Hillcrest, Washington,DC

If you're considering a move to Southeast Washington, DC, Hillcrest is a charming neighborhood that might just capture your heart. Known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community, Hillcrest offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life while still being conveniently close to downtown. Residents here enjoy a variety of single-family homes with classic architectural styles, providing a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to settle into a friendly neighborhood, Hillcrest offers a balanced lifestyle that's both relaxed and vibrant.

One of the standout features of Hillcrest is its impressive access to outdoor activities and green spaces. Fort Dupont Park, a beautiful and expansive natural area, is right at your doorstep, perfect for hiking, picnics, and weekend strolls. The park also hosts community events and festivals throughout the year, making it a social hub for locals. Additionally, Hillcrest boasts some lovely local shops and eateries that give the neighborhood a unique flavor without overwhelming residents with commercial bustle. For families, the area is served by some well-regarded public and private schools, adding to its appeal for those relocating with children.

Despite its serene vibe, Hillcrest is only about a 15 to 20-minute drive from Downtown DC, making it an excellent choice for commuters who work in the city but prefer a quieter living environment. Public transportation options, including nearby bus routes and accessible Metro stations, make navigating the city relatively easy. This proximity allows residents to enjoy all the cultural attractions, dining, and entertainment that downtown offers, while returning home to a peaceful neighborhood that feels like a true community. If you’re looking to combine suburban charm with urban convenience, Hillcrest in Southeast DC is definitely worth checking out.

About 32% of the Hillcrest 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 13% 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.

Hillcrest 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 959 residents, Hillcrest 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 6,822, Hillcrest 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.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 45, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

The Hillcrest crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Hillcrest, home prices come in around $467,725, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Hillcrest can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $1,637, rental rates in Hillcrest are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School ratings in Hillcrest combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Hillcrest can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.