Suburban Maryland Neighborhood Guides
Jump to a Neighborhood
Montgomery County: Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Silver Spring | Howard County: Columbia, Laurel | Anne Arundel County: Annapolis, Arnold, Crofton, Crownsville, Gambrills, Millersville, Odenton, Severna Park | Prince George's County: Bowie, Fairwood, Lanham, Westphalia
Montgomery County
About
Montgomery County borders the far reaches of upper Northwest D.C. and follows the I-270 corridor between the Potomac and Patuxent Rivers. It's Maryland's most populated and affluent county. Communities within the county will range from very urban-feeling areas close to D.C. to suburbs as you move away from the city.
Neighbors
Many government workers trek into D.C., successful attorneys, doctors, and business professionals. Areas closest to D.C. will come with a steep price tag due to proximity. You may bump into some high-ranking military officers in those areas, but we would wager that even they are a dual-income family.
Schools
Montgomery County Public Schools is one of the largest school systems in the entire United States. The district is divided into clusters, which are geographically defined attendance areas and include elementary and middle schools that feed into particular high schools.
Students are assigned to a school based on their home address; if you reside outside the Montgomery County Public School system and choose to attend a school in this district, you will incur tuition costs.
Every eighth-grade student enters a lottery to enroll in their school of choice. Each high school offers distinctive academy programs designed to capture students' interests.
Points of Interest
The Avalon Theatre
The Avenue - A small cluster of local shops and restaurants along Connecticut Avenue
Woodend Sanctuary
Capital Crescent Trail, linking to Georgetown and Silver Spring
Cabin John Regional Park
Bethesda Row and Woodmont Triangle Shopping
AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center
The Fillmore
Wheaton Regional Park
Brookside Gardens
Downtown Silver Spring Market
Bethesda
Bethesda was, until recently, considered a bedroom community. But over the last decade, Bethesda has exploded and become a destination with renowned shopping and dining, a vibrant downtown, and affluent neighborhoods replete with grand homes and country clubs.
Big Plus
Commuting to Walter Reed is ideal, but getting too many other D.C. area installations is feasible, especially if you plan to use public transit.
There are many employment opportunities for spouses in Bethesda-and you'll probably need that second income to afford living here.
The last decade has seen a boom in new development, bringing in retail and restaurants to suit every style and desire.
Schools fall within the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Cluster. Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School's International Baccalaureate program offers a more global approach to education and emphasizes an internationally recognized program of study.
Things to Consider
Parking can be scarce, but several public garages and surface lots exist.
Traffic, as always, is a consideration if you plan to drive yourself to and from work.
Bethesda is pricey, and you'll have to dig to find something even remotely close to an average BAH rate or be prepared to sacrifice drastically on space.
Commute
For those assigned to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, you can't beat this commute. The public transportation system is well-connected and robust on the Metro Red line.
Chevy Chase
Chevy Chase, Bethesda's neighbor to the east, embodies small-town Americana with picturesque homes and tree-lined streets. This high-end suburb is replete with green lawns and sleepy streets and provides a refuge from bustling city life. It is a welcoming, family-friendly locale with a quaint downtown that supplies devoted locals with everyday necessities.
Big Plus
This suburb is far enough away from the hustle and bustle of D.C. to provide a quiet refuge for its residents, yet close enough to experience all that downtown D.C. has to offer.
Chevy Chase boasts tree-lined streets with shaded sidewalks, manicured lawns with well-maintained bungalows, colonials, and Tudor-style homes. However, there are a few condos available near the commercial district.
Schools fall within the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Cluster. Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School's International Baccalaureate program offers a more global approach to education and emphasizes an internationally recognized program of study.
Things to Consider
Though quaint, the small 1950s-era main street may leave some yearning for more options. Like in Maryland and D.C., the surrounding neighborhoods can fill the "big box" void.
Be on the lookout for wildlife and the occasional deer that can wander into your backyard from neighboring Rock Creek Park!
Commute
When residing in Chevy Chase, you will most likely need a car or two. The nearest Metro station is in Bethesda (Red Line).
