Property Management in Washington D.C.: Living in the U Street Area

February 1, 2018 Washington DC

This article is part of a series of articles on the neighborhoods of Washington, D.C. In this series, you will find information to help you decide if a neighborhood would be the right fit for your prospective tenants. This article discusses the U Street neighborhood, including the area’s history, characteristics, attractions, and tenants who are likely to rent in the neighborhood. 

Facts and Figures

In the U Street neighborhood, 27 percent of homes are owner-occupied and 53 percent are renter-occupied. On average, there are two residents per home, and 16 percent of households have children. Residents spend a median of 2.9 years in the U Street area, and the annual residential turnover is 18 percent.

Neighborhood Atmosphere

U Street was developed in the late 19^th century, and many of the neighborhood’s Victorian residences were built in response to the housing demand in the aftermath of the Civil War. A large part of the neighborhood has been designated as a historic district due to these architecturally significant elements of the area. The neighborhood’s original commercial success was realized with the introduction of a streetcar line in the early 20^th century, which enabled easier neighborhood travel as well as business growth. In recent years, U Street has continued to thrive with a variety of restaurants, shops, and residential options, all of which appeal to prospective tenants. From art galleries to live music venues, this vibrant neighborhood is sure to please potential residents with its eclectic atmosphere.

Neighborhood Features

Dining and nightlife options in the neighborhood include Bistro La Bonne, Matchbox, Vintoteca, Policy, Busboys and Poets, Ben’s Chili Bowl, Tico, and Marvin. Other attractions in the area include The Lincoln Theatre, Howard Theatre, 9:30 Club, the Black Cat, DC9, Bohemian Caverns, U Street Music Hall, and Velvet Lounge. The abundance of restaurants and music venues in the U Street neighborhood undoubtedly appeals to tenants with diverse tastes.

Major Transportation

The neighborhood is very walkable and biker-friendly with a variety of public transportation options for prospective residents. The U Street-Cardozo Metro station is on the Green and Yellow lines of the Metro. In addition, Metrobus routes 63, 64, 90, 92, 93, 96, and X3 stop in the neighborhood. The D.C. Circulator also serves the area on the Woodley Park – Adams Morgan – McPherson Square route. In addition, car-free residents can use five-car shares available through Zipcar and RelayRides. WalkScore.com has assigned the U Street neighborhood a Walk Score of 97, a Transit Score of 86, and a Bike Score of 92, all out of 100 points.

Unique Neighborhood Events

The 14&U Farmers Market, located in front of the Reeves Center, is held Saturdays between 9 am and 1 pm from May to November. The organizers say the event “transforms a boring sidewalk into a lively marketplace Saturdays during the market season… every time the tents go up.” For additional information about the 14&U Farmers Market, you can visit the 14&U Farmers Market’s Facebook page for the most up-to-date event details and featured vendors.

The Funk Parade, a unique street fair and music festival, is held each May in the U Street neighborhood. For more information about the street fair, parade, and music festival, visit Funk Parade’s website.

For information on hiring a professional property management company with experience managing rental properties in the U Street neighborhood, learn why our company was voted the best management company in DC.