8 Best Places To Live In Maryland
Though it is the ninth smallest state in the United States, Maryland offers plenty in terms of wonderful weather, beautiful locations, and recreational activities. While it is no secret that there is a lot to see and do, there is a great deal of thought that goes into deciding where you should live next.
While the cost of living in the state is a bit high, the towns and cities offer low unemployment rates, diversity, and good school systems. Maryland is also home to some of the most beautiful historic towns.
Whether you are planning to settle down in Maryland or spend the next few years enjoying the beauty, these eight places may pique your interest and become your next home.
Havre de Grace
A suburb of just over 14,000 inhabitants in Baltimore, Havre de Grace is a popular tourist spot on the Chesapeake Bay. The waterfront views are only some of the beauty this town has to offer, with scenic trails, parks, and museums located nearby.
While there is plenty to do, the homes and rent remain reasonable. House prices currently sit around $380,000 while rent averages $1,300. Plus, there are lots of high-performing public schools to choose from, making Havre de Grace the perfect place to build a family.
Baltimore
With a population of over half a million, Baltimore is home to a number of historic neighborhoods, not to mention endless museums, restaurants, and entertainment options. You will also enjoy the beauty of all four seasons if you move to Baltimore, as well as exciting themed events such as the Caribbean and Waterfront festivals.
When it comes to living quarters, Baltimore is most popular for its row houses, but there are also old factories and mills converted into charming condos and apartments. The cost of living is reasonable, with homes around $206,000 while apartments go for $1,500. There are also a number of private and public schools, colleges, and universities. To top it all off, you can take a 45-minute train ride and find yourself immersed in the excitement of Washington, DC.
Annapolis
With a variety of historic inns, the beautiful Susan Campbell Park, and the sensational Annapolis City dock, it is no surprise that Annapolis is a great place to visit. The modest town of 40,000 people also boasts an abundance of job opportunities, and good schools, and is home to the US Naval Academy, making it a great spot to plant your roots.
As Maryland's capital city, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure and possibilities. The median home costs sit around $601,000, while apartments rent for approximately $2,200.
Bel Air
The county seat of Harford County, Maryland, Bel Air (sometimes confused with its namesake in California) is a residential neighborhood just outside of Baltimore. Whether you are into hiking and want to check out one of the many trails, consider yourself a foodie who seeks out every nearby restaurant, or find yourself interested in history and museums, there is something for everyone in Bel Air.
The average home in Bel Air is $430,000, and apartments rent for around $1,600. With a small population of around 10,000, the location boasts access to nearby schools which are highly rated, such as Bel Air High School. Many young professionals and retirees call Bel Air home.
Gaithersburg
Located northwest of Washington, Gaithersburg is a suburb and a multicultural city of almost 70,000 residents, boasting numerous historic landmarks. There are always ongoing events throughout the year, as well as a plethora of restaurants, shopping locations, and museums to choose from.
Relative to some other spots in Maryland, Gaithersburg is on the more affordable side of the spectrum. Homes average $420,000 while apartments tend to cost $1,900. There are also lots of job opportunities, high incomes, and plenty of schools, alongside a progressive and comfortable urban community.
Bethesda
Bethesda is a laid-back suburb with a population of 65,000, just north of Washington. The town offers a variety of restaurants and stores, not to mention a unique art and entertainment scene. There are plenty of gorgeous art lines on the streets, but you can also check out cinemas and live theaters regularly.
While there are opportunities for work in Bethesda, such as corporate headquarters and medical facilities, you can also choose to be a DC commuter. As an added benefit, you do not need a car since the location is very walkable and public transit is excellent. This is also ideal if you are on the hunt for somewhere to retire.
The cost of living is on the higher end with homes averaging $1.1 million, while apartments usually cost about $2,600. The schools are some of the top-ranked in Maryland, including Bannockburn Elementary School, Walt Whitman High School, and Walter Johnson High School.
Rockville
The vibrant city of Rockville is home to over 67,000 residents. Business-friendly, the location is home to a number of Biomed and technology companies, perfect for work opportunities. The Rockville Town Square, surrounded by restaurants and shops, includes a seasonal ice skating rink and park in the center.
Situated a short jaunt away from DC, residents have the best of both worlds with easy access to the city alongside the comfort of living in the suburbs. Housing prices sit just below $600,000, with apartments averaging at $2,100.
Columbia
The downtown sector of Columbia is the perfect place to build your small business or invest in a business. Consisting of ten self-contained villages with easy access to the national capital, Columbia blends the comfort and personality of a hometown with the excitement of a nearby city.
Columbia has over 100,000 residents and is close to a number of schools and universities; perfect if you want to head back to school or start a family. Homes cost approximately $460,000 and apartments rent for $1,900 on average. You will also find lots of lakes and parks, as well as sports clubs, theaters, and music, to suit the hobbies of everyone in your family!
Stay Merry in Maryland!
Will you call one of these places in Maryland your next home? Whether you fall in love with the magnificent peaks of the nearby mountainscape or the beaches and activities of the Chesapeake Bay, there is a perfect spot for everyone. Big and small families alike will find themselves submerged in these towns and cities, as they are each a logical and beautiful choice.
