Where Barack Obama Lived Before Moving to the White House

For members of Congress who are not wealthy, and there are fewer and fewer of those these days, finding an affordable place to stay in Washington is a challenge. Being a member of Congress pays well, $174,000 a year. But you must have two homes: One in DC for work and one back in your district where the law requires you to maintain a residence. It gets to be expensive.

So, this is the story of how one senator went from living in a very modest apartment and then moved to public housing.

In 2005 the new junior senator from Illinois rented a small, one-bedroom apartment in the above building near Stanton Park on Capitol Hill. It was close to his office so he could walk to work and the monthly rent was $1,200. It had an old bathroom, a tiny kitchen with a half stove, and by his own admission “a vintage, college-dorm, pizza, empty bottle feel to it.” When his wife came to town, she refused to sleep here.

In an attempt to find a nicer place to live that would cost less, the senator decides to run for president. When he becomes a real contender in the race, the Secret Service asked that he leave his apartment and move to a hotel where he would be safer. He acquiesces. Barack Obama wins the election and moves to the White House. Housing problem solved.

And the apartment? Well, its lease was passed down to young campaign workers and White House staffers. And you can see it for yourself on my Hidden on the Hill tour

David Shaw

When not showing visitors the District (that’s what residents call Washington) I enjoy reading, grilling, and traveling. I’ve been to nineteen countries and every state except Idaho and Nebraska. I am a Certified Master Guide of the Guild of Professional...

David Shaw Full Bio
Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
1 to 6

Arlington National Cemetery: Secrets and Stories

Every working day more than twenty Americans who sacrificed for their country are buried at Arlington National Cemetery.  On this tour we learn the secrets of Arlington's past and present and the fascinating stories of those buried here. And while Arlington's dead rest in peace, we'll see that they are still always working.  

Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
1 to 6

Hidden on Capitol Hill

Few people think beyond the Capitol when they think of the Hill. This tour takes you to the heart of a neighborhood with a fascinating history that still speaks to us today. Learn about these famous locations from a former Capitol Hill resident.

Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
1 to 6

Embassy Row: Divinity & Diplomats

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Duration
8 hours
Group Size
1 to 6

Customized Private Tours

There are no limits here! This tour is whatever you want it to be. See the part of Washington, DC you’ve always wanted to with an expert guide who has been in the city for more than thirty years. Our Washington Private Tours are perfect for those looking to learn more about DC in a fun and safe manner. See what you like for however long you like, accompanied by an expert guide!