Inevitably you'll come across a shooting near the liquor store, or encounter a belligerent person on the street. If it's something you would prefer not to deal with, I wouldn't recommend the area.

>whether the area has gotten safer

That's a very relative term. Consider that Sursum Corda was arguably the roughest project in the city during the murder capital's deepest plunge.

It’s still pretty shit. Only difference between now and 1995 is you can catch a stray bullet while in a 2300$ a month studio across the street.

As a young woman, I recommend Logan Circle or, in general, zipcode 20009 (Dupont Circle, Adam's Morgan)

I wouldn’t recommend it if you have any misgivings at all. It’s not a great neighborhood. Better to rent somewhere safer and then move over there a year later if you decide you’re ok with it.

On the other hand, people get shot all over this city lately so there’s no guarantees.

Don't do it. Seriously.

#2 M? It’ll catch a stray bullet from time to time and there’s occasional drama like any building. You’ll probably also have your car broken into at some point.

Peace of mind as a young woman means a lot. As posters have noted below, you can get shot anywhere in DC, but as another young woman, having to feel nervous every time you leave your house later at night is a tough sell.

If you have any other options, move somewhere else.

without being as dramatic as other commenters, i’d suggest elsewhere if you’re new to town. the area is currently experiencing a rough patch and even that aside, it’s sort of a trek to amenities and attractions. it’s also a major throughfare for cars, lots of traffic, people drive fast etc. there’s nicer, safer, more convenient and more walkable areas

I'd visit first if you haven't already and make that call for yourself. I (30F) lived around there for years in my 20s and still work around there and hang out around there and personally dont feel unsafe. Crossing North Cap on foot is just a thing people have to do from time to time. Just make sure you walk right, mind your business and be respectful. if you can afford it, take a ride share home if you're out late. if not, there are a ton of bus lines nearby that can take you wherever. there's a ton of new development, for better or for worse, that's not for me to say. if you're looking for a short term visit while you scope places out in those neighborhoods, there are quite a few hotels around and a trendy new selina hostel nearby as well. good luck on the apartment search!

West of Capitol? If you’re not very familiar with city living, absolutely not (and even then block dependent). East of Capitol, AKA NoMa, depends entirely on your comfort level in urban environments. It’s safe, but it may not always feel safe to some people.

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North Cap is like Dawn if the Dead with packs of addicts and people with severe mental health challenges. The open air drug markets/violence are an added bonus. Unless you’re trying to check that box, better to look at somewhere more boring.