Best place to live if working in Columbia, MD and want easy access to DC?

Question

I'm going to be taking a job in Columbia, MD and will be commuting by car, but as most of my friends are in downtown DC I'd like to be able to see them regularly for after work drinks, etc. I'd be looking for a house share, and would prefer to pay under $1,000 per month. Does anyone know the best place to live that is an easy commute and an easy trip into DC both weekday evenings and weekends? I'm thinking Silver Spring, but not sure if it's too far to be easy to get to DC...Thanks!

Answer 1

College Park / Greenbelt, MD - access to Metro station for going into DC and reverse commute to Columbia.

White Oak is expensive.

Answer 2

White Oak, a MD suburban area is a good choice. There are homes, condos and apts. at a good price there.