16 Best places to live in Maryland

Maryland is one of the states on the East Coast of the United States and is known for its diverse terrain as well as its rich history and lively communities. From bustling cities to picturesque tiny towns. 

Maryland is a state with something to offer all. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 16 areas to live in Maryland by highlighting the qualities that make each city distinctive and an ideal location to live in.

Best Places To Live In Maryland

1-Annapolis

Annapolis is an American city in the Chesapeake Bay, known for its beautiful waterways, rich heritage as well as its sailing tradition. Annapolis is a perfect spot for those who enjoy the sea, are interested in the past, and appreciate the close-knit community. 

It is the home of the United States Naval Academy, which makes it a center for maritime culture and history. The downtown area is brimming with old structures, charming shops, and numerous eating options which makes it an ideal spot for a stroll or a night out.

Annapolis is also a great place to find options for outdoor recreation with many beaches, parks, and hiking trails throughout the region. Annapolis has also been home to numerous boating clubs and is a perfect location for boaters and sailors. Regarding real estate, Annapolis has a mix of townhouses, homes, and apartments for sale and with an average costing around $400,000.

2-Bethesda

Bethesda is an urban area within Montgomery County, known for its high-end dining and shopping options, top-rated schools, and high standard of living. It is a great place for those who love the luxury of life, live a hectic lifestyle, and are interested in education. 

The city has many high-end shopping centers with an array of designer stores as well as gourmet eateries. It is also known for its top schools, which makes it a preferred option for families.

Bethesda provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor pursuits, with numerous lakes, parks, and hiking trails within the region. Bethesda has a variety of cultural institutions, such as theatres and museums, and is a wonderful destination for people who love the arts. Regarding real estate, Bethesda has a mix of townhouses, single-family homes, and apartments for sale costing around $800,000.

3-Bowie

Bowie is one of the cities inside Prince George’s County, known for its sprawling park, low-cost housing, and its close distance from Washington D.C. 

Bowie is a great place to live for those who want an unhurried pace of life and love the great outdoors and require an easy connection to the capital of the United States. The city has numerous large parks, such as Allen Pond Park and the Bowie Baysox Stadium Park, which makes it an ideal spot for families as well as those who enjoy the outdoors.

Bowie is also an excellent location for commuters with the ability to easily access the cities of Washington D.C. and Baltimore. Regarding real property, Bowie has a mix of townhouses, single-family homes as well as apartments for sale in Bowie, with an average costing around $300,000. For those looking for an affordable lifestyle that is outdoors-oriented and has the convenience of two cities of the world, Bowie is a fantastic option.

4-Columbia

Columbia is an urban area within Howard County, known for its diverse population, vibrant art scene, and a number of excellent schools. It’s a perfect place for people who value diversity, appreciates the arts, and appreciate the education. 

This city has numerous cultural establishments, such as The Merriweather Post Pavilion which makes it a center for arts and music events. The city is also known for its outstanding schools, which makes it a top option for families.

Columbia has plenty of options to enjoy outdoor activities, including many parks, lakes, and hiking trails throughout the region. Columbia is also an area with a wide range of residents that offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. For real estate, Columbia has a mix of townhouses, single-family homes, and apartments for sale and with an average value of $400,000. If you’re looking for an educated, thriving community with a wide range of residents, Columbia is a great option.

5-Frederick

Frederick is one of the cities in Frederick County known for its historic and charming downtown, bustling art scene, and many outdoor activities available. It’s the perfect spot for people who appreciate history, appreciate the arts, and enjoy outdoor activities. 

The city has a historic downtown area packed with beautiful shops, eateries as well as activities for the culture. It is also famous for its vibrant culture, including a number of museums, theaters, and galleries located in the region.

Frederick has plenty of options to enjoy outdoor activities, including many lakes, parks, and hiking trails throughout the region. It’s also a top location for those who love to be outdoors and offers a wide range of activities for the adventurous such as kayaking, rock climbing as well as mountain bike riding. Regarding real estate, Frederick has a mix of townhouses, homes for sale, and apartments for sale, and a median home value of $400,000. For those looking for a beautiful artistic community, with lots of options for activities outdoors, Frederick is a great option.

6-Gaithersburg

Gaithersburg is an urban area inside Montgomery County, known for its increasing tech sector as well as affordable housing options and a family-friendly neighborhood. Gaithersburg is a great place to live for people working in technology who value affordability and enjoy a close-knit community. 