Silver Spring
Silver Spring was named for a spring that seemed to sparkle from specks of mica that gave the water a glittery luminescence. The spring is dry, but the city is a thriving D.C. suburb with urban amenities. Dynamic shopping options, eclectic restaurants, and a community-focused arts and entertainment district have helped make Silver Spring a location worth considering.
Big Plus
Downtown Silver Spring is a destination in and of itself. The area is brimming with great shopping, restaurants serving a variety of global cuisines, outdoor festivals, and community events. New retailers are consistently moving in, and employers like NOAA, Discovery Communications, and the American Film Institute have put down roots in Silver Spring.
Montgomery County Public Schools are considered by many to be some of the best in the country. One of Silver Spring's high schools, Montgomery Blair High School, is known for its two magnet programs - Math, Science, Computer Science, and a Communication Arts Program.
Silver Spring is family-friendly with parks, museums, entertainment, and events for kids of all ages.
Things to Consider
While plenty of shops and restaurants are available to fulfill your daily needs, chains and big-box stores aren't as open here. Nearby, Bethesda and neighboring D.C. can fill in any gaps.
Street parking can be a challenge, but several large parking garages are downtown. The area is very pedestrian friendly, so do like the locals do and just walk!
Schools in Silver Spring are a part of the Downtown Consortium, which contains over 80 schools.
Commute
You could potentially "go one car" here with the abundance of public transit options, which is unique for a relatively quiet suburb. The Metrorail's Red Line services the area with a transportation hub in Silver Spring that also has stops for the MARC train and multiple local and Metro bus routes. Walter Reed is the ideal commute from this suburb, but getting on the Metro to the other D.C.-area installations can be an option. If you drive to and from work, the traffic is considerable during rush hour. This segment of the Beltway sees some of the region's heaviest traffic.
Howard County
About
Howard County is sandwiched between the DC and Baltimore metropolitan areas. This area can open up possibilities for career-minded spouses in both major cities.
Neighbors
Columbia, the largest city in Howard County, was designed to be a paragon of diversity and strives to have housing suitable for various budgets. Townhomes, single-family homes, condominiums, and apartments are all found here. As you move west along the Interstate 70 corridor, the communities become more spread out, and many are downright expensive.
Commute
There is quick access from Columbia to MD-32 (Patuxent Freeway), US Hwy 29, and Interstate 95. Your time will increase as you move west. Though there's no metro access here, there are MARC stations in Savage, Jessup, and Dorsey. North Laurel and Columbia areas are well connected with commuter buses. Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is easily accessible.
Schools
Howard County School District boasts 42 elementary schools, and 20 middle and twelve high schools. With this many options, it is essential to research the schools carefully and verify your zoning directly with the district.
More than 57,000 students are enrolled in 77 schools in the Howard County Public School System. Four elementary schools, six middle schools, and one high school were named Blue Ribbon Schools.
Private schools in Columbia include Columbia Academy, Atholton Adventist Academy, Celebration Christian Academy, Love of Learning Montessori School, and The Julia Brown Schools (Montessori).
Points of Interest
Lake Kittamaqundi
Robinson Nature Center
Lake Elkhorn Park
Historic Oakland Mansion
Patuxent Branch Trail
Mall of Columbia
Columbia
Columbia is one of the most popular locales in the area. A master-planned community founded in the 1960s, Columbia is comprised of ten "villages," each with several neighborhoods offering a variety of home styles, recreation activities, schools, and shopping options.
Big Plus
The Columbia Association provides a nearly endless list of amenities-golf courses, an equestrian center, fitness clubs, outdoor concerts, a nature center, a farmers' market, a dog park, and an ice rink, to name a few!
The quality of life in Columbia is excellent, with a fantastic variety of housing options, school options, and community amenities.
Things to Consider
Between the Columbia Association fee and HOA fees, costs can add up.
Columbia lacks a MARC station, making commutes to Washington, D.C., car-dependent.
Commute
Anything along the Interstate 95 corridor between the D.C. metro area and Baltimore is bound to be busy. Commute buses and carpool options are scattered across the city, but you'll need to drive a bit to get to a MARC station. This location is ideal for anyone heading to Fort Meade, but anything south of D.C. will be quite a haul.
