Located in Northwest Washington, D.C., Columbia Heights is a prime area neighborhood. Featuring a diverse population — and filled with ample spots for shopping, dining, and entertainment — this is a wonderful place to move. Top local hotspots include the DC USA shopping mall, Piney Branch Park, Meridian Hill Park, and the Powell Recreation Center.
Thinking about moving to Columbia Heights? Learn more about what it is like to live in this popular Washington D.C. community.
Where is Columbia Heights?
Columbia Heights is a bustling urban neighborhood that is located in Washington D.C. It is situated approximately two miles north of Downtown Washington D.C., and is minutes away from the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, The Lincoln Memorial, and The White House. Due to its convenient location, it is ideal for those who work in and around Downtown.
The total area of Columbia Heights is .85 square miles. It borders surrounding communities such as Lanier Heights, Park View, Pleasant Plains, and Cardozo.
Map of Columbia Heights
Columbia Heights History & Overview
The population of Columbia Heights is 34,835. First established in the late 1800s (after once being only farmland), this community became a popular place to live by the early 1900s. It now has a continuously growing population. One interesting fact about Columbia Heights is that the area is extremely diverse in terms of its racial and ethnic composition.
Columbia Heights demographics:
- Columbia Heights population: 34,835
- Household income: $79,273
- Men vs. women: 50 percent male, 50 percent female
- Median age: 31.4
- Foreign-born population: 11.1 percent
- Racial & ethnic composition: 37 percent White, 31 percent Black, 22 percent Hispanic, six percent Asian, three percent two or more races
What’s it Like Living in Columbia Heights?
There are plenty of excellent reasons to relocate to Columbia Heights. One of the biggest is the nearby amenities that can be found throughout the neighborhood.
Along (and just off of) 14th Street SW, there is a thriving commercial district for residents and visitors to enjoy. This area is highly walkable, and features historic architecture. Many buildings are styled with Colonial and Victorian facades. There are also select apartment and condo buildings that boast modern style exteriors, which creates a one-of-a-kind vibe throughout the neighborhood.
In the main part of Columbia Heights, locals have convenient access to highly-rated restaurants, big box retailers (such as Target and Best Buy), and a collection of locally-owned shops.
On top of being close to numerous retailers and eateries, Columbia Heights is also known for its unparalleled outdoor spaces. Despite being in the middle of a busy city setting, there are ample places for residents to get outside for exercise and leisure. Hands down, one of the best outdoor spaces in all of Columbia Heights is Meridian Hill Park. This sprawling, family-friendly park is located on the southern side of the neighborhood. Spanning an impressive 12 acres, visitors can enjoy the park’s gorgeous fountain and reflecting pool, the Joan of Arc Statue, and scenic walking paths.
Life in Columbia Heights is the ideal blend of suburban charm and bustling city life. Individuals who relocate to this neighborhood will definitely feel as if they have the best of it all. Over its recent history, it has been in transition as the neighborhood becomes more and more gentrified.
Things to Do in Columbia Heights — Best Restaurants, Attractions & Shopping
Curious about the many things to do in Columbia Heights? Because of the neighborhood’s prime location, there is plenty to do on any day of the week. Explore a sampling of the top places for Columbia Heights residents to shop, eat, and visit.
Columbia Heights D.C. Restaurants
Foodies at heart will not be disappointed by the unparalleled selection of restaurants in Columbia Heights. No matter the type of cuisine you crave, you’re sure to find something that delights your taste buds.
Among all of the restaurants, cafes, and bars in Columbia Heights, there are several stand out establishments. Makan is one of them. This creative eatery serves up delicious Malaysian dishes in a bright and eclectic setting. Partake in their expertly curated menu of noodles, appetizers, rice dishes, craft cocktails, and more for brunch, midday dining, and dinner.
Another exceptional restaurant in Columbia Heights is The Coupe. This beloved restaurant is praised for its unique menu of American fare. On the menu, you’ll find scrumptious baked goods, all-day brunch offerings, burgers, sandwiches, house cocktails, and a full coffee and espresso bar. The Coupe offers indoor dining and outdoor patio seating that is dog-friendly.
Shopping in Columbia Heights
Whether shopping for the essentials or browsing for leisure, DC USA is the place to be. This Columbia Heights shopping mall is located in the heart of the neighborhood — at the corner of 14th Street SW and Park Road NW.
What will you find at DC USA? Among the long list of retailers that have set up a brick and mortar at this mall, popular stores include Target, Best Buy, Marshalls, Bed Bath & Beyond, Old Navy, and Petco.
Columbia Heights D.C. Things to do & attractions
Aside from its unmatched selection of shops and restaurants, Columbia Heights is well-known for its many things to do. Across the neighborhood, there are a multitude of community parks and gardens to explore on your days off.
On the southern part of the Columbia Heights neighborhood, take time to check out the always popular Meridian Hill Park, the Euclid Street Community Garden, and Girard Street Park. Traveling north, the Powell Recreation Center provides sports fields and programs for kids, teens, and adults. 11th and Monroe Street Park and dog-friendly Park Road Park are two more excellent places to spend time in Columbia Heights.
- Makan. 3400 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20010, 202-730-2295.
- The Coupe. 3415 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20010, 202-290-3342.
- DC USA. 3100 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20010, 202-232-4047.
Schools in Columbia Heights
Columbia Heights is encompassed by the District of Columbia Public Schools school district. Without having to leave the neighborhood, there are several excellent schools for students of all ages.
One of the best schools in Columbia Heights is Benjamin Banneker High School. Open to students in grades 9 through 12, this school maintains a perfect 10/10 rating on GreatSchools.org. Nearby, Bancroft Elementary School is also rated as a 10/10 school, and is open to students in pre-kindergarten through 5th grade.
Is Columbia Heights Safe?
Columbia Heights has safe places to live. While the neighborhood’s overall crime rate is higher than the national average, this is true throughout Washington D.C. Some of the best places to live in Columbia Heights include the northern and southern parts of the community — which are located near quaint local parks.
Columbia Heights Real Estate
New residents can easily find a desirable home, condo, or townhouse for sale in Columbia Heights. The current median home price in Columbia Heights is $749,900. Whether you are seeking a compact-sized home that is within walking distance of bars and restaurants, or a quiet and spacious property that is perfect for the whole family, there is something for every lifestyle and budget.
Getting ready for your upcoming move to Columbia Heights? Let our Columbia Heights movers at Suburban Solutions make the experience one that is stress-free and hassle-free. With over 5,000 customers served, a 98 percent referral rate, and 9+ years in business, we know what it takes to deliver exceptional relocation services. Contact us today for your custom moving service quote.
