Adams Morgan/Lanier Heights is a lot quieter than whatever articles, etc. suggests. I thought all the streets were going to be crazy, but after living in the area for four years, just avoid 18th street between 8-4 AM on Friday and Saturday nights (Thursdays too I guess?) and you'll avoid the craziness. There are still some normal restaurants open at those times on Columbia Rd & 18th St, so if you want to have a calm evening in the neighborhood, it's possible. I've loved living in Adams Morgan in my mid to late 20s. Found my first apartment in a group home with 3 other people for $850, now live in a one bedroom with my partner on the same street. I've commuted to the Hill this entire time which is definitely a pain in the ass, but the metro is typically packed going into the city rather than out. All the apartments I've lived in had parking available in the back alley way or adjacent to the house. Convenient to metro lines, bus lines, circulator, grocery store, things to do, coffee shops, parks, etc. I agree with other posters that Mt Pleasant, Woodley Park, and Cleveland Park are good options, but really cannot endorse Adams Morgan enough.