I Live In Washington, D.C. — Here’s How Much It Costs

Living in Washington, D.C., a hub of political power and cultural richness, presents a unique series of challenges and rewards for its residents. For Cory Rattell, a 29-year-old professional navigating life in the nation’s capital, the experience has been a mixture of comfort and financial juggling as he finds his footing in a city notorious for its high cost of living.

Cory relocated to D.C. in November 2022 to join a small nonprofit organization focused on international financial institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. His annual salary of $82,000 provides a comfortable lifestyle compared to many, yet D.C. has a reputation for being relatively expensive, particularly when it comes to housing. Cory’s most significant monthly expense is undoubtedly rent, with his studio apartment in the northwest area costing around $2,000. Despite the financial strain, living close to work has its perks—the central location affords him a mere 25-minute walk to the office.

The Cost of Basics

Despite his good income, Cory is acutely aware of his financial landscape. Grocery shopping often leads him to Whole Foods, a choice that chips away at his budget due to its premium pricing. “It’s literally right around the corner from our apartment,” he explains, though he recognizes that this accessibility comes at a financial cost. Spending daily for groceries is a practice he adopted from his boyfriend, a cultural nuance from Europe that contrasts sharply with the American tradition of bulk shopping. “The fridge is often very empty,” he admits, underscoring a lifestyle where they prioritize fresh ingredients purchased regularly instead of stocking up.

Grocery shopping is just one aspect of Cory’s financial routine. An effort to save consistently while managing day-to-day expenses creates a delicate balance. “I have been able to save more than I have ever saved in my entire life,” he explains, but balancing this with the comfort he seeks can be a challenge. Living within such financial parameters leads him to quirks in spending. For example, he makes a conscious choice to stick to a modest grooming budget, heading to the barber every six weeks and spending a total of just $27 on a haircut.

Military Service as a Catalyst for Growth

Cory’s life took a new twist in 2023 when he joined the Army Reserve, shipping off for basic training about a month after his move. This experience proved to be a significant period of growth, both mentally and physically. He described the training as mentally taxing, culminating in a level of discipline and broken down resilience that has equipped him to tackle everyday stresses with newfound fortitude. “Everyday life stuff that may have been more challenging in the past, I’m more conditioned to be able to deal with something like that,” he states, highlighting the complexities of adapting to a military lifestyle alongside his civilian responsibilities.

For many, the decision to join the military stems from various motivations; for Cory, it provided a structured environment during a time of life transition while also cultivating personal growth. This duality of life—civilian challenges intertwined with military obligations—adds to Cory’s rich tapestry of experiences in the city.

A Complex Relationship with Finance

Cory and his boyfriend, whom he met during a humanitarian Peace Corps mission in Ukraine, have created a unique financial arrangement that allows them to navigate their lives together while maintaining individual financial responsibility. When it comes to larger expenses, they clearly split costs such as rent and recurring bills, while day-to-day purchases are often pooled informally, depending on need. This dynamic allows them not just to cope with expenses but fosters a sense of partnership amid financial management.

Their shared history and experience living together in a new country has undoubtedly shaped their relationship. Cory reflects on the culture shock upon his arrival in America, but he also cherishes the moments spent together, whether grocery shopping or exploring the city’s plethora of free museums—which are a significant cultural advantage to residents like him.

Travel: The Ultimate Splurge

Despite the financial balancing act that life in D.C. presents, travel remains a cherished priority for Cory and his boyfriend. They took an epic road trip last summer, covering 6,200 miles in just 19 days, visiting 12 different national parks across the western United States. Such experiences not only allow them to explore and bond but also serve as a reminder that fulfilling moments often arise outside the constraints of everyday life.

All these varied experiences contribute to Cory’s understanding of money, moving from a background of privilege to a life of calculated financial responsibility in a city that constantly challenges its residents to rethink spending. Cory acknowledges receiving financial support from his family in the past, but he maintains a personal commitment toward independence, limiting financial reliance on them since he turned 21.

In a city with an ever-present backdrop of hustle and bustle, the financial journeys of individuals like Cory reflect broader trends experienced by many young adults today. The balancing act between enjoying life and securing financial futures is a reality faced by most, further complicated by the unique financial history and aspirations rooted deeply within one’s upbringing.

As D.C. continues to evolve and grow, providing opportunities for personal and professional development, Cory’s story serves as a testament to resilience and adaptation, two qualities that are essential for navigating the multifaceted landscape of life in the capital.