Laurel
Located north of D.C. and west of Fort Meade, Laurel straddles three counties - Anne Arundel, Howard, and Prince George's County. Laurel has a small historic district where you can see remnants of its past as a mill town and is known for affordability and convenience.
Big Plus
Two MARC stations allow for commutes from Laurel to D.C.
Laurel is more affordable than some nearby areas.
The annual Main Street Festival is a celebration of Laurel that draws thousands of people and features a parade, food vendors, and bands.
Things to Consider
There are plenty of safe, nice areas, but some places haven't been maintained. Be sure to research the surrounding areas of any property you are considering.
Since parts of Laurel fall under three counties, property taxes and school options will vary depending on where you live in Laurel.
With three school districts and hundreds of school options, there's a lot to consider. Spend time browsing the school district sites to familiarize yourself with your options.
Commute
The commute to Fort Meade is short, about 15 to 20 minutes in ideal traffic conditions, and can be as long as 30 minutes during peak travel times. Laurel is close to MD-200 (Intercounty Connector), MD-295 (Baltimore-Washington Parkway), US Highway 1, and Interstate 95. Laurel also has two MARC stations, which are good options for Washington, D.C. commuters.
Anne Arundel County
About
Anne Arundel County is located on the western shore of the Chesapeake and is home to Annapolis, Maryland's state capital. This area is deeply influenced by its proximity to the greater D.C. metro area and the maritime history of Annapolis. You'll see those influences more profound depending on which side of the site you live in.
Neighbors
The western side of Anne Arundel county will be more deeply connected to the greater D.C. area, with professionals commuting into D.C. or other locations around the region. Some may even commute to Baltimore.
Commute
Commuters will primarily rely on driving from this region as it lies just outside the reach of the WMATA transportation network. MARC offers the Penn line train, which stops in Odenton, along with some commuter bus routes that might be an option. Those assigned to Fort Meade, Joint Base Andrews, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, and the United States Naval Academy will find this a convenient location.
Schools
Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) is a large district with 128 schools enrolling approximately 83,000 students. Eighteen schools in the community were recipients of the National Blue Ribbon, an award recognizing overall academic excellence or a school's progress in closing achievement gaps. Additionally, 21 AACPS schools won the Maryland Blue Ribbon.
Schools in the AACPS district are well-versed in addressing the needs of military children, with around 8,000 military-connected children in the district.
With so many schools in this district, it's essential to research your school options carefully and verify zoning directly with the district.
Points of Interest
Walden Country Club
Globecom Wildlife Management Area
Crofton Park
Bell Branch Athletic Complex
Chartwell Golf & Country Club
Kinder Farm Park
Severn River Sanctuary
Magothy River
B&A Trail
Olde Severna Park - Historic Downtown
Eisenhower Golf Course
Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds
Maryland Renaissance Festival
Bacon Ridge Natural Area
Crofton
Crofton is a sought-after community south of Fort Meade and west of Annapolis and the United States Naval Academy. The town is encircled by a four-mile parkway, with all the Crofton elementary schools located within this family-oriented development.
Big Plus
Housing options consist of townhomes, apartments, and single-family homes. Mature trees are plentiful, adding to the park-like feel of the area.
Crofton public schools enjoy excellent ratings and are quite desirable.
As a master-planned community, numerous amenities are available to residents, including pools, trails, and athletic fields.
Things to Consider
Traffic can be significant in the area and can lengthen the commute to Fort Meade.
Commute
Crofton is close to major thoroughfares. The commute to Annapolis is about 20 minutes in ideal traffic conditions. Driving to Fort Meade will take at least 30 minutes.
Crownsville
Follow the Severn River northwest from Annapolis, and you will reach Crownsville. This small town is close to Annapolis but offers quiet living, excellent schools, and beautiful vistas.
Big Plus
Many communities in Crownsville have water access available to residents, a boon if you enjoy the water!
