We used our proprietary Location Scores to rank the neighborhoods in Washington D.C. based on the following characteristics that matter to retirees: Pedestrian-friendly, Transit-friendly, Parks, Groceries, and Quiet.

Here’s our list of the best neighborhoods for retirees in Washington D.C.:

1. Adams Morgan
2. Mount Pleasant
3. Columbia Heights
4. Logan Circle
5. Capitol Hill

Quantifying the characteristics of the best areas to live in Washington D.C. for retirees

Getting a sense of place in Washington D.C. through location data

Local Logic builds location intelligence solutions to help home seekers and investors find opportunities that are most suited to their preferences and requirements. We draw upon thousands of data points to develop 18 proprietary Location Scores to provide street- and neighborhood-level insights.

Location Scores measure amenities close by and mobility patterns around a neighborhood, so homebuyers can better understand and assess a location. Using our location insights, you can find properties based on specific characteristics, such as proximity to schools or quiet neighborhoods, and make more informed decisions on where to live.

Benchmarking neighborhood scores against Washington D.C.’s average scores

Below you’ll find the Location Scores for the best Washington D.C. neighborhoods for retirees, as well as the city’s average. We looked at the following scores:

• Pedestrian-friendly: Represents how many stores and institutions are nearby and how pleasant it is to walk to them
• Transit-friendly: Represents the frequency and level of service of public transit
• Parks: Quantity and area of parks nearby
• Groceries: Distance to closest grocery store and quantity of grocery stores nearby
• Quiet: Level of noise nearby

Then, we ranked each neighborhood by a composite score of all these factors.

Ranking the best neighborhoods in Washington D.C. for retirees

Here’s our data-informed list of Washington D.C.’s top neighborhoods for retirees:

1. Adams Morgan

The Adams Morgan neighborhood is described as eclectic and multicultural. If you’re a retiree who likes to be out on the town, 18th Street is where you can find the most action.

Otherwise, you’ll find a number of independent bookstores, artisan cafés, vintage clothing stores, and yoga studios to enjoy in the neighborhood. Two sizable green spaces include Unity Park and Kalorama Park, and Roofers Union is a popular restaurant in the neighborhood.

2. Mount Pleasant

Although it has a median age of 33, the Mount Pleasant area is highly rated for those to consider themselves to be of retirement age. The neighborhood boasts a small-town feel and has a lot of townhomes throughout. The area offers a lot of diversity in cuisine, like Purple Patch for Filipino, Beau Thai, and Dos Gringos Cafe.

If you want to pick up your own fixings and cook at home, Mt. Pleasant Farmers’ Market should be added to your weekly rotation. If you like to walk or bike, Rock Creek Park will be a frequent location on your list.

3. Columbia Heights

Columbia Heights is another D.C. neighborhood where Hispanic culture is at the forefront. The diversity of the area makes it another hub for eclectic dining options and bustling nightlife. Some of these options include The Wonderland Ballroom, which is a gastropub, and The Coupe, an American restaurant.

Check out what’s happening and connect with fellow community members at the Banneker Recreation Center, and entice the grandkids to attend Howard University, which is part of the HBCU network.

4. Logan Circle

The Logan Circle neighborhood primarily caters to the young (or the young at heart). On 14th Street, home decor shops and hip restaurants coexist in perfect harmony. Check out Barcelona Wine Bar for Spanish cuisine, Le Diplomate for French, and Birch & Barley for classic American fare.

The well-established Studio Theatre is the place to witness contemporary performances, and if you have a four-legged friend, Shaw Dog Park is the best place for both of you to socialize and have fun together.

5. Capitol Hill

Unlike some of our other top choices, Capitol Hill boasts a quieter nightlife, but you’re still in close proximity if you’re looking to change up the pace. The area is one of the oldest residential neighborhoods in Washington, D.C., and therefore presents a lot of architectural charm.

If you’re looking to play tourist in your own area, you can hop between the United States Capitol building, Library of Congress, and Supreme Court. On Barracks Row, you’ll find a number of bakeries, pizzerias, and global cuisine options. During the week, the Eastern Market sells produce, meat, and cheese, and then crafts and antiques on the weekends.

Finding the right neighborhood in Washington D.C. for your retirement

If you’re looking to enjoy retirement in a diverse neighborhood with a variety of food options, pedestrian-friendly pockets, and strong public transit, then one of our best neighborhoods in Washington D.C. for retirees could be the next place for you to call home.

Our Location Scores are available through Local Content on many of our partner sites and their real estate listings in Washington D.C.. When searching for your next home, or a new neighborhood, you can look for specific characteristics on each individual listing to find the perfect place for you.