Mary Grieco
DC on a Dime: How to Successfully Budget in One of the Nation’s Most Expensive Cities
Mary Grieco
Summer 2015
I like to think that I’m responsible with money. I also like to think that I’m well acquainted with reality. Well, as a 22 year-old college student interning in the great city of Washington, DC this summer, I can attest to the fact that DC is most definitely challenging in the money department. However, DC is incomparable to the other Holy Trinity of Expensive Cities to Live In: New York, Los Angeles, and Boston. Perhaps this is because Washington citizens realize that DC Summers are synonymous with Student Interns, and the nineteen colleges in the area alone accentuate the fact that some budget-friendly amenities are a necessity. The initial introduction to the DC lifestyle was somewhat of a rude awakening, with the Metro raising fees during rush hour and my gym membership costing more per month than Wifi fees in Boston; regardless, I’m proud to admit that I finally think I’ve figured out this eclectic city that I’ve called home since late May. Have no fear Mr. Responsible and Ms. Frugal: you may still decide you want to live in Washington, DC after all.
Take Advantage of What DC Has to Offer, Literally.
Sure, DC is sprawling with charming shops in DuPont Circle and quaint cafés in Adams Morgan, but if your days tend to center around the homemade Ramen and bringing your own bag to CVS, then there are many cost-friendly sights to see and explore in DC, some even no-cost-friendly.
The Monuments
Perhaps the most iconic landmarks in the United States, the monuments in DC provide an educational and money-saving spectacle. The Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, even the World War II and Vietnam Memorials are open to the public without a penny to spare. Of course, the National Mall tends to be strewn with tourists, families, and that 8th grade field trip from a school in Florida, so aim for times and days of the week when the area is less likely to be busy: Sunday mornings for example, or if the weather may not be particularly in your favor. If you’re the real adventurer, grab a friend and flashlight and head to the monuments after sunset! I think a little moonlight tends to work wonders on Abe.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial with Washington Monument in the background, National Mall, Washington, DC http://washington.org/article/100-free-things-history-and-heritage
The Museums
Yes: the majority of museums in DC are free, meaning you can roam and learn and snap away on your cell phone as much as you please. This fact alone may be my personal favorite aspect of Washington, DC life. Visit the Phillips Collection in DuPont Circle any Tuesday-Friday if you have an eye for modern art, or (my favorite) the National Portrait Gallery where the iconic paintings of our Presidents are on display in a stunning setting.
Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, Washington, DC http://washington.org/article/100-free-things-history-and-heritage
Theatre and the Arts
To my disbelief as well, there are many opportunities in DC to go see a show and/or performance for no cost! Every Saturday morning, the National Theatre puts on a free performance series that changes weekly, and the National Gallery of Art offers LIVE MUSIC Sunday evenings at 6:30 PM! I named just a few examples, but DC is a wonderful place to experience music and certain performances for little to no cost.
Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Harman Center for the Arts, Penn Quarter, Washington, DC http://washington.org/article/100-free-things-theater-and-performing-arts
Happy Hour
Now I’m from the South, where Happy Hour is as prevalent as ever. However, I attend school in Boston, where Happy Hour is nonexistent. Working in DC this summer allowed me to stumble upon Happy Hours left and right, and I couldn’t be happier! Ranging anywhere from 3-6 PM (or at Bar Civita where I work, from 4:30-7 PM), go enjoy a cheap draft beer and a few, selected menu items for a steal at any locations offering a Happy Hour! These are great for grabbing an after-work drink with friends or for networking events with potential connections.
Have a drink outside or at the bar during Happy Hour at Bar Civita! Woodley Park, Washington, DC http://www.barcivita.com/uploads/4/4/6/0/44609939/3223636.jpg?754
The Art of Market-ing
Markets are a steal for many reasons: 1, walk around and experience the work and food provided by local artisans and aspiring chefs. 2, more likely than not you’ll have the opportunity to invest in quality foods and ingredients without having to drop $100 at your local Whole Foods. Eastern Market on Capitol Hill offers fresh produces and handmade arts, while the Farmers Market on Sundays in Dupont Circle allows you to invest in eclectic ingredients, fruits and veggies, and spices.
Eastern Market, Capitol Hill, Washington, DC http://washington.org/DC-guide-to/eastern-market
Living in DC and Nervous about Costs?
Do what I did: get a job! Many students my age are encountering the advantage of gaining experience while meeting the disadvantage of receiving no pay. So, if you have the time and means to do so, get a job! From waiting tables, tending bar, bagging groceries to working in retail, DC offers many opportunities for summer residents looking to make some extra money on the side. To counter the very persistent belief, prior experience is not required! Find a location that entices you, and inquire inside about an application.
Mary is a rising senior studying international relations and aspiring to work for the State Department
