About the Washington D.C. Area
Overview
The Washington, D.C. Metro Region is one of the most popular areas in all of America for prospective homebuyers. When discussing the Washington Metro Region one is certain to consistently hear the phrases "best of" or "most" this or that. For instance, the Brookings Institute has listed the Metro Region as the most educated area in all of America, not just once, but every year for 40 years. Also, out of every region in America, the Metro Region has the highest average income in all of America. The American College of Sports Medicine's American Fitness Index also listed the Metro Region as one of the healthiest areas in America. The ranking noted that residents have widespread access of health care and fitness facilities and that residents tend to have low obesity rates and low tobacco use
Washington DC
Economy
The Federal Government, which employees 140,000 people, primarily drives the Washington Metro Region's economy. Large portions of residents also work for defense and civilian contractors that support the Federal Government. However, in recent years the Metro Region has increasingly become home to a variety of non-government related businesses. In 2009, American City Business Journal listed the region as the second best high tech center in America, behind only Silicon Valley. The region also contains the highest concentration of science and engineering workers out of anywhere in America. There are also hundreds of major research universities, think tanks, and non-profit organizations.
Washington DC
Economy
The Federal Government, which employees 140,000 people, primarily drives the Washington Metro Region's economy. Large portions of residents also work for defense and civilian contractors that support the Federal Government. However, in recent years the Metro Region has increasingly become home to a variety of non-government related businesses. In 2009, American City Business Journal listed the region as the second best high tech center in America, behind only Silicon Valley. The region also contains the highest concentration of science and engineering workers out of anywhere in America. There are also hundreds of major research universities, think tanks, and non-profit organizations.
Keeping Busy
The Washington Metro Region is filled with thousands of activities and cultural opportunities that are certain to keep any potential homebuyer busy for years. In downtown Washington, D.C. there are dozen of museums that are either free or cost a nominal fee. These museums are national treasures, such as the various Smithsonian museums. Come to learn about everything imaginable, from art to space, there is something for everyone to explore. Washington, D.C. is also home to the immensely popular National Zoo. Make sure to stop and pay a visit to Mei Xiang and Tian Tian, two of the only Pandas currently located in the United States. Not interested in living directly downtown? In the towns and cities surrounding Washington, D.C. there are hundreds of museums and cultural activities throughout the year. Just take a look at anyone of the city-specific pages located on this site.
The Washington Metro Region is also home to a vibrant theatre and music scene. Located downtown, the Kennedy Center is widely recognized as one of the premier theatres in America. On any given night, one can expect to see a world-class performance that may have just been featured on Broadway, such as Les Miserables, the South Pacific, or Wicked. The Verizon Center, located in the very popular Chinatown area, also brings in a number of national musicians and performers.
Washington, D.C. also offers a variety of sporting events. The Washington Capitals-America's hockey team-call the Verizon Center home and during the fall and winter months play a number of riveting games there. The Washington Nationals also call D.C. their home, and the Washington Redskins play and practice just a short distance outside of the city.
Recreation
Ever imagine playing a game of soccer, kickball, or touch football on Congress's front yard? Well, that's exactly what you can do and will observe every weekend at the Mall in Washington, D.C. The Mall, which is more aptly described as a flat grass park, is the focal point of Washington with the Washington Monument and Congress at its two ends. In the summer, many area residents love to go to the Mall to take pictures, picnic, or just take a nap. The Mall is also the location of most of the Smithsonian museums, a number of embassies, and a many government agencies. Every four years, area residents have the ability to become a part of history by coming down to the Mall for the Presidential Inauguration. There are also hundreds of acres of parkland spread throughout the Washington D.C. Area. State Parks, National Parks, and Community Centers are located in nearly every community within the Metro Region. With every imaginable amenity offered, such as pools, sports fields and courts, ice skating rinks, there is certain to be something to keep every potential homeowner busy for years.
Transportation
The Washington Metro Region is well connected through the WMATA metro rail and bus system, which allow many residents to go completely car free. Most communities outside of downtown Washington, D.C. are also connected through dozens of bus lines and metro rail stations. Residents in the communities surrounding downtown Washington are also served by the MARC Train, Virginia Railway Express and Amtrak, which allow for an easy commute to the city or to neighboring communities. Many communities operate their own bus routes in addition to the routes provided by WMATA.
