Living in Washington, D.C. on $28K | 6 Tips on How to Afford City Living on a Budget

Here's how to live in Washington D.C. on a budget. I'll provide the 6 tips that helped me survive on less than $30K in Washington, DC. These financial tips cover everything, from Housing options to living off FREE STUFF - like breakfast, lunches & dinners. So pay close attention because you’ll learn how to not only survive, but thrive in one of the most expensive cities in the United States!
As a former Congressional staffer, my starting salary was $28K (before taxes). Since DC is an expensive city, and the salary did not reflect the cost of living, I hustled my first couple years. I want to emphasize that even with a low salary, you can still thrive in DC, you just have to be smart about what your financial priorities are. Would you rather have a ‘luxury apartment’ or have extra money to build savings and have experiences like go out with friends.
For me, I chose the latter. It is important to me to live a quality life. I did not, I repeat, DID NOT live a cheap life sacrificing fun. Instead I found ways to be financially savvy and lived my BEST DC life. Now I’ll share 6 tips on how you can afford living in DC!
//TOPICS
00:00 Intro
00:57 Quick overview on my DC life
02:12 Tip #1: Starts with a B...
04:43 Tip #2: Where I lived
08:81 How to find inexpensive, livable housing in DC
09:36 Tip #3: What I ate
11:09 Tip #4: BEST way to save on food & fun
11:35 Tip #5: How to make more money & what my DC side job was
12:24 Tip #6: How to get FREE FOOD in DC
// BUY ITEMS
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// SAY HI
Add me on Instagram: @Melissa_Dargan
Twitter: @Melissa_Dargan
// OTHER VIDEO LINKS
Budget Like a Pro - • Build a Budget Like a ...
8 Financial Secrets of Working in Congress - • Working in Congress | ...
// CONTACT
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// ATTRIBUTION
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// DISCLAIMER
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The content on my KZbin videos and other social media platforms is for educational purposes only and is based on my personal opinion. It's not meant to be investment or professional financial advice. I am not a financial advisor, certified accountant or a tax professional. You should speak to a licensed professional for financial or tax decisions if necessary. Remember that investments involve some form of risk and there is no guarantee that you will be successful in making, saving or investing money; nor is there any guarantee that you won't experience any loss when investing.
#LivingInDC #DCBudget #HowToMakeDCAffordable

[@MelissaDargan]

Any other D.C. living tips? Let me know what else you do that I may have missed!

[@briaralaric3487]

I dont mean to be off topic but does anybody know a method to get back into an Instagram account? I stupidly forgot the password. I would love any assistance you can offer me.

[@samsterling4217]

@Briar Alaric Instablaster ;)

[@GuyAye]

Judging by that wedding ring you’re now thriving in DC lol.

[@MelissaDargan]

Definitely thriving ☺️. After working on Capitol Hill, I went to Business school and started my company - TourTrackr.com. Given where I started, I’m looking forward to sharing more on how to handle personal finances and build wealth to help others achieve their financial goals!

[@ariacampos]

You’re so awesome thanks so much! Love the “trifecta” I’m taking notes! I’ll be working on the hill this fall.

[@MelissaDargan]

Congrats and welcome to DC! Get excited for what Capital Hill has to offer 👍🏼.

[@erickbitter]

LMAO this lady is hilarious, but she also has some good ideas!! I remember when I was just starting out building my 1st business & right after college when I was working for a big food company. This really takes me back. Life is what you make it, and it sounds like she's really on the grind!!

[@MusicLovesME93]

you're a great speaker, enjoyed the video.

[@MelissaDargan]

Thanks!

[@alhusaini2916]

Very valuable information 💁‍♀️ 👌

[@MelissaDargan]

Thanks! Hoping it helped 👍🏼

[@powerWithinUs4055]

Outrageously good, Melissa. You have great skill. For living situations, we can’t just rely on CL. My advice…make a flier or talking business card. Every opportunity to network leave it, link it. Make the information specific, but guarded. No sense in revealing too much traceable information, it’s unnecessary. Don’t rush this, work on it. Once done, you've got a master. I always say to people…follow up is a must. Walk up to me, and I think, no, not today…the minute you’ve walked away, I think of something. Hey wait, maybe I do have that afterall. It never fails. Clean gutters? No, just had it done. You walk away…hmmm, shoulda asked if ladders could be used for window washing. Follow up. Couple days later, circle back with web address or business card. If you are willing to do childcare….Melissa….walk around. Find elegant homes, leave your card. Families need childcare. Be fussy though, no infants, toddler and above. Older kids need supervision, people can’t be found…but …live in? Hmmmmm. You’re looking for English basement or carriage house, separate quarters, free rent, walk to work. Real estate agents know about the families, keep posted with them, circle back. There are many people who would love to rent an extra room, but don’t know how, or find it too complicated…it is. Find them. Just walk around. Tip of the day….works when your room share or apartment hasn't had a bite……Open House 1-4. That gets people in, it’s an incentive with focus. Works every time. Take a bow, Melissa, this is great… add a tip jar in the form of a Thanks icon.