It is the home of an expanding technology industry, with a number of firms headquartered in the region. It is well-known for its affordability housing choices, which makes it a favorite option for families as well as first-time home buyers.

Gaithersburg has plenty of options to enjoy the outdoors, including many lakes, parks, and hiking trails throughout Gaithersburg. Gaithersburg has also been home to a lively community that offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. 

When it comes to real estate, Gaithersburg has a mix of townhouses, single-family homes, and apartments for sale in the area, with the median home costing around $400,000. If you are looking for a tech-oriented community with affordable housing, and an environment that is family-friendly, Gaithersburg is a great option.

7-Rockville

Rockville is one of the cities inside Montgomery County, known for its central location, vibrant communities, and high standard of living. It’s a perfect area for people who appreciate the accessibility, value the diversity of its residents, and appreciate an active lifestyle. 

The city is in the heart of Montgomery County, making it an ideal location for commuters. It also has many diverse communities, offering numerous restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options.

Rockville has plenty of options for outdoor pursuits, with many lakes, parks, and hiking trails within the region. It has numerous cultural institutions, such as theaters and museums, and is a wonderful location for those who enjoy the arts. When it comes to real estate, Rockville has a mix of townhouses, single-family homes, and apartments, and the median home is worth about $500,000. If you’re looking for a centrally-located and diverse community that offers an excellent standard of living, Rockville is a great alternative.

8-Silver Spring

Silver Spring is a city situated inside Montgomery County, known for its lively arts scene, the booming technology sector, and affordable housing choices. Silver Spring is a great place to live for people who work in the field of technology or enjoy the arts and appreciate affordability. 

This city has an expanding tech sector and is popular for its vibrant arts scene with a number of galleries, museums, and theaters located in the vicinity. The city offers many food, shopping, and entertainment options, catering to a wide range of people.

Silver Spring is an affordable alternative for those wanting to reside in Montgomery County, with a mixture of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments and an average price of about $400,000. Outdoor recreation is also accessible in the region, with lakes, parks, and hiking trails that are at close distance.

9-Ellicott City

Ellicott City is a storied city that is located within Howard County, known for its charming downtown area, tight-knit community, and beautiful nature. The city has a charming downtown, which is home to a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and cultural activities. 

Ellicott City has an intimate community that offers many leisure and social activities to choose from.

The city is close to a number of parks and natural zones, which makes it a favorite location for those who love the outdoors. When it comes to real estate, Ellicott City has a range of single-family homes as well as townhouses and apartments, with an average price of homes being around $500,000. If you are looking for a small-town experience within Howard County, Ellicott City is a fantastic option.

10-Towson

Towson is a city in the suburbs situated inside Baltimore County, known for its outstanding schools, lively social scene, as well as affordable housing alternatives. Towson is home to a highly regarded school system, which makes it a top option for families with children who are in school. Towson is also a thriving social scene with many eating, shopping, and entertainment options.

The city has affordable housing options, including an array of single-family houses townhouses, townhouses, and apartments for rent, with average prices of $300,000 for homes. Outdoor activities are also available in the area with numerous parks and recreation zones close to it. If you’re looking for a welcoming family community that offers a solid education system, and decent housing prices, Towson is a great alternative.

11-Catonsville

Catonsville is a charming, historic town that is located in Baltimore County, Maryland. With less than 41,000, Catonsville offers a unique mix of suburban and urban living. Catonsville is renowned for its gorgeous parks, well-maintained homes, and a strong sense of community. Furthermore, Catonsville is home to many top schools and is a perfect location to raise your family.

Catonsville’s story is traced back to the late 1700s as the city has managed to keep much of its historical character. This is evident in the charming downtown with a wide array of small eateries and shops. The town also has many historic sites, including the Bloede Dam as well as Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum. 

For those who love outdoor life, Catonsville has plenty to provide. Catonsville has several parks that include Patapsco Valley State Park and Benjamin Banneker Park. These parks provide a wide range of activities for recreation, including hiking, fishing, and boating. In addition, Catonsville is located just an hour’s drive from many other outdoor destinations, including The Chesapeake Bay and the Appalachian Mountains.

For education purposes, Catonsville is served by Baltimore County Public Schools, which are regularly listed among the top schools in the country. Catonsville has numerous private schools in addition to Baltimore County Community College. Community College of Baltimore County offers a wide selection of learning opportunities that are available to all students of different ages.

