Summary
Maryland is the ninth smallest state in the U.S. and exhibits considerable variation in demographics, climate, geography, and socio-economic status.
Despite its modest size, the Old Line State is recognized as one of the most active states, driven by a robust tourism industry and a diverse economy. It frequently competes for the title of the wealthiest state, with residents enjoying some of the highest incomes in the nation. The cost of living is elevated, particularly concerning housing and other expenses.
Rich in history, Maryland is a pioneer in numerous aspects and continues to lead into the 21st century. For those contemplating relocation, the quality of life here is unparalleled. Nicknamed Little America, the state boasts a low unemployment rate, diversity, significant attractions, and exceptional educational institutions, making it attractive for families.
Every region in Maryland is capable of being termed a desirable home, from the stunning peaks of the western mountains to the scenic beauty of the Chesapeake Bay area, which features some of the cleanest and most appealing beaches in the country.
If you are planning to settle in Maryland or relocate within the state, consider the following 15 prime locations that offer an exceptional living experience.
1. Columbia
Regarded as one of Maryland’s premier communities, Columbia is recognized as the sixth most desirable area according to Money Magazine. It has emerged as a leading neighborhood for aspects such as safety, economic development, and activity offerings!
In fact, Niche.com designated it the fourth best place to live in America in 2017 and the third best location for raising a family.
Residents of Columbia have easy access to shopping, educational institutions, and recreational parks. A walk through Columbia reveals well-placed sidewalks throughout the area, facilitating convenient bike commutes to schools and workplaces.
Entertainment & Activities
Apart from its flourishing residential locales, Columbia offers prime entertainment options for all ages! Whether you are out with family or hosting a business associate, various entertainment venues are available in Destination Downtown Columbia.
During the summer, Downtown Columbia comes alive with activities such as outdoor concerts, fitness classes, cinema visits, hiking trails, and delightful dining experiences.
- Merriweather Post Pavilion: Regional music venue
- Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods: Arts and cultural park
- LakeFest: Festival celebrating arts
- The Mall in Columbia: Shopping center featuring over 200 stores
- Reckless Shepherd Brewpub: Restaurant/brewpub offering live music
- Robinson Nature Center: Nature education facility
- Blandair Regional Park: Playgrounds and sports fields
2. North Potomac
For those seeking a small yet vibrant suburb, North Potomac is an ideal choice. Named after the nearby Potomac River, it has become the sixth wealthiest suburb in the United States.
In 2023, Niche rated North Potomac as the second-best place to live in Maryland, slipping just one position since 2017.
This family-oriented suburb features numerous activities, exceptional public schools, outdoor recreation, and convenient commuting options.
Residents can enjoy a wide array of dining establishments, coffee shops, and natural parks. If contemplating relocation with family, you will be pleased to discover that North Potomac’s public schools boast an A+ rating, addressing educational concerns effectively.
Entertainment & Activities
Noteworthy activities and attractions in or near North Potomac include:
- Great Falls: Natural landmark
- Glenstone Museum: Center for arts and culture
- O’Donnell’s Market: Family-operated restaurant
- Billy Goat Trail: Scenic hiking trail
- Founding Farmers: Farm-to-table dining experience
- Falls Road Golf Course: Premier golfing location
- Olmsted Island: Wildlife attraction
3. Bethesda
Located in close proximity to the nation’s capital, Bethesda is a dynamic urban suburb filled with diverse dining options, retail shops, and cultural venues. Niche ranks Bethesda as the fifth best place to live in Maryland for the year 2023.
This community is known for its high educational attainment, with public schools achieving an A+ rating, making it an excellent choice for families seeking urban living.
The area boasts a vibrant selection of ethnic restaurants, premier shopping destinations, and popular gathering spots. Bethesda’s Arts and Entertainment district is rich in artistic expression, featuring numerous galleries, artist studios, and public art installations adorning the streets.
Entertainment & Activities
With a thriving cultural scene, lively nightlife, exquisite dining options, and expansive parks, Bethesda is an appealing locale. Key attractions in Bethesda include:
- Positano Ristorante Italiano: Stand-up comedy and dining experience
- Glen Echo Park: Arts center with diverse activities
- Blues and Jazz Supper Club: Music venue
- Carderock: Scenic recreation area
- Strathmore: Prestigious concert hall
- Bethesda Row: Shopping destination
- Taste of Bethesda: Local festival
- Tastee Diner: Classic diner experience
4. Olney
In recent years, Olney has undergone significant transformation, situated just twenty-five miles north of Washington D.C.. The area is known for its enticing restaurants, parks, shopping facilities, and more, making it a highly sought-after neighborhood for families.
As part of a jobs-rich state, Olney boasts impressive employment opportunities. The local school district is highly regarded, evidenced by a 96% graduation rate at public high schools and the notable Grove Elementary, a recipient of the Blue Ribbon School for Excellence Award.
