Why I Left DC (And Why I Don't Regret It)

January 2025 - Issue 1: "Why I Left DC (And Why I Don't Regret It)"

Welcome! 👋

I never thought I'd be writing a newsletter about moving to Baltimore. Six years ago, I was the skeptical DC resident who moved to Baltimore reluctantly. Now? I can't stop talking about how this city changed my life - and could change yours too.

My Unexpected Journey to Baltimore 💕

Picture this: It's 2017, and I'm living my ideal DC life. Howard graduate, government career, weekend brunches, hair styling business on the side - the complete DC experience. Then my boyfriend (now husband) suggested something that seemed unthinkable: "Let's buy a house in Baltimore."

I looked at him like he had three heads.

But here was the reality check that changed everything: In DC, we were looking at $500,000 homes that needed significant work. Meanwhile in Baltimore? We found a completely renovated house for $135,000. That's not a typo. My share of the mortgage was $400 a month - less than many people pay for parking in DC.

The Financial Reality 💰

Let me break down what this means for your finances:

DC Reality:

• Typical 1,200 sq ft home: $500,000+

• 20% down payment: $100,000

• Monthly mortgage: ~$3,200

• Required income: ~$150,000

Baltimore Reality (My First Home circa 2017):

• 1,500 sq ft renovated home: $135,000

• Down payment: $3,000 (first-time buyer programs!)

• Monthly mortgage: $1,100 (total)

• My share: $400

• Required income: ~$45,000

This isn't just savings - it's the difference between renting forever and building generational wealth.

"But... it's Baltimore" 😬

I hear you. That was literally me. Here's what I actually worried about:

• Crime (especially as someone planning to have kids)

• Losing my DC friends

• Having nothing to do

• Schools

• The whole "Wire" image

Baltimore has its challenges, just like any city. But here's what I discovered instead:

• 250+ neighborhoods (more than DC's 131!)

• Parks everywhere (Druid Hill Park is a game-changer)

• The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO) doing Kendrick Lamar covers

• More affordable childcare than DC

• A housing market where regular people can still build wealth

This Month's Hidden Gem: BSO's Black History Month Preview 🎵

Speaking of the BSO - you need to know about their Black History Month performances. I once watched them perform a full orchestra cover of Black Panther WITH the original Congo drummer! They've done Biggie, 2Pac, and this year's lineup is incredible. (Full schedule coming in next issue!)

Featured Neighborhood: Mount Vernon 🏛️

Think Dupont Circle vibes but actually affordable. Beautiful architecture, the original Washington Monument (yes, we had it first), charming cafes, and homes that don't require a small fortune. Current listings range from $160k-$500k for spaces that would easily command $800k+ in DC.

Also, one of the coolest speak-easies named Bloom is located in Mount Vernon. If you’re into cocktails/mocktails, cool music and an intimate vibe, check them out.

Money Saved Spotlight 💫

Meet Sarah (name changed), who relocated from DC last month:

• Previous DC rent: $2,400/month for 700 sq ft

• Current Baltimore mortgage: $1,600/month for 1,800 sq ft

• Monthly savings: $800

• Annual savings: $9,600

• Plus: Building equity instead of paying rent

Upcoming Baltimore Events 📅

• January 24 - February 2: Winter Restaurant Week 

• January 24 - February 2: Downtown Discovery Days - Throughout Downtown Discovery Days, several of the region’s most popular attractions offer deals and discounts on admission.

• February 21 - 23: BSO's Simply the Best: Music of Tina Turner - celebrate Tina Turner’s iconic musical legacy with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra

Next Steps 👣

Interested but uncertain? Here's where to start:

1. Follow @HelloCharmCity on Instagram for Baltimore insights

2. Reply with your questions about Baltimore - I'll address them in upcoming issues

Final Thought 💭

The best life changes often begin with steps that feel uncertain. Six years ago, I viewed Baltimore as a temporary stop. Today, I'm raising my family here, building a business, and discovering new reasons to love this city every day.

Watch for my next issue in two weeks!

Warmly,

Gifty, Your Baltimore Bestie 🙂 

P.S. Know someone in DC struggling with housing costs? Share this newsletter - let's help more people discover Baltimore's potential. 🏠✨

Hello Charm City is a bi-weekly newsletter helping DMV residents discover affordable housing and a better life in Baltimore - from someone who made the journey and saved money doing it.