For great research, start in a great city.

The greater Washington area is one of the most valuable markets in the country when it comes to research. Comprised of Washington, DC and its Maryland and Virginia suburbs, it’s the fourth largest U.S. metro area, with nearly 5 million regional residents. It’s a thriving area, leading the nation in job growth for the past 20 years. It’s proud to own one of the most efficient mass transit systems in the nation and is served by three major airports, making it one of the most accessible destinations you’ll find. But there’s so much more to Washington that you and your clients should be aware of:

		The greater Washington area is among the nation’s most diverse. It is home to two of the wealthiest counties in the US (Montgomery County, MD and Fairfax County, VA), has a large middle class population and is diverse in both race and age.
		Fifty percent of the market is Caucasian, 25% African American, Hispanics and Latinos comprise 10% of the market and Asians 8%. All others are 7%.
		With over 18% of the adults boasting advanced degrees, it’s the highest educated region in the nation. 42% of the population has a bachelor’s degree or higher. That’s six percentage points higher than the US average.
		More than 287,000 scientists, engineers and computer professionals live here. We also have one of the highest percentages of physicians and lawyers per capita.
		The largest number of Inc. 500 companies are here. We’ve held that title for six consecutive years. And the second highest number of Deloitte & Touche Technology Fast 500 companies were here in 2002.
		The largest technology consumer in the world is based here — the Federal Government.
		This area is home to the world’s third largest concentration of bioscience companies and is a leader in human genome research.
		There are more than 40 colleges and universities in this region.
		This area was selected as best for entrepreneurship by Entrepreneur magazine. It also boasts the third highest concentration of Hispanic-owned businesses in the country.
		By the time you’ve gotten down this far on the list, you may have realized that it’s a myth that this area is entirely focused on government, highly transient and dominated by bureaucrats.
		With 234,000 acres of parkland, more free attractions than any other US metro area and, of course, the monuments, each time you bring your business to the DC area, you’ll find something new and different to explore.