Beyond education, Olney is a culturally rich community, showcasing high diversity and a strong commitment to the arts. The region also offers ample green spaces and parks for recreation and family-friendly outings.
Entertainment & Activities
Top attractions and activities in Olney include:
- Olney Theater Center: Hosting indoor events, field trips, and classic performances
- Olney Public Library: Local library
- Brew Belly: Casual dining and bar
- Corned Beef King: Popular restaurant
- The Winery at Olney: Local winery
- Cherrywood Park: Nature park
5. Gaithersburg
Gaithersburg is noted for its diverse communities and prime location between Bohrer Park and Seneca Creek State Park. It is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts considering a move.
This family-friendly environment offers year-round entertainment through art exhibits, concerts, outdoor activities, and much more. As one of the premier places to reside in Maryland, Gaithersburg consistently presents engaging weekend opportunities.
Entertainment & Activities
Attractions in Gaithersburg cater to individuals of all ages and include:
- Blackrock Center for the Arts: Performing arts venue
- Bohrer Park: Community park
- Butler’s Orchard: Farm and market
- Seneca Stream Valley Park: Nature area
- Hunt View Riding Academy: Equitation school
- Tactical Laser Tag: Laser tag facility
6. Urbana
Urbana, located in Frederick County, ranks among the premier locations to live in Maryland. With a rich historical backdrop and evolving architecture, the town presents an eclectically appealing community.
Upon entering this beautiful area, you will discover the Villages of Urbana, which feature a variety of housing types suitable for families contemplating a quiet lifestyle.
With its intimate community ambiance, outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the recreational options available. Furthermore, Urbana prides itself on having some of the finest educational institutions along the Potomac River, making it an exemplary place to live.
Entertainment & Activities
While Urbane is a smaller town with limited local attractions, nearby options abound, offering additional entertainment within a short drive.
- Catoctin Mountains: Scenic mountain range
- Cunningham Falls State Park: Nature park
- Downtown Frederick: Shops and eateries
- Dunkin Coffee Roasters: Popular coffee house
- Weinberg Center for the Arts: Venue for performing arts
- Jojo’s Restaurant and Tap House: Local taphouse
7. Travilah
Situated just outside of Potomac, Travilah is frequently recognized as one of the elite places to live in Maryland. However, securing a residence here requires substantial financial resources as this suburb is one of the most expensive in the state.
The steep property prices indicate its appeal to affluent professionals, including medical practitioners and legal experts.
Entertainment & Activities
Though the community may not feature a multitude of local activities, several nearby attractions render it an excellent choice for families.
- Greenbriar Local Park: Playground and recreational area
- Glenstone Museum: Notable art museum
- Monster Mini Golf: Kid-friendly golfing experience
- ZavaZone: Trampoline arena
8. Rockville
If Travilah exceeds your budget but you are still seeking a desirable place to establish your home, Rockville serves as an excellent option. Located just 15 miles from Bethesda, this town excels in various aspects.
Its public schools are venerated as some of the finest in Maryland, the crime rate is notably low, the nightlife is vibrant (making it a preferred suburb for millennials), and the overall quality of life ranks exceptionally high.
Entertainment & Activities
For families considering Rockville as their residence, there are myriad activities to explore beyond traditional shopping and apartments. Within Rockville, the following attractions await:
- World of Beer: Brewery experience
- Lake Needwood: Nature park
- Croydon Creek: Nature center offering education
- Rockville Town Square: Shopping and dining hub
- Color Me Mine: DIY ceramic studio
- Dawson’s Market: Popular eatery
- Earth Treks: Rock climbing facility
- Japong Bakery: Renowned Japanese bakery
- Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park: Kid-friendly adventure park
- Rockville Little Theatre: Local theatre performances
9. Havre de Grace
Fans of the series may recognize Havre de Grace from an episode of the acclaimed show Boardwalk Empire, which concluded on a poignant note.
However, there exists a community in Maryland with the same name, found in Baltimore, the state’s largest city, within Harford County.
Its location along Chesapeake Bay attracts numerous tourists annually, with notable attractions including the historic Skipjack Martha Lewis, which played a significant role in the Chesapeake Bay oyster fisheries and is one of the last operational dredge boats.
This coastal suburb also appeals to many due to its relatively low cost of living, an anomaly for this affluent state. Yet, this does not compromise the quality of life.
Entertainment & Activities
With various waterfront activities and delicious seafood options, Havre De Grace offers a warm welcome to families moving into the area. Top attractions include:
- Chesapeake Excursion: Sailing lessons
- Havre De Grace Maritime Museum: Maritime-focused museum
- Bulle Rock: Golfing facility
- Havre De Grace Promenade: Shopping and dining destination
- Pirate Fest Weekend: Community festival
10. Ellicott City
Ellicott City is another appealing suburb of Baltimore that radiates charm and character, making it no surprise that Niche ranks it among the top places to live in Maryland.
Factors such as education, low crime rates, diversity, fitness opportunities, outdoor activities, and lively nightlife contribute to its desirability.