[@ducheau100]

When I moved to DC in the late 90s I made 28K. It was hard to survive back then. I can't imagine what it is like now.

[@augustusx82]

I think your friends that moved to VA or MD didnt come back into the city to hang out because there's so much to do in both of those places for fun.

[@PraveenSrJ01]

I lived in Washington DC in the summer of 2005 doing an internship with FEMA HQ through Bender Consulting for $10/hr which was okay at the time but had to dip into my savings account. I had a great time and traveled 🧳 and saw the whole city 🏙️ in the weekend. Crime was a lot less in 2005 than it is today in 2024.

[@GUTOMOFFICIAL]

Good job Melissa! How about for tourists on a budget?

[@MelissaDargan]

Good question! I’ve actually added this topic on the list for a future video. A good tip is when things are open again, members of Congress will help you schedule DC tours for FREE. Think tickets to the WH, FBI, Treasury, Capitol etc. Each Member of Congress may offer slightly different tour sites, but it’s all FREE 👍🏼. Also visiting the monuments and Smithsonian’s are free too.

[@DJGARY91]

Hi! Great and inspiring video! Do you know about row houses in Merrifield, VA??

[@MelissaDargan]

Thanks and I have not heard of any room openings in Merrifield. If I do, I’ll let you know 👍🏼👌🏼. GL on the search!

[@DJGARY91]

@@MelissaDargan thank you! Same type of home you had in DC. Merrifield is where my job is located and I’d love to just ride my bicycle!

[@MelissaDargan]

That is definitely an ideal situation! Will keep you posted if I learn of any row houses opportunities.

[@GGMEHD]

a studio for 1500 now? I'm moving

[@user-ic1ii7ky8p]

I would get roommates, but I have a small dog :( My options are very limited. Even in Nova and MD, studio apartments are too expensive. I can’t spend more than $1,200 per month, which is already 3/4 of my income. I don’t know what I’m going to do. I’m trying to find a better job but don’t have a degree and live paycheck to paycheck (so I can’t even afford certifications). Looks like the DC housing lottery is my only real option

[@jessecalderon2323]

my situation is similar! I also have a dog :) I am studying right now I am getting my HS credentials then I'll study IT for free IN DC There are many schools. The Academy of Hope is one of them!!

[@sarscov9854]

I have to relocate to that area soon, what are the cheaper parts? I don't mind if I don't live in good neighborhoods. I'll be on around $40k a year.

[@MelissaDargan]

It sometimes depends on what kind of housing your looking for. For me, I lived in NW Logan circle / 14th street (an expensive area) for under $700/mo in a group home. Other friends who wanted their own studios or apartments were paying $2000+. Then, my next place was by Capitol Hill (SE). Rent at that group house was under $800/mo. It is more about finding affordable housing options than targeting a cheap neighborhood. Many parts of DC have affordable and expensive options in the radius of one block. Do you know what kind of living situation you are looking for?

[@sarscov9854]

​@@MelissaDargan the offices where I'll be working are located in Reston, VA, but from the bit of research I've done, rents look a bit pricy there. Preferably, I'd like to be to the west of the river, but housing seems cheaper in DC or maybe even Rockville right now. Hopefully rents don't skyrocket after the pandemic is declared finished.

[@reenuverma4875]

I'm placed at Logan Circle 14th Street at 14$ per hour , where do I find housing

[@ViNguyen-db8zf]

Wait... 6 tips to survive on a $28K income in DC, but you add side hustle as one of the tips? Isn't that beat the purpose of surviving on $28K?

[@MelissaDargan]

Good question and I think a side hustle is complementary. Making $28k is really around $23k after taxes, so a side hustle helps supplement what is lost in taxes 👍🏼

[@W0lfm0ther]

After watching hundred of cost of living videos in the U.S. (looking to relocate), I’m finding that everyone has their own depiction of expensive lol Alot of you East Coast youtubers complain that your cities are expensive omg WAIT TIL YOU COME TO SAN FRANCISCO. You can rarely find a studio at these prices in a decent neighborhood. Though living here has worn me down to the bone, I feel that I can make it anywhere now. Maybe you’ll see me in DC in the near future ;)

[@MelissaDargan]

Totally agree with you that San Francisco is definitely expensive!

