I’ve always viewed DC on a Boston/DC/NYC continuum.

NYC is very exciting but less livable - good luck finding in unit W/D or AC for a reasonable rent!

Boston is less exciting but a solid NE city with lots of career opportunities in my field (technology)

DC has a bit of Boston and NYC - not nearly as vibrant as NYV but far more so than almost anywhere in the US. Super livable (trees? Grocery stores nearby? Quiet spaces?) DC is a major city yet also it’s not so in your face you can’t meet and know your neighbors.