Capitol Hill vs Navy Yard
Compare these two popular Washington neighborhoods side-by-side.Capitol Hill is more affordable with 2BR rents at $2,900/mo.
Capitol Hill
MORE AFFORDABLEHistoric, political, family-friendly
2BR Rent$2,900/mo
90
Walk
85
Transit
88
Bike
Navy Yard
New development, waterfront, young
2BR Rent$3,100/mo
85
Walk
82
Transit
80
Bike
Rent Price Comparison
Monthly rent by bedroom type
| Unit Type | Capitol Hill | Navy Yard | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,600 | $1,700 | $-100(-5.9%) |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,000 | $2,100 | $-100(-4.8%) |
| 2 Bedroom | $2,900 | $3,100 | $-200(-6.5%) |
| 3 Bedroom | $4,100 | $4,400 | $-300(-6.8%) |
Which Neighborhood Wins?
affordability
Capitol Hill
Average rent is $133/mo lower
transit
Capitol Hill
Transit score: 85 vs 82
walkability
Capitol Hill
Walk score: 90 vs 85
nightlife
Tie
Both neighborhoods have comparable nightlife scenes
families
Capitol Hill
Good public schools
young Professionals
Navy Yard
New development, waterfront, young
commute
Capitol Hill
10-15 min to downtown
Capitol Hill Overview
Historic neighborhood surrounding US Capitol with beautiful rowhouses, Eastern Market, and political community.
Best For
Political workersFamiliesHistory loversCommunity-minded
Pros
- +Historic rowhouses
- +Eastern Market
- +Walkable
- +Community feel
Cons
- -Variable safety east of 8th
- -Limited nightlife
- -Parking difficult
- -Expensive
Safety
Good (varies)
Commute
10-15 min
Nightlife
Moderate - Barracks Row bars, casual spots
Schools
Good public schools
Navy Yard Overview
Rapidly developing waterfront neighborhood with Nationals Park, new condos, and Anacostia Riverwalk.
Best For
Young professionalsSports fansNew building seekersWaterfront lovers
Pros
- +New buildings
- +Waterfront access
- +Metro access
- +Growing amenities
Cons
- -Still developing
- -Limited character
- -Some areas empty
- -Expensive
Safety
Good (improving)
Commute
10 min
Nightlife
Active - sports bars, rooftops, new venues
Schools
Limited residential presence
Key Takeaways: Capitol Hill vs Navy Yard
- Affordability: Capitol Hill offers lower rents with 2BR averaging $2,900/mo compared to $3,100/mo.
- Walkability: Capitol Hill has the edge with a Walk Score of 90.
- Transit: Capitol Hill offers better public transit access (Transit Score: 85).
- Commute: Capitol Hill (10-15 min) vsNavy Yard (10 min) to downtown.
Which Neighborhood is Right for You?
Capitol Hill is ideal for political workers and families, offering historic, political, family-friendly vibes. Navy Yard suits young professionals and sports fans, known for its new development, waterfront, young atmosphere.