[@danmiller2177]

I lived in Washington DC 4500 a month for one bedroom apartment, the night mare of crime, roads are closed with no notice, I moved to Virginia take the VRE to Washington doing 100% better, I hope my employer moves out Washington to Virginia....

[@MelissaDargan]

Wow! Glad to hear you are in a better location. I did forget about the road closures and blockades for when the President or other dignitaries are in town. Also, all the events, parades and celebrations make getting to places in DC difficult by car.

[@danmiller2177]

@@MelissaDargan thanks!!!😃😃😃😃

[@danmiller2177]

@@MelissaDargan events is nice word, I'm talking crazy protesters and fights on the streets.... And gas being fired by the police.... And I was paying 53,000 yearly rent....😔😔😔😔😔😔😔😔

[@danmiller2177]

I'm telling my friends and they're friends not to live in Washington DC its very dangerous.... Anything could happen at anytime.....

[@atlntcostv7293]

All these videos don’t tell the truth.. dc is a scam. Ur not surviving on less than 30k Unless you have family you can stay with that’s Bs

[@officialalonzo263]

It’s possible to live on this salary in DC, but it’s going to be in the hood for sure

[@MelissaDargan]

Good news is that some friends have found great living options in the main city. They compromise by living with roommates. That said, affordable living around DC is hard to find on $28k

[@Cool-last-name]

@@MelissaDargan wow. living with a roommate is an ok option if you if you are in your 20's. Otherwise that comment sounds, shall I dare say, clueless or condescending.

[@MelissaDargan]

@@Cool-last-name thanks for sharing your thoughts. I think having a roommate can be a great way to cut living costs. I lived with roommates/ housemates until my early 30s. Many friends I know in DC have roommates and they are in all age ranges - 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s and older. Some do it to save money, some do it to live with friends, etc. What is interesting is even Members of Congress have roommates when they are in DC to reduce cost of living: www.google.com/amp/s/www.nbcwashington.com/news/national-international/dc-rent-is-too-high-how-members-of-congress-make-it-work/54969/%3famp

[@cjnance008]

If you are making 28k and want to live in the district there is no other option except shared space. Even east of the river in the middle of the hood you will not find a living situation we’re you are paying out under 1000 for food, utilities, and rent.If you are making less than 60k and want to live in the city it will be rough for you on your own unless you don’t care about the neighborhood then you could be ok In the mid to high 50ks but will be very limited to certain neighborhoods and it will still be extremely tight but If you are making less than 40k and want to live in the city you really need to find a roommate because options will be next to 0 outside of living in certain project housing.

[@MelissaDargan]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Rent, utilities and cost of living in general run higher in DC than other cities in the US. This makes finding a place to live, in the DC area, on a low salary hard. I appreciate your insights!

[@cjnance008]

@@MelissaDargan Thanks! sometimes I believe people think we are exaggerating when it comes to cost of living in this area and I just wanted to add my insight to help set expectations. Moving here from Richmond VA years ago was a shock financially so if I can help alleviate that shock for others than I'm all for it but I am from NY originally so I understand high cost of living. One thing I would like to add for your followers is don't get discourage by the cost of living. We have one of the best job markets in the nation and because of the government related jobs we don't usually feel the effects of a declining job market as much as other cities (there is money to be made here) and if you do start making money and are able to purchase property, do it ASAP! There has been a steady incline in property value everywhere in this city regardless of the neighborhoods reputation. I purchased in South East two years ago and it was the best investment I've made so far. I fear that in another 10 years us regular folk wont be able to afford this city at all. Keep striving and good luck to you all, I wish everyone prosperity and good health! Also you have great content!

[@luxartesian8971]

How do you get on lists if you are new to town and don’t know where to begin?

[@MelissaDargan]

Best ways to get added to event lists is to ask a coworker to get you looped in. When I started on Cap Hill, the scheduler in the office shared 5 different list-serves I should join and sent me the email of the person who ran it at that time. Where are you working in DC? On Cap Hill? Federal agencies? Or other? Side note: COVID19 has temporarily affected the receptions. So atm no events are going on, but once things start up again, you’ll definitely want to be looped in!

[@luxartesian8971]

@@MelissaDargan thank you so much! I’m currently looking for employment here. Not sure how to connect with companies and I came across your video. Things are different with applying now that covid had taken place. Any leads?

