Obamas New DC Home Purchase and Price
The Obamas purchased a home in the Kalorama neighborhood of Washington, D.C., in 2017 after leaving the White House. The property is a nine-bedroom, eight-bathroom residence with approximately 8,100 square feet of living space, situated on a corner lot. The purchase price was reported at $8.1 million, according to property records and financial disclosures. The transaction was handled through a limited liability company, a common practice for high-profile buyers seeking privacy. The sale was documented in public records filed with the District of Columbia land records office. For more on the purchase structure and price, see the Forbes report on the Obamas DC home purchase.
The home is located on a tree-lined street in Kalorama, a historic residential area known for its diplomatic missions and embassies. The neighborhood sits northwest of downtown Washington, D.C., within walking distance of embassies, restaurants, and parks. The property sits on a lot of roughly 0.2 acres, with a gated entrance and enhanced security features typical of high-profile residences. The house was renovated before the Obamas moved in, with updates to the kitchen, bathrooms, and landscaping. The purchase made the Obamas one of the most prominent homeowners in the Kalorama area, alongside other notable political and diplomatic residents.
Property Features and Layout
The main living areas include a large living room, formal dining room, and a family room with a fireplace. The kitchen features high-end appliances, a large island, and a pantry designed for entertaining. The first floor also houses a library, a powder room, and a mudroom with direct garage access. The upper floors contain the primary suite, five additional bedrooms, and multiple bathrooms, several of which include spa-like features. The property also includes a finished basement with a media room, a wine cellar, and additional living space. The home was listed on the market before the Obamas purchased it, and the interior photos highlighted updated hardwood floors, crown molding, and modern fixtures.
The outdoor spaces include a private backyard, a terrace, and a garden area bordered by mature trees. The property also has a two-car garage and additional parking for guests. Security features include a gated driveway, a security system, and reinforced windows, reflecting the needs of a high-profile household. The home is situated near several embassies, including the Embassy of France and the Embassy of the United Kingdom, which adds to the neighborhood's prestige. The layout and features were designed to accommodate both family living and formal entertaining, with separate wings for private and public spaces.
Neighborhood and Security Context
Kalorama is one of Washington, D.C.'s most prestigious residential neighborhoods, located in Ward 1. The area is known for its historic rowhouses, diplomatic presence, and proximity to major landmarks such as the Kennedy Center and Georgetown. The neighborhood is served by several international schools, boutique shops, and well-known restaurants along Connecticut Avenue and Columbia Road. The Obamas' home is within a short drive of the White House and the State Department, making it convenient for their post-presidential activities and foundation work. The area is patrolled by the Metropolitan Police Department and benefits from the additional security presence typical of diplomatic zones.
Security for the Obamas' DC home involves a combination of private measures and coordination with the United States Secret Service. The Secret Service maintains a presence in the neighborhood, particularly during public appearances and visits. The home's location on a quiet street with limited through traffic supports both privacy and security operations. The Obamas also use the property as a base for their work with the Obama Foundation, which focuses on leadership development and civic engagement. The foundation's