Is anyone else feeling like maybe it’s time to think seriously about leaving DC? I’ve lived here over a decade and I love this city, but between the recent violence and now Trump floating the idea of a federal takeover again, it feels like everything is more volatile than ever. I know violent crime overall isn’t skyrocketing, but the tension is so palpable lately. Part of me wonders if staying here is worth the stress, or if I’m overreacting. Has anyone else hit this crossroads?
https://www.axios.com/2025/07/08/trump-taking-over-dc
Love all the folks here talking about the “decline” of DC. Y’all should’ve been here in the 90s. That said, if you have the chance to go somewhere else, do it. You can always come back!
Can’t live your life reacting a a guy who blabbers something at a press conference then changes his mind more than he changes his undies.
On the crime, grime and decline of DC, though, yes the city has lost its appeal.
DC is a city and a certain amount of crime, dirt and inconvenience comes with the great restaurants, nightlife and “culchah”. You take the good with the bad, or you get out. But this place is in the best shape it’s ever been in; you are clearly just too young or too new to remember its days as the “Murder Capital,” presided over by Mayor for Life Marion Barry. 😂😂
If you’re waiting for DC politics and crime to calm down, you’ll be waiting forever. This city thrives on chaos. If you can’t stomach it, maybe it’s time to pack up—no shame in that, but it won’t get easier.
Yeah just accept the multiple shootings in a week in the city and endless robberies. The problem is you don’t you see because you don’t have the stomach - not the refusal of governance or law and order.
If you can afford to leave then leave. If you have the choice and the finances - then you really aren’t doing too bad compared to most people out there.
The city has been going down hill for years. A lot of my colleagues left, and they took their DC salary with them or found something comparable. No shame in it. If your not comfortable or its no longer for you. Just leave
Yes. The city eventually whittles you into a neoliberal and moderate. you think you have power and free will but you’re really being played by those above you