Out of 286 ZIP codes with data in District of Columbia, these are the highest-ranked areas for purchase risk. See also: National Worst ZIP Codes for Homebuyers — Hidden Risk Factors | All District of Columbia Rankings
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| ZIP codes ranked | 286 |
| Highest value | 62/100 |
| Median value | 53/100 |
| State | District of Columbia |
Top 100 Worst ZIP Codes
| Rank | ZIP Code | City | State | Purchase Risk | Safety Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 20007 | Washington | DC | 62/100 | 62/100 |
| 2 | 20006 | Washington | DC | 59/100 | 72/100 |
| 3 | 20019 | Washington | DC | 54/100 | 62/100 |
| 4 | 20057 | Washington | DC | 53/100 | 69/100 |
| 5 | 20064 | Washington | DC | 53/100 | 69/100 |
Methodology
The Home Purchase Risk Score combines area indicators that may lead to added costs for homebuyers: water system violation records, lead service line indicators, county radon potential, flood zones and housing age. An indicator does not mean a home needs filtration, mitigation, insurance or upgrades; a home test or inspection decides that. These are factors that standard home inspections may not fully capture.
Data sources: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS), FEMA National Flood Insurance Program, EPA radon zone maps, EIA electricity rates, and Consumer Confidence Reports. Last updated: 2026-04-13.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Home Purchase Risk Score?
This score (0-100) estimates the hidden environmental costs a homebuyer may face: water filtration needs, lead pipe replacement, radon mitigation, flood insurance, and infrastructure upgrades. Higher scores mean more potential unexpected expenses after purchase.
What should homebuyers do in high-risk ZIP codes?
Request a water quality test, check for lead service lines with the utility, test for radon before closing, verify FEMA flood zone designation, and factor in potential remediation costs ($5,000-$30,000+) to your budget.
Explore More Rankings
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