Shipley Terrace, Washington, DC

Welcome to Shipley Terrace, DC: A Community Reimagined and Connected

Perched in Southeast Washington, D.C., bordering Prince George's County, Maryland, Shipley Terrace is a large residential neighborhood undergoing a significant transformation. Once primarily known for its public housing complexes, this resilient community is now blossoming into a diverse area featuring a mix of modern townhomes, spacious single-family houses, and revitalized apartment communities. If you're seeking an affordable D.C. address with strong community ties, abundant green spaces, and excellent connectivity, Shipley Terrace is an exceptionally appealing place to call home.

Neighborhood overview:
https://www.homes.com/local-guide/washington-dc/shipley-terrace-neighborhood/

A Past of Evolution, A Future of Revitalization

Shipley Terrace's history is deeply intertwined with the evolution of housing in Southeast D.C. The neighborhood was named after a former public housing complex, which characterized much of the area's residential landscape. Over time, Shipley Terrace has embraced revitalization, becoming a "model neighborhood" for programs like the HOPE VI Revitalization Grant Program, which focused on transforming distressed public housing into mixed-income communities.

HOPE VI program overview:
https://www.huduser.gov/portal/hopevi.html

Neighborhood redevelopment initiatives in D.C.:
https://dhcd.dc.gov/page/neighborhood-revitalization

Today, the neighborhood reflects a blend of its past and future, with long-time residents living alongside newcomers attracted by modern housing, improved amenities, and renewed investment.

Diverse Homes and Expansive Green Spaces

The architectural character of Shipley Terrace is increasingly diverse. While some legacy housing remains, the neighborhood now offers:

• Townhome communities with modern layouts and updated finishes

• Large single-family homes, many in Colonial styles with garages

• Revitalized garden-unit and walk-up apartments with renovated interiors

Housing options and current listings:
https://www.zillow.com/shipley-terrace-washington-dc/
https://www.redfin.com/neighborhood/107556/DC/Washington-DC/Douglass-Shipley-Terrace

Shipley Terrace truly stands out for its exceptional access to green spaces:

Oxon Run Park

The largest park within Washington, D.C., spanning over 125 acres along the D.C.–Maryland border. It features walking and biking trails, basketball courts, outdoor fitness equipment, and community-led activities.

https://www.nps.gov/places/oxon-run-park.htm
https://dpr.dc.gov/page/oxon-run-park

THEARC Farm

An urban agriculture space providing fresh produce, youth programs, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) opportunities.

https://www.thearcdc.org/farm

Villages of Parkland Splash Park

A seasonal splash park popular with families during the summer months.

https://dpr.dc.gov/page/parkland-recreation-center

Real Estate in Shipley Terrace: Value in a Changing Market

Shipley Terrace offers a compelling real estate market for buyers seeking affordability and long-term upside.

• Mixed Inventory: Apartments, townhomes, and detached single-family homes

• Accessible Prices: Median sale price around $370,000 (May 2025) for the Douglass/Shipley Terrace area

• Wide Range: From low $200,000s to $750,000 for larger renovated homes

Market trends and pricing data:
https://www.redfin.com/neighborhood/107556/DC/Washington-DC/Douglass-Shipley-Terrace
https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/Shipley-Terrace_Washington_DC

• Somewhat Competitive Market: Average days on market around 72 days, with renovated or well-located homes selling faster.

Amenities and Connectivity: Community Hubs and City Links

Shipley Terrace supports a well-connected, community-oriented lifestyle with strong cultural and transportation infrastructure.

THEARC (Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus)

A cornerstone of the neighborhood offering arts, education, health services, and recreation. Home to organizations like the School of the Washington Ballet and Levine School of Music.

https://www.thearcdc.org/
https://www.washingtonballet.org/education/
https://www.levinemusic.org/

Local Conveniences

• Giant Food grocery store

• IHOP restaurant

• Neighborhood shops and services

Shopping center info:
https://stores.giantfood.com/dc/washington/1535-alabama-avenue-se

Recreation & Wellness

• Fort Stanton Recreation Center
  https://dpr.dc.gov/page/fort-stanton-recreation-center

• Anacostia Recreation Center
  https://dpr.dc.gov/page/anacostia-recreation-center

• Southeast Tennis & Learning Center
  https://www.tennisandlearning.org/

Education

Served by District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS):
https://dcps.dc.gov/

Transportation & Accessibility

Shipley Terrace boasts Excellent Transit access:

• Congress Heights Metro Station (Green/Yellow Lines)

• Southern Avenue Metro Station (Green Line)

Metro system info:
https://www.wmata.com/

Bus routes and schedules:
https://www.wmata.com/schedules/bus.cfm

Walkability and transit scores:
https://www.walkscore.com/DC/Washington/Shipley_Terrace

Community Overview

HOA: Yes/No
(Varies by property type. Newer townhome and apartment communities such as Asheford Court, Shipley Park, Garden Village, and Manor Village operate with HOAs or condo fees.)

55+ Community: No
(Shipley Terrace is multi-generational, though select apartment communities may offer senior-focused housing.)