Let the numbers do the talking.
Shaw, DC vs Adams Morgan, DC
Shaw, DC vs Adams Morgan, DC: What the data shows
Shaw, DC is in Shaw, DC while Adams Morgan, DC is in Adams Morgan, DC — both in the same state. On home prices, Adams Morgan, DC is the more affordable option at $723,100 median — $100,700 less than Shaw, DC's $823,800. WYLT rates Shaw, DC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Adams Morgan, DC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Adams Morgan, DC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Shaw, DC has Moderate violent crime and High property crime. Adams Morgan, DC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Shaw, DC has Low flood risk and Adams Morgan, DC has Low flood risk.
The two neighborhoods are similarly walkable. Shaw, DC scores 95/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Adams Morgan, DC's 95/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Shaw, DC rates 7.4/10 and Adams Morgan, DC rates 7.4/10.
| Category | Shaw, DC | Adams Morgan, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $824K | $723K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $2K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $133K ✓ Higher income | $132K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 95/100 | 95/100 |
| Transit Score | 75/100 ✓ Better transit | 55/100 |
| Bike Score | 65/100 | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 4 min ✓ Shorter commute | 7 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.4/10 | 7.4/10 |
| Best for | young professionalsstudentsdiverse culture seekers | Young professionalsCreative artistsStudents |
Bottom line
For someone who values food and culture in a bustling urban environment, Shaw might be a slightly better fit because of its lively food scene and solid public school options. However, both neighborhoods are equally walkable, expensive, and suitable for young professionals, so Adams Morgan might be a better choice for those who prioritize nightlife and a more vibrant entertainment scene. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal priorities and what you value most in a neighborhood.
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