Moved from Midwest to NJ, to DC (lived in DC, Md, and Va) and back to NJ. Here goes

Traffic sucks everywhere. DC area has the worst drivers, and traffic in DC is bad even in non rush hour. Not so much in NJ Cost of living is high in both areas Food is MUCH better in NJ. More genuine, less homogenized, DC has ethnic cruise, but more showcase and less real ethic (think Ironbound, Portuguese or Edison, Indian) DC has good museums and nightlife, but NJ has access to NYC and Philly.
NJ has access to mountains, shore, metropolitan areas…DC has access to the Chesapeake The real win for NJ is small towns, built on the commuter rail lines. Each has its own vibe, pros and cons, but that’s what makes NJ. Most walkable with bars, restaurants, theaters…etc.

DC area is great and I enjoyed it….but after time the focus on Government and politics make it feel a bit like a political version of Disney World….a bit plastic and artificial.

Move to NJ