In Ellicott City, residents can peruse over 70 boutiques and galleries while enjoying a diverse dining experience. With ample activities available, Ellicott City certainly provides a fulfilling living environment.
Entertainment & Activities
Residents are encouraged to explore local shops, historic landmarks, exquisite dining options, and hidden gems in this picturesque town. Notable attractions in Ellicott City include:
- Patapsco State Park: Nature park offering outdoor adventures
- Historic Ellicott City: Shopping and unique boutiques
- B&O Ellicott City Station Museum: Railway history museum
- Little Market Café: Dining establishment
11. Chevy Chase
Next on our list of the best places to reside in Maryland is Chevy Chase, a small community situated in Montgomery County.
Despite its limited size, Chevy Chase is known for its welcoming atmosphere, offering various amenities within close proximity such as shopping centers, excellent dining options, cinemas, museums, and natural parks.
Residents enjoy access to top-quality schools, reflecting the high living standards, though they come with a price— housing costs are quite steep, with median home values nearing one million, which benefits established homeowners.
Entertainment & Activities
Within this small town, visitors and residents can explore several attractions, including theatres, art galleries, and shopping options. Popular activities in Chevy Chase consist of:
- Woodland Nature Sanctuary: Serene nature park
- Clyde’s: Casual dining destination
- Meadowbrook Park: Scenic nature area
- Merritt Gallery: Art gallery showcasing local talent
- Wisconsin Place: Shopping retail space
- The Capital Grille: Upscale dining option
- The Collection: High-end boutiques
12. South Kensington
South Kensington has received significant acclaim, frequently appearing in top-ranked lists of places to reside, including CNN Money’s. AreaVibes.com has also designated it as the most livable area in Maryland, and rightly so.
The locality benefits from plentiful outdoor activities, boasting six nearby parks and a variety of shopping and dining options.
Parents will value the high-performing schools, which consistently produce talented graduates, and residents benefit from solid employment prospects that elevate household income levels.
Entertainment & Activities
This charming town offers many activities for families, including visits to local shops and parks. Some highlights include:
- Clum-Kennedy Park: Nature park area
- Howard Avenue Park: Community nature spot
- Farmer’s Market: Local produce market
- Antique Row: Shopping district
- Potomac Sweets: Dining location
- Noyes Library: Local library
13. Towson
Towson, situated in Baltimore County, lies conveniently close to the city. This area boasts public schools recognized amongst the best nationally. It encompasses Towson University, transcending the typical college town image.
Towson enriches its residents with abundant outdoor activities, diverse dining options, shopping centers, cinemas, and opportunities for hiking around Loch Raven reservoir.
Entertainment & Activities
As a quaint community, Towson allows easy access to various attractions via light rail transportation. Popular activities and destinations include:
- Cinematic Towson: Movie theatre
- Towson Town Center: Shopping mall
- Lake Roland: Nature park area
- SECU Arena: Venue for sporting events
- Towson Tavern: Dining facility
- Johnny Unitas Stadium: Venue for football games
- About Faces Day Spa & Salon: Spa services
- C&R Pub: Dining experience
14. Clarksburg
Clarksburg stands out as one of Maryland’s prime living destinations. While it boasts higher housing costs and premium rental rates, its attractive surroundings and high incomes make it appealing.
The community features a wide array of restaurants alongside essential amenities, including grocery stores and recreational centers. Several trails are available for outdoor activities.
Clarksburg embodies many positive aspects.
Entertainment & Activities
Regarded as one of the best places to live, Clarksburg offers beautiful parks and excellent hiking trails. Key activities in Clarksburg include:
- Clarksburg Village Center: Shopping venue
- Dowden’s Ordinary Special Park: Nature park
- Arora Hills: Local park.
- Ovid Hazen Wells: Recreational Park
- Froggy Hollow Trailhead: Hiking locations
- Little Bennett: Golf course
15. Burtonsville
Concluding our list is Burtonsville, a quaint town located just minutes from Washington D.C. Housing options in this area are more affordable compared to many others referenced here.
Residents cherish their town, noted for its exceptionally low crime rate—a significant factor for families seeking safety and access to quality schools.
Though small, Burtonsville prides itself on a diverse population. The community maintains a strong sense of unity, which is evident during the annual Burtonsville Day celebration honoring the town’s founder, Isaac Burton.
This event invites residents to partake in games, crafts, petting zoos, and various festivities, showcasing a remarkable sense of togetherness that persists long after the celebrations conclude.
Entertainment & Activities
In addition to being one of the top places to live in Maryland, residents can enjoy various activities familiar within Burtonsville, such as:
- Fairland: Recreational park
- Marilyn J. Praisner Library: Library facilities
- Horowitz Center: Venue for performing arts
- PLNT Burger: Dining option
- Doodlehatch: Interactive art museum
- Brookside Gardens: Nature park facility
- Spicknall’s Farm Market: Family-operated farm stand
