Eckington

Middle class heaven, one would never think that this neighborhood was only a mile away from the stress and ambition of the Capitol and its surrounding streets. This is where the government employees return after the work day (when there isn't a good happy hour). With charming townhouses of various shapes and sizes, and a rich (and random) history that includes anecdotes about receiving electricity long before the White House, Eckington has acquired a quirky, endearing personality that, rather than falling by the wayside as some of its surrounding neighborhoods have down, continues to evolve with the city, growing and changing and yet still maintaining a quaint, small town feel.

Eckington is a neighborhood of approximately 4,138 residents that is in both the northwest and northeast sections of the city. The neighborhoods boundaries are defined by New York Avenue N.E., Florida Avenue N.W., Rhode Island Avenue N.W. and the railroad tracks to the west of Brentwood. In 2010 the average price of homes sold in this neighborhood were $311,169, with 40% being owner occupied. Homes here are typically row style attached residences. In Eckington there are a number of large commercial businesses including Federal Express.

The two schools located in the neighborhood are the Emery Education Campus and McKinley Technology Senior High School. Residents will find at least 7 places of worship as well as numerous restaurants ranging from fast food to carry out. Shopping options are limited although there are several places within the neighborhood. Public transportation is excellent with the Rhode Island Metro station being nearby as well as several Metro Bus stops. It appears that green space is limited in this neighborhood to the area directly around McKinley Technology High School, but most homes have lots of trees in their yards. Some may find the noise from the train tracks nearby problematic.

Crime statistics indicate that crimes against people and property do occur in Eckington. As always check the recent crime statistics and make an informed decision concerning the crime risk prior to moving into any neighborhood.

Eckington is a tight-knit, active and middle class community near the Capitol. Full of stately Victorian homes, Eckington has a lot of beautiful green spaces. Their community association is very active, and local politicians make sure they have whatever is needed. Although there are large homes and yards, Eckington is unique because it contains an old rail yard from the B&O Railroad. This dates from the days when electricity was new, and the District wasn’t as built up. It is also one reason why Eckington has a secluded, exclusive air: getting in and out of the area by car is somewhat difficult. Fortunately however, there is a Metro stop nearby, and many residents take advantage of this every morning.
Naturally, the railroad has its drawbacks: primarily, the noise from trains can be unpleasant. Nonetheless, the community doesn’t let this bother them too much, and the tracks provide a barrier to separate them from the less savory parts of town.
Housing values are on the rise, and so are apartment rents. Unlike many neighborhoods, Eckington seems to be able to have both coexist without losing any of its semi-suburban character. There is some shopping in a small commercial district, and everything else can be easily accessed with a short Metro ride to the commercial district by the Capitol. Schools in the area are better than some other parts of the city.

Eckington is one those city neighborhoods that everyone dreams of living in. Dominated by middle class single homes and chic apartment complexes, the area also has every type of amenity one could want. There’s a local Harris Teeter grocery store, a two recreation centers with a swimming pool and tennis courts and a full service gym.
There’s also a nice hotel nearby and a number of good restaurants, including the just opened Engine Company 12. Try the Pizza & Tavern for something light or the Mediterranean food at The Perfect Pita. If you just want something to drink, try Tynan Coffee & Tea.or the Big Bear Cafe.
One of the outstanding qualities about this neighborhood is its community spirit. Citizens have been known to gather together casually at one of the above eateries, and to in more organized settings, such as the periodic safety walk.
Even in this economy, single family homes are still selling well, with on recently going for around $400K. While this is pretty pricey in most parts of the country, that is typical for a DC upper middle class neighborhood.