Many established neighborhoods along the Severn River were built as vacation homes and are now used as year-round residences. There are reasonably priced properties to be found in these designated areas.
Things to Consider
Crownsville is nearly all residential. Shopping is available about ten minutes away in Millersville.
There are no public beaches or marinas in town; access is limited to those living in the beachfront communities.
Commute
Crownsville is approximately 15 to 20 minutes from downtown Annapolis and 20-30 minutes from Fort Meade. It generally does not experience heavy traffic patterns. Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling and Joint Base Andrews are about an hour away, but other installations in the D.C. metro area will be far from here.
Millersville
Millersville is a small area known for being a bit more affordable than nearby Severna Park. The homes are mainly from the '60s, '70s, and '80s. Families are attracted to the more reasonable home prices and stellar schools.
Big Plus
Your housing dollars will go further in Millersville.
Schools are excellent in this small community and include some private school options, such as Elvaton Christian Academy and Rockbridge Academy.
Things to Consider
Millersville is quiet and does not have as many suburban perks as some of the neighboring areas.
Commute
There is quick access to MD-3 (Crain Highway), MD-32 (Patuxent Freeway), MD-175, MD-178, and Interstate 97.
Odenton
Located just south of Fort Meade, Odenton is a growing town that boasts excellent schools, varied housing options, and easy access to public transportation. Families are particularly fond of this area; you will see many children running around Odenton's subdivisions.
Big Plus
Odenton is close to Fort Meade, making for easy commutes.
Schools in Odenton are well regarded.
With a MARC station in town, those commuting to D.C. can take public transportation.
Things to Consider
Traffic can be heavy, particularly around rush hour.
Townhomes are common. Though most properties were built in the last century, some new construction is available.
Commute
Odenton has the advantage of offering public transportation options for travel into Washington, D.C. There is a MARC (Maryland Rail Commuter service) station in town, which is a boon to commuters and those who wish to explore the nation's capital. There is quick access from Odenton to most of the major thoroughfares. The commute to Fort Meade is short, and the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport is easily accessible.
Severna Park
Severna Park is the most upscale of the communities surrounding Fort Meade. Bordered by the Severn River to the southwest and the Magothy River to the northeast, Severna Park has many waterfront properties available, and all residents enjoy the beauty of the waterways.
Big Plus
Severna Park has more detached properties available than the surrounding communities if you're hoping to settle in a single-family house instead of a townhome.
With two rivers in the town, Severna Park has beautiful views.
Severna Park is close to Annapolis, the beautiful state capital and home to the United States Naval Academy.
Schools in Severna Park are top-notch at every level.
Things to Consider
Severna Park is pricey. Expect to pay a premium for living in this "tony" (posh) area.
Traffic is a fact of life and can extend commute times.
Severna Park lacks public transportation options for travel into Washington, D.C. There is no MARC station.
Commute
There is quick access from Severna Park to major highways. The commute to Fort Meade is a half hour in ideal traffic conditions and can take up to 45 minutes during peak travel times. The Commute to the United States Naval Academy is typically between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the location.
Prince George's County
About
Located right along the eastern border of Washington, D.C., Prince George's County is a bustling extension of the D.C. metropolitan area. Next to Montgomery County, it's the second most populous county in Maryland. It's also home to Joint Base Andrews, Anacostia-Bolling, and many other federal government facilities.
Neighbors
This county attracts working- and middle-class families to the area and embraces the diversity that the National Capital Region prides itself on. Due to its proximity to the Beltway, many are employed in government and non-profit sectors, particularly education, health care, and social services. Areas closest to the city are urban and densely populated, with areas to the south retaining a very rural feel.
Commute
Interstate 495 is a significant connector through this area. Areas inside the Beltway offer a few Metro Stations, but the MARC transit stations are limited to the northern portions of the county.
Schools
Prince George's County Public Schools includes more than 200 schools and more than 136,000 students. There are also numerous private school options in the northern part of the county. Prince George's County Public Schools offer unique learning opportunities, including career-readiness programs, dual enrollment, and language immersion. With more than 200 schools in the district, it is essential to research the schools carefully and verify your zoning directly with the district before committing to a home. Transfers from the district are not shared in Maryland, so your school choice is essential.