Catonsville is a great location for those who cherish the past as well as a strong sense of community, and an excellent quality of living. If you’re looking to start your family, seek the pursuit of an educational degree, or just take in the outdoor space, Catonsville has something to offer.

12-Chestertown

Chestertown is an old and beautiful town on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. With around 5,000 people, Chestertown offers a unique combination of small-town life and accessibility to all the conveniences offered by a larger city. Chestertown is renowned for its preserved historic architecture stunning parks, as well as strong community spirit.

The town’s history goes to the time of the colonial period which is why the town has managed to keep a lot of its historical appeal. This is evident in the charming downtown with a wide array of restaurants, shops, and art galleries. In addition, Chestertown is home to many historic buildings, including The Garfield Center for the Arts and the Chestertown Tea Party Museum.

For those who love the outdoor life, Chestertown has plenty to provide. The town is surrounded by stunning forests and parks which include those of Elk Neck State Park and the Fairlee Creek Natural Resource Management Area. The parks provide a range of leisure activities like fishing, hiking, and boating. Furthermore, Chestertown is located just minutes away from many other outdoor destinations, including The Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Chestertown is well-known for its outstanding opportunities for education. It is home to Washington College, a highly-regarded liberal arts institution. Furthermore, Chestertown is served by the Kent County Public Schools, which are regularly listed among the top schools in the state.

13-Easton

Easton is a historical and picturesque town on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. With less than 15,000 residents, Easton offers a unique mix of small-town life and accessibility to all the conveniences of a bigger city. Easton is known for its gorgeous parks, well-maintained homes, and a strong sense of community.

The town’s history goes to the colonial age and the town has managed to keep a lot of its historical appeal. This is evident in the beautiful downtown that is home to a range of small restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Furthermore, Easton is home to numerous historic buildings, such as The Talbot County Courthouse and the Avalon Theatre.

If you’re looking to enjoy outdoor life, Easton has plenty to provide. Easton is surrounded by stunning forests and parks, such as The Tuckahoe State Park and the Adkins Arboretum. These parks offer a wide range of leisure activities including fishing, hiking, and boating. Furthermore, Easton is located just minutes away from several other outdoor destinations, including those of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Easton is also famous for its exceptional education opportunities. Easton is home to many excellent schools, such as Easton Elementary School as well as St. Michaels Middle High School. Furthermore, Easton is located just an hour’s drive from numerous universities and colleges, such as Chesapeake College and Salisbury University.

14-St. Michaels

St. Michaels is a picturesque and historic town that is located on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. St. Michaels offers an exceptional blend of rural living with accessibility to all the conveniences offered by a larger city. St. Michaels is famous for its stunning parks, well-maintained houses, and a strong sense of community.

St. Michaels’ history is rooted in colonial times and St. Michaels has been able to keep much of its historical character. This can be seen in the beautiful downtown that is home to a range of restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Furthermore, St. Michaels is the home of several historical places, such as St. Michaels’ Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and the St. Michaels Nature Trail.

If you’re a fan of outdoor life, St. Michaels has lots to provide. St. Michaels is located in stunning forests and parks, which include those along the St. Michaels Nature Trail and the Miles River Waterfront Park. These parks offer a wide range of activities for recreation, like fishing, hiking, and boating. Furthermore, St. Michaels is situated just a few minutes from other outdoor activities such as The Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

St. Michaels is also well-known for its outstanding educational opportunities. St. Michaels is served by Talbot County Public Schools, which are regularly considered among the best across the nation. In addition, St. Michaels is situated just a short distance from numerous universities and colleges such as Chesapeake College and Salisbury University.

15-Havre de Grace

Havre de Grace is a beautiful and historic town that is located in the Susquehanna River in Harford County, Maryland. 

Havre de Grace offers a unique mix of small-town life and access to amenities offered by a larger city. Havre de Grace is known for its gorgeous parks, well-maintained houses, and a strong sense that community is a priority.

Havre de Grace has a long and rich history that dates back to the colonial period and the town has managed to keep a lot of its historic beauty. This is evident in the beautiful downtown with a wide array of local restaurants, small shops, and art galleries. In addition, Havre de Grace is the home of several historical places, such as the Havre de Grace Promenade, and the Susquehanna Museum at the Lock House.

