Closing Costs for District of Columbia (2026)
District of Columbia (DC) Key Facts
Average Closing Cost Rate
5.5%
Estimated Closing Costs ( Median Home)
$35,200
Attorney Required at Closing
Yes
Median Home Price
$640,000
Transfer Tax
Varies by county
How This Calculator Works in District of Columbia
This closing costs calculator estimates the total amount you will need at closing when buying a home in District of Columbia. It uses the state's average closing cost rate of 5.5% as a baseline and lets you adjust for your specific purchase price and situation. Understanding these costs in advance helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises at the closing table.
District of Columbia Overview
Closing costs in District of Columbia average about 5.5% of the home's purchase price—roughly $35,200 on the median home of $640,000. District of Columbia requires an attorney at closing, adding legal oversight and cost to the process. Transfer taxes in District of Columbia are: 1.1% on transactions up to $400K, 1.45% above.
How District of Columbia Compares
District of Columbia's average closing cost rate of 5.5% is higher than most states. Neighboring Maryland averages 3.5%, while Virginia averages 2.8%. States with attorney requirements and higher transfer taxes tend to have elevated closing costs overall.
| State | Top Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 3.5% | Average closing costs are 3.5% of the home price, approximately $14,000 on the median home. Attorney required at closing. |
| Virginia | 2.8% | Average closing costs are 2.8% of the home price, approximately $10,640 on the median home. Attorney required at closing. |
| Pennsylvania | 3.5% | Average closing costs are 3.5% of the home price, approximately $9,625 on the median home. Attorney required at closing. |
Closing costs in District of Columbia average 5.5% of the home price, or about $35,200 on the median-priced home of $640,000. The national average for closing costs is typically 2-5% of the purchase price. District of Columbia is on the higher end nationally.
Tips for District of Columbia Residents
- 1Budget approximately 5.5% of the purchase price for closing costs in District of Columbia, which comes to about $35,200 on the median home of $640,000. This is in addition to your down payment and moving expenses.
- 2District of Columbia requires an attorney at closing, adding legal oversight and cost to the process. Attorney fees typically run $500-$2,000 in District of Columbia depending on the complexity of the deal.
- 3Transfer taxes in District of Columbia: 1.1% on transactions up to $400K, 1.45% above. Make sure you know who is customarily responsible (buyer or seller) in your county, as local practice varies.
- 4Shop at least three lenders for your Loan Estimate in District of Columbia. Origination fees, discount points, and third-party charges can differ by $1,000 or more between lenders on the same loan amount.
- 5Ask about first-time homebuyer programs in District of Columbia that may offer closing cost assistance, grants, or below-market interest rates. Many state and county housing finance agencies provide such programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
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