So many people have different experiences of DC (neighborhood by neighborhood), ITB, and the exurbs whether across the Potomac or to the west or east. Throw in education, employment, background, and myriad other factors.

If you can afford to live in a nicer part DC proper, then you'll probably have an awesome experience. If you can't but you stretch, or you live far out, it may be a struggle and the pros/cons don't balance out.

Also, the DMV and (DC plus ITB especially) has the highest educational attainment in arguably the world. Most of those people are smart enough (and I guess I'm excluding myself here) to waste time on reddit or other social media to complain. They also probably make a lot of money and therefore live closer in and can afford the fun stuff.