[@MelissaDargan]

Depending on which sector (Private? Government? Or Non-profit) you are looking for, there are different ways to search for DC jobs. One thing that I have found that helps in all sectors is doing informational interviews. If there is someone you know or may have a connection to, I'd try to schedule a 'virtual coffee chat' (given COVID). You can share that you are looking for a job, have a resume ready and be clear where you'd ideally like to work. Networking in DC is where I have learned about job openings that are not even posted! Depending on what you are looking for, here are some DC sites that may help: (GOV): House Employment Bulletin - www.house.gov/employment/positions-with-members-and-committees/subscribe-to-the-house-employment-bulletin (GOV): Senate Employment Bulletin - www.senate.gov/employment/po/positions.htm *(DC Jobs): Tom Manatos: www.tommanatosjobs.com/ *(DC Jobs): Brad Traverse: www.traversejobs.com/ *Heads up these are pay to use websites. Just sharing since DC friends have found good postings on these sites. GL applying and if there are specific sectors or companies you are thinking about, I encourage you to check LinkedIn and see if anyone in your network works for those companies. If yes, schedule an informational interview with them. Share that you are interested in working for their company and ask if they can pass your resume if there is an opening.

[@luxartesian8971]

@@MelissaDargan omg!! This is so helpful!! I shall do all of the above!!! I’m so glad I came across you and your video!!!!

[@MelissaDargan]

@@luxartesian8971 Happy to help! DC job hunting can be daunting especially given COVID. Wanted to share one last thing I just got today. If you are interested in a position in an incoming Senate office, please submit your information to the link below. GL!!! docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScp31dz8epPhgpz2GbQ-XrhtLS32tXdoRu9RNMc-_nADhah6A/viewform

[@kevintyson1947]

I was hoping u disclose your rent amount and how many roommates you had on that salary and the neighborhood u lived at. I'm a DC born and raised native with a low income but honestly none of these tips were really helpful. Bringing your own lunch and eating rice and pasta is stating the obvious when you already can't afford any type of takeout or happy hour anyway

[@MelissaDargan]

Hi Kevin, appreciate the feedback. To answer your question, I paid $675/mo and lived in a row house with 3 other people (so 4 in total). We each had our own rooms and the row house was 3 stories. 2 people per floor with the first floor set as the common area, dining area and kitchen. The location of the row house was by Logan Circle. Hope this helps!

[@supermario929]

So pretty!

[@lussoclean7345]

you made only 28k /year I'm confused or did you come with 28k in your savings

[@MelissaDargan]

Hi! My salary was $28k/ year when I first started working in Congress. Hope that helps clear up the confusion 👍🏼

[@TizBaz5]

Do you see the multiple roommate situation working out in a WFH scenario?

[@MelissaDargan]

Great question and for me, I’m an extrovert so I think WFH with housemates can come in handy as long as each housemate has a productive workspace (ex: a desk area in their bedroom or in an area in the house that allows one to be productive). In a wfh scenario, I’d still like to have interaction with others at some point in the day and housemates facilitate that. For someone who is introverted, housemates and wfh may not be ideal. It will just depend on they type of person you are and what you need to be productive at work. Do you think your work will be wfh indefinitely? Or is wfh temporary?

[@TizBaz5]

@@MelissaDargan thanks for your reply. I'll be moving across the country to DC for a federal computer- and health care-oriented job, located north of silver spring and almost certainly at least fifty percent remote. I'm slightly on the introvert side, and although I do like to have pleasant people to interact with, I think of be kind of worried about being able to concentrate and program or be able to have a serious conference call with a room full of doctors. So it's something I'm on the fence about with no clear answer. 🙍

[@MelissaDargan]

@@TizBaz5 That makes sense. A number of friends opted to have a studio as they wanted to have absolute privacy. That said, in one of the row houses I lived in some of the housemates had their own floor to themselves. Their room and bathroom was on a floor and no other housemate shared that floor. So you may be able to find a row house where you can have your own floor, which may give you the privacy you’ll need for work. Heads up, row houses like those can be rare, but that option may be the kind of compromise your looking for if you decide to have housemates. Alternatively deciding on a studio may be the other option. Moving across country definitely takes work. GL!!!

[@TizBaz5]

@@MelissaDargan thanks for your advice!

[@sarscov9854]

Wait, side hustle? Was that included in your $28k/year? or did that bump you up an extra $5k untaxed? That would make your video somewhat misleading.

[@MelissaDargan]

Thanks for asking! To clarify, the side hustle did not bump me up. In total, after taxes, my net was below $28k. The suggestion of getting a side hustle is to share some options to increase ones income if needed. Hope this helps!

[@vinyasa748]

Girl, $28k while the ppl you work for making millions from insider trading 😷😷😷

[@violetsky__7649]

Dc sounds like such an alcoholic city 😂

[@Rylucero]

If I had been in your situation, I’d be drinking too….:/