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Wesley Heights, Washington,DC

Neighborhood Data
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Wesley Heights is a charming neighborhood in northwest Washington, DC, known for its peaceful streets and beautiful historic homes. If you're moving to this area, you'll enjoy the blend of suburban tranquility with the convenience of city living. The neighborhood features lovely tree-lined avenues and a strong sense of community, making it perfect for families, professionals, and anyone looking for a friendly environment. Residents often appreciate the well-maintained parks and green spaces, providing great spots for weekend picnics, jogging, or leisurely strolls.

One of the standout attractions in Wesley Heights is the nearby Glover-Archbold Park, a natural oasis with walking trails that offer a serene escape from the urban hustle. The neighborhood is also close to the American University campus, which brings a youthful energy and plenty of cultural events, including lectures, performances, and art exhibitions. For everyday needs, there are several cozy cafes, local restaurants, and boutique shops within easy reach, giving residents plenty of options to explore without having to travel far.

Despite its peaceful vibe, Wesley Heights is conveniently close to Downtown Washington, DC, making commuting straightforward and efficient. Whether you prefer to drive or use public transportation, you can reach the heart of the city in approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This proximity allows residents to enjoy all the major attractions, business centers, and entertainment venues downtown has to offer while retreating to a calm and welcoming neighborhood at the end of the day. Wesley Heights truly offers the best of both worlds for those relocating to the nation's capital.

Community Snapshot

Population 4,953
Density (People/sqml.) 8,589
Median Age 41.3
Married Couples
46%
46% of the population of Wesley Heights aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
20%
20% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

20% of the Wesley Heights population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 20% 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.

Age Breakdown

Wesley Heights neighborhood age breakdown chart

Wesley 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 4,953 residents, Wesley 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 8,589, Wesley 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 an average age of 41, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Wesley Heights

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Wesley Heights neighborhood age breakdown chart

Wesley Heights Crime Map

The Wesley 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

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Home Price $931,470
Median Rent $2,122
People/Household 2.0

Home Price Breakdown

Wesley Heights neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 35% Own 65%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 46% After 2010 54%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Wesley Heights, home prices come in around $931,470, 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 Wesley 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 $2,122, rental rates in Wesley 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
min.
min.
Davenport Coffee Lounge
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Amphitheater
Theatre Arts
min.
min.
American University Museum at the Katzen
Museum
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Ace Beverage
Alcohol
min.
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Subway
Fast Food
min.
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Groceries

Towers' Market
Grocery Store
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Wagshal's
Grocery Store
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Parks

Park
Park
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Voorthuis Opticians Inc
Optician
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Lee Tower Market
Convenience Store
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

South Campus
Bus Stop
min.
min.
Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

Tenleytown–AU
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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Health Care

The Joint Chiropractic
Doctor
min.
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AllCare
Doctor
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Safety

Washington District of Columbia Police Department District 2
Police
min.
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Metropolitan Police Boys and Girls Clubs
Police
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
River School
4880 Macarthur Blvd Nw, Washington, DC
Elementary School PK - 3 School Score
Woodrow Wilson Hs
3950 Chesapeake St Nw, Washington, DC
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Beauvoir The National Cathedral Elementary School
3500 Woodley Rd Nw, Washington, DC
Elementary School PK - 3 School Score
Key Es
5001 Dana Pl Nw, Washington, DC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Maret School
3000 Cathedral Ave Nw, Washington, DC
High School KG - 12 School Score
Mann Es
4430 Newark St Nw, Washington, DC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Stoddert Es
4001 Calvert St Nw, Washington, DC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Wesley 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 Wesley 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.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $104,409
Household Income $161,772
Unemployment 3.6%

Income Breakdown

Wesley Heights Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Wesley Heights, median household incomes average $161,772, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In Wesley Heights, the unemployment rate sits at around 4%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

Wesley Heights primarily features historic single-family homes, many built in the early to mid-20th century. The architecture includes Colonial Revival, Tudor, and Craftsman styles, giving the neighborhood a charming and classic feel. The homes often have large, tree-lined yards, contributing to the area's suburban atmosphere within the city.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Yes, Wesley Heights hosts several community events that bring neighbors together, including seasonal block parties, garden tours, and holiday celebrations. The Wesley Heights Citizens Association organizes neighborhood cleanups and social gatherings, fostering a strong sense of community. Nearby parks such as Wesley Heights Park also serve as venues for outdoor events and family-friendly activities.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Wesley Heights is conveniently located near major roadways like MacArthur Boulevard and Foxhall Road, providing easy access to Interstate 66 and the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Public transit options include nearby bus lines that connect residents to the Foggy Bottom-GWU Metro Station on the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines, making commuting to Downtown Washington, DC, straightforward.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

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