What to Know About Moving to DC
If you are looking for a new home, then consider the capital of the United States, Washington, DC. This worldly city sparks passion and drives in its residents. It’s a great place for young and ambitious self-starters or seasoned professionals looking to forge a new career path. Whatever the reason, a relocation to Washington, DC can help you find inspiration and a new way of living. So, here are a few things you should know if you are planning on moving to DC.
The people are ambitious
The people in Washington, DC are incredibly motivated and have high ambitions. The competitive, power-hungry nature of this city can be overwhelming. Instead of letting it intimidate you, use that drive to your benefit. Seek advice from a life coach or career counselor to help you determine your career goals and set up a solid career plan. Maybe you are looking for a career change or trying to find a new job? Maybe you want to earn a credential, certification, or master’s degree to help boost your career growth? With career counseling in DC, you can assess your strengths, get some interview preparation, and discover which opportunities might be a good fit for you.
The cost of living is high
Washington, DC is an incredibly expensive city, so be prepared to pay a lot more for housing and food. It’s a good idea to research neighborhoods before relocating and consult with agencies like Venterra Realty about your housing options. Working with a real estate company may help you find a community you like at a price you can afford. Generally, the closer you are to the city center the more expensive the rent will be. Take a look at apartment communities downtown and on the outskirts of Washington, DC to determine a suitable location for you.
Moving Around
DC traffic is no joke. It could take almost an hour just to get across this small city! Be prepared to leave early, expect traffic delays, and consider swapping your car for a Metro pass. If you’re moving locally as opposed to traveling a long distance — say from Maryland to Washington, DC — consider hiring local movers to transport your belongings. Some moving companies may provide discounts on local moves, so do your research ahead of time. Relying on local companies such as movers Maryland can help make your journey less exhausting and possibly more affordable. Because of the city’s small size, it might make sense to store some of your belongings as well. You can find a secure warehouse or reliable storage units online.
The dress code is conservative
While not everyone works in government here, it sure seems like they all adhere to a rather formal dress code. Professional attire is the norm and modest, conservative clothing is standard. You won’t find too many people donning casual outfits like hoodies and jeans (unless they work at a tech startup). So invest in a decent suit, especially if you plan to do a lot of networking and go on a spree of job interviews.
Taxes work differently
Be sure to familiarize yourself with the taxing system in DC, otherwise, you’ll be in for quite a financial surprise. Sales tax is 5.75% but purchases like alcohol, restaurant meals, and take-out orders are taxed at higher rates (around 10%). Garage parking and hotels are taxed even higher — at 14% and 18% respectively. Yet getting free entry into some of the world’s top museums and attractions might make up for all of the taxes. Most of Washington, DC’s museums are free, so at least you won’t have to worry about spending money on sightseeing.
