We live on Connecticut Ave in DC itself between the Univeristy of DC and Chevy Chase Circle. We got in a few years ago when th rent had very briefly slumped and now we are locked in with rent control, otherwise I wouldn't have the cash to even walk down the street here. Finding a affordible place to live where I don't have to worry about the wife walking down the street has been one of the biggest blessings we've shared together. We both work in Bethesda, MD so it's either 3 metro stops or 15-30 minutes driving, depending on traffic. Just around the coner by DC commuting standards.
Heck yes it is. Over the last 18 years, I've spent about 2-2.5months a year visiting DC for work related activities. I usually stay up around Thomas Circle for the exact reasons you relate. Kinda rough around 2nd St SW.