My decision to live outside of DC comes down to one thing, and one thing only. Sub-standard public schools. I've been raising two kids by myself on a single income for the past 2 or so years. So shelling out the cash for private schools is out of the question. And rolling the dice on getting into one of the better charter schools is also out of the question.
That said, we've been really happy in Arlington, and now Falls Church in a neighborhood that is probably 50/50 latino/white. I'm getting married in October, so for the first time in a long time I'm now enjoying a two income home...but we are staying put.
For me, and for everyone else, either location has it's ups and downs. But for ME, all things considered, the burbs are the better fit.
To each their own. If I had no kids, I'd most certainly not live where I am, but if that were the case I probably would have left the area altogether quite some time ago.
PS - If I were a city dweller I'd still no doubt have a car. I lived without one until I was almost 30 years old, so clearly I know it can be done. But I like road trips and self-reliance, so I need that flexibility in my life.
