Don't commute. I live in Northern VA, and although it's expensive, its worth living within driving distance to your base. If you're single, I'm sure you could find something affordable SOMEWHERE. If you have a family and require a house, well, that might get pricy. I used to live in Annapolis, MD and even that drive was only about 50 minutes and doable. If you decide to live near DC, there is plenty to do when you're not working. DCA crew rooms leave something to be desired. I tend to check in for my trips, and then relax outside the crew rooms just to avoid the dungeons. All in all, so far so good for me at DCA. I'm sure that is based solely on the fact that I don't have to commute in. Welcome aboard.