGTON, DC? Do you need to be close to the Capitol and the Federal Agencies? This prime location at 612 4th Place SW is less than 2 miles away, more convenient than the Capitol Hill area. This extra spacious 3 LVL, 4Bed/3.5 Bath brick home features assigned parking, a large private stone patio, & is less than 1 mile to the famous SW Waterfront & Wharf offering numerous dining +
This beautifully renovated townhome in the SW Waterfront neighborhood is a true gem. Located within the gated community of River Park, it offers such a peaceful retreat you'll forget that you are in the vibrant SW Waterfront community. The open-concept first floor with floor-to-ceiling windows floods the space with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. Inside, the home boasts
Welcome to your charming new home in the heart of a Vibrant Wharf! This inviting 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment in the Riverside Condominium offers a warm and contemporary atmosphere, perfect for relaxation, and entertaining . Step inside to discover an open floor plan adorned with beautiful wood floors, creating a seamless flow throughout the living and dining areas. The well-equipped kitchen
Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms and Fireworks from this extra large one bedroom at Harbour Square! This stylish and move-in ready 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offers a private balcony and modern conveniences. The sleek kitchen boasts contemporary cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a stylish subway tile backsplash. Enjoy the ease of an in-unit washer and dryer. Plus invite your guest to stay a
Luxury Waterfront Living at Peninsula 88 - 88 V Street SW, Washington, DC Unit 203 is a stunning two-bedroom (owners' suite and flexible den/bedroom), two-bathroom residence at Peninsula 88. Nestled in the vibrant Buzzard Point area of the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, this home offers breathtaking water views and unparalleled access to some of DC's most exciting attractions, including
Enjoy modern living in this light-filled, three level, town home in the SW Waterfront community of Capitol Park IV. Enter this beautiful home on the main level, featuring a well appointed kitchen and dining area/family room, that extends out to a private, tree-lined courtyard, just perfect for entertaining, and there is a powder room on this level for your convenience. The second level
Inspired by the work of legendary landscape architect Dan Kiley, our luxury apartments in DC combine thoughtful amenities with an ideal location in the historic Southwest Waterfront neighborhood. Live life poolside on our rooftop, lounge amongst designer details in the courtyard, or enjoy an afternoon playing video games with friends and neighbors in our clubroom. This is a lifestyle of
This is a true luxury condo, professionally designed, and a pleasure to live in. The gorgeous corner unit offers open views overlooking beautiful green grass, with a bedroom and living room soaked in natural sunlight every morning.The unit features fresh paint, newly finished hardwood floors, a luxurious kitchen with stainless steel appliances, LED light fixtures, a washer/dryer combo,
Welcome to The Westerly, a new apartment community in the heart of Southwest Washington, DC. 1 block from Waterfront Station and 3 blocks from The Wharf, The Westerly offers modern, inviting studio 1 & 2 bedroom apartment homes and 15 unique amenities from the first floor to the rooftop in an unmatched location. Enjoy connected, collaborative spaces from a rooftop pool and terrace with sweeping
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Alexis Wise,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
19,020
Median Age
39
Population Density
16 ppl/acre
Population under 18
16.9%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
16%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$91,463
Above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$121,396
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
89.8%
College Graduates
67%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
37.1%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
74.8%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
42''
Average Winter Low Temperature
31°F
Average Summer High Temperature
89°F
Annual Snowfall
13''
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
55/ 100
Somewhat Walkable
Walk Score®
61/ 100
Good Transit
Transit Score®
65/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
