Living in DC

Source details

Headquarters located in the heart of the commercial district of Washington, D.C.
Over 90 percent of IMF staff work at Headquarters and live in the District of Columbia or in the nearby suburbs of Maryland and Virginia.
The D.C. metropolitan area has one of the most highly developed public transportation networks in the U.S.
IMF Headquarters are located within a 10-minute walk of three subway stations.
Washington is home to numerous international organizations, embassies, academic institutions, think-tanks, and national and international non-profit organizations.
The D.C. metropolitan area is a hub for various types of law, high-tech, bio-tech, and defense industries.
New York City is less than 3-hours away by train.
Many natural and recreational destinations (state and national parks, mountains, rivers, seashore) are within a 3-hour drive; Rock Creek Park is located in the center of the city.

Childcare and Preschool Consultant
Education Consultant
Legal Services Consultant
Immigration and Visa Services Consultant
Financial Planning Consultant
Family Consultation Service
Spouse/Partner Career Assistance:
- The IMF Spouse & Domestic Partners Career Service assists spouses and work-authorization eligible domestic partners of IMF staff members to understand the local job market, identify opportunities, and successfully find employment.
IMF Family Association (IMFFA):
- Provides a welcoming, supportive community for IMF families.
- Membership is open to all spouses and partners of IMF employees.
- Contact: imffa@imf.org

The IMF is described as a highly collaborative and social environment.
Approximately 30 different staff-run clubs and societies reflecting varied interests, including watching (and playing) sports, skiing, photography, choral, and cultural clubs.
The D.C. area is noted for international residents, museums, parks, restaurants, and nightlife.
Events open to families and friends include:
- Multi-sports day held at Bretton Woods Recreation Center
- Annual holiday party held every December
- Children’s party

The cost of living in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area is relatively high.
Employees relocating to Washington from other parts of the U.S. are pointed to a cost-of-living calculator to compare costs.
A report from the U.S. Department of Labor is recommended to help employees relocating from outside the U.S. understand typical American household spending on various expense categories.
Housing options in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area:
- Downtown apartments and condos
- Larger single-family homes in close-in neighborhoods and extensive suburbs
The housing market is described as very active for both renting and purchasing; most staff quickly find accommodations.
Guidance available for renting or buying, including preferred real estate agents and access to the IMF’s credit union.