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Potomac Heights, Washington,DC

Neighborhood Data
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Potomac Heights is a charming neighborhood in Southeast Washington, DC, known for its welcoming community vibe and a mix of historic and modern homes. For those moving to the area, one of the biggest perks is the neighborhood’s proximity to the Anacostia River, offering lovely waterfront views and plenty of outdoor activities. Residents often enjoy spending time at nearby parks like Marvin Gaye Park, which features walking trails, sports facilities, and green spaces perfect for picnics or weekend relaxation. The neighborhood’s quiet streets and tree-lined avenues create a peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for families and individuals looking to settle down in a friendly, safe environment.

When it comes to attractions, Potomac Heights offers a unique blend of cultural and recreational spots. The nearby Anacostia Arts Center is a fantastic place to explore local art, attend performances, and participate in community events, making the area vibrant and culturally rich. Additionally, the historic Frederick Douglass National Historic Site is just a short distance away, giving residents easy access to an important piece of American history. Potomac Heights also benefits from its close-knit community feel, with neighborhood markets and local eateries that provide a taste of the city’s diverse culinary scene without the hustle and bustle of more tourist-heavy areas.

For commuters or those who enjoy city life, Potomac Heights is conveniently close to Downtown Washington, DC. It typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes to drive or take public transit to the heart of the city, making it easy to access major employment centers, museums, and entertainment venues. This balance of peaceful residential living with quick access to urban amenities makes Potomac Heights an appealing choice for anyone looking to relocate to DC. Whether you’re drawn by the natural beauty, community spirit, or cultural attractions, this neighborhood provides a wonderful blend that feels like home from day one.

Potomac Heights Demographics

Population 1,548
Density (People/sqml.) 3,681
Median Age 46.9
Married Couples
63%
63% of the population of Potomac Heights aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
40%
40% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Potomac Heights, 40% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

40% of people over 16 have children, so you're likely to find a balanced mix of family life and adult-oriented living. The neighborhood tends to feel lively without being overwhelming, with a good blend of young families, professionals, and long-term residents. Parks, playgrounds, and local schools contribute to a friendly community atmosphere, while quieter pockets and mature spaces appeal to those seeking peace and privacy. This balance makes the area welcoming to nearly everyone.

Age Breakdown

Potomac Heights neighborhood age breakdown chart

Potomac 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 1,548 residents, Potomac 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.

Potomac Heights has a population density of 3,681, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Washington neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 47, 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.

Crime in Potomac Heights

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Potomac Heights neighborhood crime breakdown chart

Potomac Heights Crime Map

The Potomac Heights 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

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Home Price $1,546,750
Median Rent $2,876
People/Household 2.6

Home Price Breakdown

Potomac Heights neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 18% Own 82%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 65% After 2010 35%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year Home Prices YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Potomac Heights, home prices come in around $1,546,750, 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 Potomac Heights 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 $2,876, rental rates in Potomac Heights 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.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Starbucks
Coffee Shop
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Bambu
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

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Attraction
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Food & Drink

Bethesda Market
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Wagshalls Liquor & Deli
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Groceries

Wagshal's Market
Grocery Store
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Safeway
Grocery Store
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Parks

Carolina Park
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Carolina Park
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Shops

Mimi's Convenience Store
Convenience Store
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Convenience Store
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

NW Loughboro Rd & NW Millwood La
Bus Stop
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Military Road at N Old Glebe Rd
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Sibley Memorial Hospital
Hospital
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Spring Valley Regional Outpatient Center
Clinic
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Health Care

Psychiatric Institute of Washington
Doctor
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District Smiles
Dentist
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Safety

DC Fire Department Engine Co. 29 Truck5 4811
Fire Station
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DC Fire Department Engine Co. 20
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Top Rated Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Duke Ellington School Of The Arts
3500 R St Nw, Washington, DC
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Woodrow Wilson Hs
3950 Chesapeake St Nw, Washington, DC
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Washington Waldorf School
4800 Sangamore Rd, Bethesda, MD
High School PK - 12 School Score
Little Flower School
5601 Massachusetts Ave, Bethesda, MD
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
The Lab School Of Washington
4759 Reservoir Rd Nw, Washington, DC
High School 1 - 12 School Score
Manor Montessori School-Bethesda
5450 Massachusetts Ave, Bethesda, MD
Elementary School PK - KG School Score
Our Lady Of Victory School
4755 Whitehaven Pkwy Nw, Washington, DC
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Potomac Heights 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 Potomac Heights 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.