Welcome to Columbia Heights

Columbia Heights is a true crossroads and cross-section of generations and cultures. With its concentration of schools, housing options, and mix of national retail and local eateries, residents of all ages have found a reason to put down roots.

Key Details

NEIGHBORHOOD OVERVIEW

Commute Times
Metro Center 17m by train, 13m by car
Union Station 22m by train, 17m by car
Dupont Circle 27m by train, 10m by car
Reagan National Airport 23m by train, 21m by car
Nearest Metro
  • green line
  • yellow line

Around the Block

Columbia heights:
A multicultural city within the city.

Developed at the turn of the century as a streetcar suburb of Washington, Columbia Heights began as a fashionable community with a commanding view of the city. The neighborhood has seen several demographic and economic shifts since then, but more recently it’s undergone a dramatic renaissance of development and revitalization, making it one of the city’s most diverse, energetic, and livable neighborhoods.

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What to expect:
The convenience of nearby shopping and entertainment amid tree-lined residential streets.

Corner stores, a major metro stop, and bus lines mean that you can leave your car behind. 14th Street is the neighborhood’s traditional core, and it has been reinvigorated as the central gathering place for shopping, cultural events, and a seasonal farmers market. With its quaint commercial buildings, 11th Street has become a hot destination for innovative and independent restaurants and bars.

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The lifestyle:
Urban living with a relaxed community feel.

Columbia Heights has its own bustling commercial downtown, but also quieter eclectic spots just blocks away. While national retail stores dominate 14th Street, the neighborhood prides itself on its variety of mom-and-pop shops and small ethnic eateries. Despite massive redevelopment, the neighborhood has held on to many of its cultural landmarks like the historic Tivoli Theatre. You’ll be recognized as a regular at your local restaurants, bars, and dives. An abundance of local schools and play spaces dot the streets, creating a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. While other similarly dense parts of the city give off a frenetic energy, Columbia Heights takes itself a little less seriously, moving at its own pace.

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Unexpected appeal:
Diamonds in the rough.

Though Columbia Heights has seen its share of major new construction populated by chain retailers, the neighborhood still feels a bit rough around the edges in a decidedly good way. From the corner bodega to your favorite hole-in-the-wall ethnic restaurant, Columbia Heights retains its urban appeal.

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The market:
Relatively more affordable homes and newly constructed condos.

Several new condo buildings provide modern conveniences with stunning city views. Large row homes have been restored as single-family homes, condos, or group houses. There is also a large selection of more modest homes with coveted backyard space.

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You'll fall in love with:
The convenience and relaxed pace, combined with a sense of place.

Elegant row homes line quiet side streets just steps from bustling commercial corridors.

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