If you’re a fan of outdoor life, Havre de Grace has many things to provide. Havre de Grace is located in stunning forests and parks, such as those Susquehanna State Park and the Conowingo Dam Park. The parks provide a range of leisure activities like fishing, hiking, and boating. In addition, Havre de Grace is situated just a few minutes from a variety of other outdoor destinations such as those of the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

Havre de Grace is also well-known for its outstanding opportunities for education. It is home to Havre de Grace City Public Schools which are regularly listed among the top within the State. Furthermore, Havre de Grace is located just a short distance from a variety of universities and colleges which include Harford Community College and Towson University.

If you’re looking to start children, get the pursuit of an educational degree, or enjoy nature, Havre de Grace has many things to offer anyone.

16-Ocean City

Ocean City is a resort town on the Atlantic coast of Maryland. With around 7,000 residents. Ocean City is a popular spot for people looking to get away from the bustle and craziness of urban life. Ocean City is famous for its stunning beaches, well-maintained houses, and strong sense of community.

Ocean City has a rich heritage that dates back to the early 19th century when it was established as a beach resort. The town today is a sought-after tourist destination for locals alike, providing a broad variety of leisure activities. They include Ocean City Beach, the Boardwalk as well as Jolly Roger Amusement Park. 

If you’re a fan of nature, Ocean City has plenty to provide. The city is surrounded by stunning forests and parks, which include those of the Assateague Island National Seashore and the Ocean City State Park. The parks provide a range of activities for recreation, including fishing, hiking, and boating. Furthermore, Ocean City is located within a short drive of many other outdoor destinations which include Ocean City, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Ocean City is also known for its exceptional education options. Ocean City serves by Worcester County Public Schools, which are regularly considered among the top within the State. Furthermore, Ocean City is located within a short distance of many universities and colleges such as Salisbury University and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

FAQs

Are there affordable cities to live in in Maryland?

Yes, there are affordable cities in Maryland such as Frederick, Hagerstown, and Salisbury. They have a lower cost of living in comparison to cities such as Bethesda and Columbia and provide an acceptable standard of living for those living on a tight budget. 

Frederick can be described as a charming town with a rich and rich history in addition, Hagerstown is a thriving city that is experiencing growth in its economy. Salisbury is a beach city that has a flourishing culture and lots of opportunities for outdoor pursuits.

What cities in Maryland are best for professionals?

For professionals looking for a place to work, places such as Bethesda, Rockville, and Gaithersburg are excellent options. These cities are booming job markets, which cover many industries and are easily accessible to major cities such as Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. Bethesda is a sophisticated city with active nightlife in contrast, Rockville or Gaithersburg tend to be more rural and more family-friendly.

Are there any environmentally-friendly cities in Maryland?

Yes, there are several environmentally-friendly cities in Maryland, including Takoma Park, Bowie, and Annapolis. These cities are green and place a high priority on the sustainable development of the environment. 

Takoma Park is a small city that is known for its dedication to the environment. Bowie and Annapolis each have a particular commitment to preserving the open space and encouraging outdoor activities.

What are the best coastal cities in Maryland to live in?

Maryland is home to a variety of beautiful coast cities each having distinct characteristics and attractions. The top cities along the coast to live in are Ocean City, Annapolis, and Cambridge. Ocean City is a popular beach spot that is famous for its boardwalk, amusement parks, and water activities. 

Annapolis is a city that has been around for centuries with a charming central area and a thriving boating community, as well as a myriad of attractions for the culture. Cambridge is a small town situated on the Eastern Shore, known for its seafood, and outdoor recreation possibilities.

What are some of the safest cities in Maryland to live in?

Security is a top concern for a lot of families and individuals. 

There are many cities in Maryland with very low crime rates with a strong feeling community. 

The safest cities to reside in are Rockville, Gaithersburg, and Eldersburg. These cities have low rates of crime as well as good schools and many facilities to take advantage of.

Conclusion

Maryland is one of the states that has numerous communities and cities that each have distinctive characteristics and amenities. From bustling suburbs to charming small towns, there’s plenty to offer every person in Maryland. If you’re seeking an area with affluence and excellent education, an appealing town style, or a city that has an active cultural scene, there’s an area in Maryland that can fulfill your desires.

When deciding where to reside in Maryland, it is crucial to take into consideration factors like the cost of living and crime rate, and the proximity to services. Also, you should consider your individual desires, such as having accessibility to outdoor activities or a lively social scene.

No matter what your goals are, there’s an area in Maryland that will meet your requirements. You can choose between an urban setting or a peaceful suburban area or a small historic town, Maryland has numerous possibilities to choose from. With its varied communities and numerous facilities, Maryland is a great location to live in.