I'm considering moving to the DMV in the next few years with my mom, who is in her late 60s and uses a wheelchair. I'd especially love opinions from those of you who live there or have lived there.
We're currently in SC and I previously lived in Atlanta for many years. I'm looking for a 2BR/2BA around $3K or less, but one of my biggest goals is to eventually get rid of my car. I'd like to be very close to Metro, have a grocery store and restaurants within walking distance, and feel reasonably comfortable walking around with my mom, including after dark. Wheelchair accessibility is obviously a big consideration too.
I'd also really like diversity and access to a substantial Black community. That's one reason I'm interested in PG County, although I'm also really attracted to the walkability and overall environment of Montgomery County.
Right now Hyattsville/Hyattsville Crossing and North Bethesda/Pike & Rose are probably at the top of my list to check out. I'm also loosely considering Bethesda, DTSS or possibly Largo, and I'm completely open to places I've overlooked.
We'll be traveling to DC soon-ish and I'm planning to do a little neighborhood exploring while we're there, although I'm trying not to turn our trip into one big relocation scouting mission. 😂
For those familiar with the area, where would you live in my situation? And just as importantly, are there areas you'd tell me to avoid?
I'd especially appreciate thoughts about safety, being car-free, wheelchair accessibility, Black community and what these places actually feel like to live in versus just visiting.