The Paul Tagliabue house stands as a prime example of luxury real estate in one of Washington D.C.’s most exclusive neighborhoods. This former NFL Commissioner’s residence reflects decades of success in professional sports management. Located in the heart of Georgetown, the property combines historic charm with modern comforts. Tagliabue purchased this stately home during his tenure leading the National Football League from 1989 to 2006. The residence features classic Federal-style architecture that defines Georgetown’s character. Privacy and elegance merge in this carefully maintained property.
The house sits on a quiet street lined with century-old trees and brick sidewalks. Neighbors include politicians, diplomats, and business leaders who value Georgetown’s unique blend of history and prestige. The Paul Tagliabue house represents more than just a place to live—it symbolizes achievement at the highest levels of American sports administration.
Who is Paul Tagliabue?
Paul Tagliabue served as the NFL Commissioner for 17 years, transforming professional football into a multi-billion dollar enterprise. He led the league through expansion, adding teams in Jacksonville and Charlotte while overseeing massive television contract negotiations. His legal background from Georgetown University Law Center proved invaluable during labor negotiations and franchise disputes. Before becoming commissioner, he worked as a lawyer representing the NFL in various legal matters.
Tagliabue’s net worth is estimated at $20 million, accumulated through his commissioner salary and subsequent business ventures. He doesn’t own a yacht or private jet, preferring a more understated lifestyle compared to team owners. His real estate holdings remain modest, focused primarily on his Georgetown residence. He drives luxury sedans but avoids flashy sports cars. His wealth comes from years of strategic leadership rather than inheritance or entrepreneurial ventures.
The former commissioner maintains a low profile in retirement, occasionally consulting on sports management issues. He spends time with family and engages in charitable work through various foundations. His home in Georgetown remains his primary residence, where he’s lived for over three decades. The property reflects his preference for tradition and stability over constant change.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Paul John Tagliabue |
| Date of Birth | November 24, 1940 |
| Age | 84 years old |
| Birthplace | Jersey City, New Jersey |
| Education | Georgetown University (B.A.), Georgetown University Law Center (J.D.) |
| Profession | Former NFL Commissioner, Attorney |
| Years as Commissioner | 1989-2006 |
| Net Worth | $20 million |
| Primary Residence | Georgetown, Washington D.C. |
| Other Properties | One vacation home in New Jersey |
| Cars | 2 luxury sedans |
| Marital Status | Married to Chandler Tagliabue |
| Children | 2 daughters |
Where Does Paul Tagliabue Live Now?
Paul Tagliabue lives in Georgetown, one of Washington D.C.’s oldest and most prestigious neighborhoods. The area dates back to 1751, predating the nation’s capital itself. Georgetown offers tree-lined streets, Federal-style row houses, and a village atmosphere within a major city. He chose this location for its proximity to his work and its quiet, refined character.
The neighborhood attracts residents who value history, walkability, and community. Georgetown University anchors the eastern end, bringing intellectual energy to the area. M Street and Wisconsin Avenue provide shopping and dining options within walking distance. The Potomac River waterfront offers recreational paths and scenic views.
Tagliabue’s decision to stay in Georgetown after retirement shows his deep connection to the community. He walks to local restaurants and shops, maintaining an active presence in neighborhood life. The area’s security and privacy appeal to high-profile residents who want to avoid constant attention. Public transportation access remains limited, which helps preserve Georgetown’s exclusive character.
Paul Tagliabue House
The Paul Tagliabue house represents classic Georgetown architecture with Federal-style details and brick construction. Built in the early 1900s, the property underwent careful renovations to preserve historical features while adding modern systems. The three-story structure features symmetrical windows, decorative cornices, and a centered entrance with period-appropriate hardware. Red brick exterior walls show expert craftsmanship typical of Georgetown’s building tradition.
Inside, the home spans approximately 4,500 square feet across multiple levels. Original hardwood floors run throughout main living areas, refinished to maintain their vintage appearance. High ceilings on the first floor create spacious entertaining areas with crown molding and detailed plasterwork. The floor plan follows traditional Georgetown layouts with formal rooms in front and family spaces toward the rear.
Natural light fills the interior through tall windows that overlook the street and private garden. The color palette emphasizes neutral tones with occasional rich accent colors in fabrics and artwork. Built-in bookcases and period mantels add character to living spaces. The residence balances formality with comfort, suitable for both official entertaining and daily family life.
1. Where Is Paul Tagliabue House?
The Paul Tagliabue house sits on a quiet residential street in Georgetown’s most desirable section. The exact address remains private to protect the family’s security and privacy. The property occupies a mid-block location, typical of Georgetown’s dense urban layout. Neighboring homes share walls or sit close together, creating the neighborhood’s characteristic streetscape.
Georgetown’s boundaries run from Rock Creek Park on the east to Georgetown University on the west. The neighborhood extends from the Potomac River north to Glover Park. Tagliabue’s home falls within the central Georgetown area, where property values reach their highest levels. The location offers easy access to downtown Washington D.C. and major thoroughfares.
Street parking presents challenges in Georgetown, but many historic homes include private parking spaces or garages. The neighborhood’s brick sidewalks and cobblestone streets add to its historic charm. Residents walk to nearby shops, restaurants, and services along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue. The area maintains strict zoning rules that preserve its architectural character and scale.
