Garfield Heights, Washington,DC

If you’re considering a move to Southeast Washington, DC, Garfield Heights is a neighborhood worth exploring. Known for its close-knit community vibe and charming historic homes, this area offers a unique blend of urban living with a touch of tranquility. The neighborhood’s tree-lined streets and well-maintained parks make it an inviting place for families and individuals alike. Residents appreciate the strong sense of community, with local events and neighborhood associations fostering connections among neighbors. Whether you’re looking for a quiet stroll or a lively block party, Garfield Heights provides a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home.

One of the standout attractions in Garfield Heights is the beautiful Garfield Park, a green oasis perfect for outdoor activities, picnics, and weekend relaxation. The park is a favorite spot for locals who enjoy jogging trails, playgrounds for children, and open spaces for gatherings. Additionally, the neighborhood boasts an array of local eateries and small businesses that give Garfield Heights its distinctive character. From cozy coffee shops to family-owned restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The area also benefits from convenient access to public transit, making it easier to explore other parts of the city without hassle.

Living in Garfield Heights means you’re just a short trip away from Downtown DC, typically about a 15 to 20-minute drive or a quick ride via Metro. This proximity allows residents to enjoy the bustling city life, including museums, theaters, and shopping districts, while retreating to the peaceful surroundings of their neighborhood at day’s end. For those relocating, the combination of accessibility, community spirit, and local amenities makes Garfield Heights an appealing choice. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone seeking a quieter pace without sacrificing city perks, this neighborhood offers a balanced urban experience.

About 20% of the Garfield Heights population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 27% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Garfield Heights demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 4,671 residents, Garfield Heights is notably smaller than many other Washington neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Boasting a population density of 19,475, Garfield Heights is more densely populated than many other Washington neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With a lower-than-average age of 29, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

The Garfield Heights crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Garfield Heights, the median home price is about $264,000, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Garfield Heights have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,177, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Garfield Heights. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Garfield Heights offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.