The Chevy Chase neighborhood in Washington D.C. offers an ideal blend of suburb and city. Located along the border of Maryland and D.C., its well-kept lawns, shaded sidewalks, and proximity to local shopping centers make it one of the most desirable places to live in the greater Washington D.C. area.

Chevy Chase Washington DC History

In the late 1880s, the Chevy Chase Land Company purchased the land and created Connecticut Avenue, one of the city’s first major thoroughfares. City planners also strove to implement an efficient neighborhood streetcar. Chevy Chase eventually opened in 1907 with 307 acres and became one of D.C.’s first streetcar suburbs after World War I. This technological advancement gave local workers the ability to live further away from their place of work.

Although Chevy Chase is technically located within city limits, the neighborhood feels more like a suburb than an urban jungle. In other words, it’s safe, clean, and covered in green. Most of its residences are filled with nuclear families and retirees with enough time to maintain their verdant yards. While there are a few condos scattered throughout the neighborhood, the majority of the residences are single-family homes. Some even date back to the neighborhood’s origin.

Crime, Safety, and Liveability

In terms of crime and safety, both violent and property crimes are well below the national average. As a result, Chevy Chase safer than the Washington D.C. area and the nation as a whole. When paired with the excellent school districts, it’s no wonder that families of all shapes and sizes are looking to make the move. In fact, the Chevy Chase neighborhood is rated as the ninth-best place to raise a family in Washington D.C.

Being adjacent to Rock Creek Park (the largest park inside city limits in the USA) and near the Capital-Cresent Trail makes Chevy Chase an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts. Nature lovers can also enjoy the Audubon Society’s 40-acre Woodland Sanctuary. The sanctuary has bird walks and wildflowers for all to enjoy.

Candy Cane City (named for red striped playground equipment) is a city park next to Rock Creek Park. Enjoy 16 acres of recreation and play football, tennis, soccer, softball, and enjoy picnic areas. Other parks and recreational opportunities dot the city.

Shopping and Entertainment

Residents of Chevy Chase can access the best D.C. has to offer as well as several locally owned businesses. This neighborhood boasts a short commute to the heart of D.C. and a thriving local economy. Just south of Chevy Chase Circle, Connecticut Avenue is home to a three-block stretch of stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and cafes. Magruder’s Supermarket, Avalon Theater, and Safeway are just a few of the highlights.

For more popular shopping destinations, visit Friendship Heights. Located to the west of Chevy Chase, this high-end neighborhood includes a number of high-end shops like Tiffany and Saks Fifth Avenue, two malls, Whole Foods, and several chain restaurants. For all other shopping excursions, residents can hop on the metro by Friendship Heights.

For dining, it’s hard to beat Chef Tony‘s in Woodmont Triangle.  Serving Italian and Meditarrain food and specializing in seafood, the salmon and spicy shrimp get rave reviews.  For sushi, head over to Raku-An Asian Dining & Sushi. This is fine Asian dining at its best with a quiet atmosphere and the freshest sushi in town.

In Friendship Heights, don’t skip the Capital Grille. This is an upscale steakhouse and the prices reflect it. But the service is wonderful and the steaks are excellent.  The decor is quiet and understated–perfect for date night.

Chevy Chase is Where it’s At

Chevy Chase offers close proximity to both locally-owned restaurants and national chains. It’s home to great education options, easy commutes, and a low crime rate. For help finding a home in this picturesque neighborhood, sign in to our website at Eng Garcia and create your own custom search.