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Living in Washington: the ultimate expat guide

Everything you need to know for a successful life in Washington.

Guide updated bySylvan Thomson, on 29 November 2025

Capital of the United States, Washington DC is a cosmopolitan city attracting large numbers of expatriates. Its cultural heritage, its picturesque neighborhoods contribute tomaking it a pleasant place to live with an important economic dynamism. In addition to the government agencies, Washington hosts great international companies offering job opportunities to skilled and ambitious expats.

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About

A New Zealander who has spent much of their life overseas, I am now based back in my home country with my American partner and child. I have lived in the UK, the Cook Islands, the USA and Australia and am especially familiar with the expat experience in the US, having spent 2016 - 2020 in America. In New Zealand I work as an employment case manager at the Ministry of Social Development and a freelance writer and editor. I enjoy outdoor adventures, nature, writing and literature, cooking, foraging, fishing, and drawing.

Join the Washington expat community
Connect with +3M members
Share your experience and get insights from fellow expats