Shaw

Overview

Shaw neighborhood was an African-American, Harlem-like area of DC in the early 20th century. It had many musical and cultural influences like the native Duke Ellington. Following the DC race riots of 1968, the neighborhood went into decline as affluent residents fled and moved to the suburbs. Recent revitalization projects, new residential construction, and businesses expanding from Dupont Circle and other nearby neighborhoods have transformed Shaw into a transitional neighborhood.

Shaw's borders are often disputed. It once included Logan Circle, which has become its own neighborhood as recent business and housing developments have pushed east from Dupont Circle. Many also consider the smaller neighborhoods of LeDroit Park and Bloomingdale as part of Shaw. Its borders are roughly Florida Ave. to the North, Massachusetts Ave. and New York Ave. to the South, 11th St. NW to the West, and North Capitol St. to the East.

Most of the U St. Corridor (U St. NW between Florida Ave and 9th St. NW ) is in Shaw and consists of many restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. This corridor has led much of the revitalization of the area and is a popular destination for many DC residents and students alike.

LeDroit Park, directly south of Howard University, is often considered a smaller neighborhood within Shaw. It once was a gated-community built of Victorian style row houses for elite residences. More recently, it has become popular for students attending Howard University.

Bloomingdale to the southeast of Howard University is a predominantly residential area with Victorian Style row houses. It is a popular housing area for students attending Howard University to the West as well as students attending nearby Catholic University and Trinity University to the East.

Housing

Including the smaller neighborhoods of LeDroit Park and Bloomingdale, Shaw neighborhood is a popular residential area for students attending Howard University and nearby Catholic University and Trinity University. Many of the Victorian style row houses have been converted into smaller studio and one-bedroom units. Additionally, new construction in the area has led to new apartment complexes and condominiums. Renters can expect a wide range of prices. Studios in older row houses can start at $800/month while a one bedroom in a new apartment building can start at $1500/month.

Below are several featured buildings in this neighborhood for consideration. Be sure to check with each apartments' property management company for more information, availability, and current prices. And don’t be afraid to contact them! Most renters need to give 30-60 days moving notice. If you know you’re moving in the next few months, have them keep track of apartments coming available for you.

Roommates In Shaw

Know that you want to live in Shaw then check out some of the rental and roommate postings below. Want to create a posting? Click here!