Points of Interest
Montpelier Mansion, National Wildlife Visitor Center, Laurel Park, Patuxent Research Refuge - North Tract, Laurel Museum, Laurel MARC Station, The Gardens Ice House, Dinosaur Park, Six Flags America, Bowie Railroad Museum, National Capital Radio and Television Museum, Belair Mansion, Belair Stable Museum, NASA Goddard Visitor Center, and Allen Pond Park.
Bowie
Nestled between the Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, MD, commuting areas, Bowie is a suburban haven home to more than 55,000 residents. Despite its proximity to two major metropolitan areas, Bowie is proud to claim more than 1,100 acres of parks and preserved open spaces, including more than 22 miles of paths and trails and 75 ball fields.
Big Plus
A MARC station located at Bowie State University, along with a nearby park-and-ride option for commuter buses and vanpools, offer convenient options for commuters.
Located between D.C. and Baltimore, you can enjoy all those cities with an easy drive or train ride in the middle of three major cities: D.C.
Career-minded spouses have plenty of employment opportunities to consider within a short commute.
Things to Consider
There are plenty of great neighborhoods, but pockets of areas haven't been as well-maintained. Be sure to research the surrounding areas of any property you are considering.
Traffic can be significant in the area and can lengthen the commute to Joint Base Andrews and Fort Meade.
Commute
Bowie is located approximately fifteen minutes outside the Beltway so most commuting options will center around I-495 and I-295. MARC trains are accessible at the Bowie State University station. The commute to Joint Base Andrews or Fort Meade is about 30 minutes in ideal traffic conditions and can be as long as 45 minutes during peak travel times.
Fairwood
Fairwood is a sought-after community in Prince George's County located northeast of Joint Base Andrews. Fairwood encompasses only 3.5 square miles and has a total of 1,800 homes. Though tiny compared to its big-city neighbors, it offers an impressive array of amenities, including walking paths, ponds, community areas, a community center, pools, parks, recreational complexes, and nature trails.
Big Plus
As a master-planned community, numerous amenities are available to residents, including pools, trails, and athletic fields.
Located between D.C. and Baltimore, you can enjoy all those cities with an easy drive or train ride.
Thrill-seekers will enjoy the fact that Six Flags America is on the south side of Fairwood, a mere ten-minute drive away.
Things to Consider
Since this is a relatively small area, the inventory can be similarly limited and likely move quickly.
Most new construction in Fairwood has ended, so you'll be looking at an array of existing single-family homes and several options for townhomes and condominiums.
Traffic can be significant in the area and will lengthen the commute to nearby bases.
Commute
Fairwood is located approximately fifteen minutes outside the Beltway via either Annapolis Road or John Hanson Highway. Any MARC stations do not serve Fairwood, so you'd need a car to get to the closest stations in Lanham or Bowie. Fort Meade, Joint Base Andrews, and Anacostia-Bolling are the tightest installations.
Lanham
Lanham is located northeast of Washington, D.C., just outside the Beltway, in Prince George's County, Maryland, and is well-suited for anyone seeking convenient commute options and easy access to the services, amenities, and attractions that both cities offer. Lanham has a busy Town Center with plenty of shopping and dining options and several great parks and green spaces for recreation.
Big Plus
Easy access to I-495 and Joint Base Andrews
Offers homes suitable for various needs and budgets, including single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums.
Convenient to major retail centers, and medical services, both within Lanham and in surrounding towns - including a Wegmans for the foodies!
Things to Consider
As with any area on the edge of a central metropolitan area and along a major highway, some areas aren't as well-maintained or may have substantial traffic noise. A trusted real estate agent will help you identify areas that are a good fit for you.
The area is entirely developed, so new construction is hard to find. Still, there are plenty of options for homes built within the last ten years, older homes that have been thoughtfully renovated, or fixer-uppers for those seeking value.
Commute
Lanham is located just outside the Beltway, which makes it well-connected to most major thoroughfares. Fort Meade, Joint Base Andrews, and Anacostia-Bolling are the closest installations. Lanham is conveniently located at the Seabrook MARC station, New Carrollton MARC, and Metro Stations.
