What airline did you look at? I just checked SW and it’s about $800.00 round trip
AA at $838 round trip. Will also need to book a hotel.
Suggestion: www.Priceline.com
Tickets purchased 48-24 hours prior to departure, are vastly cheaper.
(If assigned a low-maintenance carrier, BYO life vest)
I just checked Jet Blue. Long Beach - DC (IAD) is $119 out and $109 return. The outbound is limited at that price for a Sunday departure. Return on Tuesday is wide open at $109.