Landlord Resources
Make Your Lease Legally Binding and Court-Proof
A poorly written lease can lead to thousands in lost rent or court fees. A bad lease can cost you thousands.
•9 min read
What to Know About
Living in Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., the epicenter of American politics and culture, is a city that has much to offer. Located on the banks of the Potomac River, it's steeped in history and is home to some of the country's most famous landmarks and museums. From the awe-inspiring White House and National Mall to the world-renowned Smithsonian museums, you'll find something new to discover around every corner. The city's rich history is visible everywhere, from the U.S. Capitol and Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument and the countless other impressive offerings like the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the National Gallery of Art.
Sports enthusiasts can cheer on their favorite teams, from the Washington Commanders (NFL) to the Washington Nationals (MLB), and catch a game at the city's state-of-the-art sports venues. And with events like the National Cherry Blossom Festival and the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, something exciting is always happening.
Washington, D.C., is a city that has something for everyone with its dynamic energy, unparalleled amenities, and top-quality living standards. So it's no wonder why so many people choose to make it their home.
Rental Market Trends
Washington, DC
As of July 2025, Washington's rental market is competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units. Washington, DC's average rent is equal to the District of Columbia average of $2,191 and 23.4% ($416) higher than the U.S. average of $1,775.
Average Rent
$2,191
Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change
3.4% ($78)
Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
14.1% ($360)
Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market
35
| Unit Type | Average Rent | Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change | Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bed | $1,944 | 1.8% ($35) | 16.1% ($373) |
| 2 Beds | $2,914 | 26.6% ($613) | 7% ($218) |
| 3 Beds | $3,340 | 23.7% ($640) | 16.8% ($674) |
| Nearby Cities | Average Rent | Avg. Rent vs. WashingtonAverage Rent vs. Washington | Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arlington | $2,723 | 24.3% ($532) | 19 days |
| Mount Rainier | $1,357 | 38.1% ($834) | 30 days |
| Takoma Park | $1,756 | 19.9% ($435) | 31 days |
| Chevy Chase | $1,974 | 9.9% ($217) | 26 days |
| Bladensburg | $1,485 | 32.2% ($706) | 30 days |
Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Washington Rental Market FAQs
Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in Washington, DC.
The average rent in Washington, DC is $2,191 per month.
Homes in Washington typically rent for between $1,361 and $4,342 per month, with an average of $2,191 per month.
In Washington, the average rent for a 1-bedroom home is $1,944 per month, for a 2-bedroom home, $2,914 per month, and a 3-bedroom home is $3,340 per month.
The average rent in Washington is 23.4% ($416) higher than the national average of $1,775 per month.
The average rent in Washington has decreased by 3.4% ($78) in the last month and decreased by 14.1% ($360) over the past year.
The rental market in Washington, DC, is currently competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units.
In Washington, DC, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 35 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.
There is currently 1,030 rental property available in Washington, DC.
Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $116,560 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom home in Washington.