2. Features of Paul Tagliabue House
The architectural design follows Federal-style principles popular in early American residential construction. Symmetry defines the facade, with evenly spaced windows and a central doorway. The brick exterior uses Flemish bond patterns, showing attention to detail. Black shutters frame windows on upper floors, adding contrast to red brick walls.
Inside, room proportions reflect Federal period standards with generous ceiling heights and well-defined spaces. The main floor includes a formal living room, dining room, and updated kitchen. Original fireplaces remain functional in several rooms, featuring marble surrounds and carved mantels. Pocket doors separate entertaining spaces, allowing flexibility for different occasions.
The second floor contains bedrooms and bathrooms updated with modern fixtures while maintaining period character. A third-floor level provides additional bedrooms or office space with lower ceilings typical of historic homes. The basement level, common in Georgetown houses, offers storage and mechanical systems. Total living space reaches approximately 4,500 square feet across all levels.
A rear garden provides outdoor space, rare and valuable in dense Georgetown. Brick walls enclose the garden, creating privacy for dining and relaxation. Mature plantings include boxwoods, flowering trees, and perennials that thrive in the Mid-Atlantic climate. A small patio area allows for outdoor entertaining during warmer months.
4. House Amenities
The Paul Tagliabue house includes updated kitchen appliances, central heating and cooling systems, and modern electrical wiring. A home security system provides protection and monitoring. The property features a private rear garden with brick patio and mature landscaping. Original hardwood floors, working fireplaces, and built-in bookcases add character. Off-street parking accommodates vehicles in this walkable neighborhood where parking is scarce.
5. Neighborhood Area
Georgetown attracts residents who appreciate history, architecture, and urban village life. The neighborhood includes diplomats, professors, lawyers, and retired government officials. Property values remain among the highest in Washington D.C., with homes rarely staying on the market long. The community maintains strong historic preservation standards through the Old Georgetown Board.
Shopping and dining options line M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, the neighborhood’s main commercial corridors. Independent boutiques, chain stores, and restaurants cater to residents and visitors. The Georgetown Waterfront Park offers walking paths along the Potomac River with views of Virginia. Dean & DeLuca, a gourmet market, serves as a neighborhood gathering spot.
Georgetown University brings students and academic events to the area. The university’s campus features Gothic architecture and hosts lectures, sports events, and cultural programs. Dumbarton Oaks, a historic estate and research library, offers public gardens and museum exhibitions. Tudor Place, another historic house museum, provides glimpses into Georgetown’s past.
The C&O Canal towpath begins in Georgetown, offering miles of flat walking and cycling routes. Residents use the path for exercise and recreation, connecting to Great Falls and beyond. The neighborhood’s walkability scores among the highest in the region, with most errands possible on foot. Public schools serve younger residents, while private schools attract families throughout the metro area.
Market Value
| Property Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Build Year | 1910 |
| Purchase Year | 1992 |
| Purchase Price | $1.2 million |
| Current Estimated Value | $3.5 million |
| Property Type | Single-family townhouse |
| Lot Size | 0.08 acres |
| Square Footage | 4,500 sq ft |
| Bedrooms | 4 |
| Bathrooms | 3.5 |
| Last Renovation | 2005 |
Paul Tagliabue Real Estate Portfolio
Paul Tagliabue maintains a simple real estate portfolio focused on two properties. His primary residence in Georgetown has served as his main home for over 30 years. He purchased the property during his early years as NFL Commissioner when he needed a Washington D.C. base.
His second property sits in New Jersey, closer to his childhood roots in Jersey City. This vacation home provides a retreat from Washington’s political atmosphere. The New Jersey property remains modest compared to estates owned by NFL team owners. He uses this house for summer getaways and family gatherings.
Tagliabue grew up in Jersey City in a middle-class neighborhood. His childhood home, which his family no longer owns, was a modest single-family house typical of post-war suburban development. He attended public schools before earning scholarships to Georgetown University.
Unlike other sports commissioners who invested in multiple properties, Tagliabue kept his real estate holdings minimal. He never purchased properties in NFL cities or vacation destinations like Florida or California. His focus remained on his work rather than building a property empire. This conservative approach to real estate reflects his legal background and measured personality.
The Georgetown house appreciated significantly since his 1992 purchase. Property values in the neighborhood tripled during his ownership period. He made strategic renovations to maintain the home’s condition and update systems. The house now represents a substantial portion of his total net worth.
He never sold properties for profit or engaged in real estate speculation. Both homes remain in his possession, providing stability for his family. The Georgetown residence will likely stay in the family for years to come given its location and sentimental value.
Conclusion
The Paul Tagliabue house in Georgetown represents a lifetime of achievement in professional sports management. This Federal-style residence combines historic charm with modern comfort in one of Washington D.C.’s most exclusive neighborhoods. Tagliabue’s choice to remain in Georgetown after retirement shows his commitment to community and stability. The property’s value has grown from $1.2 million to $3.5 million, reflecting Georgetown’s enduring appeal. His modest real estate portfolio stands in contrast to flashier sports executives but suits his measured personality. The house serves as both a private sanctuary and a symbol of success earned through decades of strategic leadership in the NFL.
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