Westphalia
Westphalia is a master-planned community in central Prince George's County, tucked between Largo, Upper Marlboro, and Joint Base Andrews. Westphalia is worth considering for its diversity, convenient location, and impressive amenities, including walking paths, ponds, community areas, and parks. Future development plans include proposals for another elementary school, a library, and mixed-use development.
Big Plus
Master-planned communities offer great amenities to their residents
Easy access to I-495 and Joint Base Andrews
Continued growth and development in the community may mean more housing options available.
Things to Consider
Since Westphalia is still growing, some amenities aren't available yet, and areas are under development.
While it does have some retail and dining options, large retail centers with big box stores and medical services are located in surrounding towns such as District Heights, Largo, Upper Marlboro, and Clinton.
Commute
Westphalia is located on the edge of the Beltway, so it is well-connected in either direction. Joint Base Andrews and Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling are the closest installations. MARC Park and Ride lots are located in Upper Marlboro for those commuting into D.C.
Arnold
Across the Severn River from Annapolis, Arnold is a waterfront town on the Broadneck Peninsula that stretches to the shores of the Magothy River to the north. There is a small-town feel to this somewhat secluded area. Arnold enjoys the same natural beauty as Annapolis but without the hustle and bustle of the larger city.
Big Plus
Arnold has more options for middle-class buyers than nearby Annapolis.
The pace of life in Arnold is more relaxed. Families appreciate the laid-back vibe.
Schools are top-notch in Arnold.
Things to Consider
Though you can find reasonably priced properties in Arnold, prices creep up as you get closer to the waterfront and can quickly exceed the budget of most military families. Be realistic about what your budget will allow.
Commute
The commute to the United States Naval Academy is ideal, about ten minutes without any major traffic concerns. Fort Meade is about 30 minutes but will increase during peak traffic times.
Gambrills
Gambrills is a small town nestled between Odenton and Crofton. This friendly community is increasing and is close to the MARC commuter station in Odenton. Though its small size may fool you, Gambrills is a favorite shopping destination with many upscale tenants.
Big Plus
Larger homes are available in this upscale community.
It offers a welcome change of pace from some of the more densely populated areas nearby.
There's a Wegmans-the best grocery store ever!
Things to Consider
Gambrills is missing some of the amenities of the larger master-planned communities nearby, such as equestrian centers and skating rinks.
Commute
Gambrills has quick access to the major roads in the area. Fort Meade is a short drive to the northwest.
Annapolis
Quaint and charming are common descriptors for Annapolis, a coastal town best known for being the state capital of Maryland and home to the United States Naval Academy. The historic downtown area is the heart of Annapolis. There is a lot to do in this highly walkable area, from exploring the City Dock to enjoying a cold treat at one of the city's many ice cream parlors.
Big Plus
You will not lack things to do in this vibrant city, with its robust cultural scene, great restaurants, and nearly every water-based activity you can imagine.
The area-especially the quaint downtown-is beautiful and desirable, with lots of character and charm.
Naval Academy Primary School is a private elementary school open to children of active-duty and retired military personnel and USNA employees. The school's primary mission is to serve the children from the Annapolis-area military community, and the school is particularly adept at addressing their needs. The school is conveniently located close to both the USNA and NSA-Annapolis.
Things to Consider
Prepare yourself for the sticker shock-this area can be very pricey, especially near the water.
Annapolis loses some of its charms and has a typical suburban vibe outside the historic area.
Traffic congestion is a reality in this famous town, especially when there is an event at the Naval Academy and during peak tourist season.
Annapolis has an income disparity, with some low-income areas peppered among exclusive neighborhoods. There are limited property options for the middle class.
Commute
Traffic can be a consideration, particularly during the peak tourist season in the summer and when the Naval Academy hosts significant events. The commute from Annapolis to the Naval Academy is speedy, just minutes in most parts of town. Fort Meade is about an hour in peak traffic, but other D.C. area installations will likely be too far.