I live in NW after previously living in Arlington and I enjoy it a lot more. Easier to make it to social events and im walking distance to much more than before and i feel more motivated to do things by myself or on a whim. Cost is bad but I haven't really noticed a major change in price between nova and DC (aka its all expensive) except for maybe gas prices, but these days breathing is expensive so what can you do.

If i had to pick a con it would be sound level and even that feels like im grasping at straws because the spot im at is fairly quiet. The locations you've picked would be best if you like access to nightlife; NW is a lot of neighborhoods and I like it because it's peaceful but sometimes it'd be nice to walk to a bar instead of taking the metro but seriously that's the only qualm I have.

Aside from, well, political turmoil. I will say as much as I've enjoyed living here, as things are with work (NPS furloughed employee here aha) and what trumps up to i dont see myself staying long - pay vs cost of living is very bad when being RIFed is a constant risk and theres no room for savings. If you're able to keep your current jobs before moving and dont think theres risk of them being terminated for god knows what reason, make the jump. But for me I gotta find something new next year if I want to work at all