I live outside of DC and I commute. Obviously you want to live in base, but commuting wise it isnt too bad since IAD, DCA and BWI are all connected through the Metro. You basically have three airports instead of one. Sure, it'll be nice to always get a seat or always have flights available but paying 6 bucks and hopping on a Metro Bus to Rosslyn or Greenbelt is a small price to pay to get home.