Top 15 Best Places to Live in Maryland 2023

2025-06-01

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Maryland’s Best Places to Live, According to U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report has recently unveiled its coveted “Best Places to Live” list, highlighting 15 cities across Maryland that have made the cut. Among these, two cities even managed to break into the top 25 of the nationwide rankings. Whether you’re considering a move or just curious about what Maryland has to offer, this list provides valuable insights into some of the state’s most appealing locations.

Understanding the Rankings

This annual list is carefully curated, evaluating 250 major cities across the United States. U.S. News & World Report employs a comprehensive methodology that includes data sourced from Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS) and its own internal resources. The core database utilized by AGS pulls information from both private and government sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, Department of Commerce, and the Bureau for Economic Analysis. Such thorough research ensures that readers can make informed decisions about where to settle down.

Maryland’s Top 15 Cities

Let’s dive into the specific Maryland cities that have earned a spot on this prestigious list.

15. Baltimore (City of Baltimore)

Population: 568,184
Average Commute: 23 minutes
Median Home Value: $210,666
Median Monthly Rent: $1,045
Median Household Income: $58,427

Famous for its rich history and vibrant culture, Baltimore is a city with a diverse population and plenty of attractions ranging from the National Aquarium to historic neighborhoods.

14. Salisbury (Wicomico County)

Population: 33,776
Average Commute: 16 minutes
Median Home Value: $232,927
Median Monthly Rent: $963
Median Household Income: $57,514

This quaint city is known for its charming downtown area and proximity to the Eastern Shore’s beautiful beaches, making it perfect for those who appreciate a slightly slower pace of life.

13. Lexington Park (St. Mary’s County)

Population: 13,318
Average Commute: 17 minutes
Median Home Value: $286,819
Median Monthly Rent: $1,450
Median Household Income: $85,576

Home to the Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Lexington Park offers a blend of military and civilian life, with access to recreational activities on the water.

12. Hyattsville (Prince George’s County)

Population: 23,087
Average Commute: 32 minutes
Median Home Value: $440,153
Median Monthly Rent: $1,516
Median Household Income: $86,412

Hyattsville is celebrated for its artistic vibe and community spirit, with numerous galleries and cultural events dotting the calendar.

11. Silver Spring (Montgomery County)

Population: 81,438
Average Commute: 31 minutes
Median Home Value: $628,740
Median Monthly Rent: $1,678
Median Household Income: $101,729

Conveniently located near Washington, D.C., Silver Spring is a bustling urban area that offers ample dining and entertainment options.

10. Frederick (Frederick County)

Population: 86,179
Average Commute: 21 minutes
Median Home Value: $399,885
Median Monthly Rent: $1,503
Median Household Income: $94,755

Frederick’s rich history, scenic landscapes, and lively downtown make it a desirable location for families and young professionals alike.

9. Hagerstown (Washington County)

Population: 43,341
Average Commute: 18 minutes
Median Home Value: $220,076
Median Monthly Rent: $793
Median Household Income: $51,624

Known for its affordability, Hagerstown offers a balance of small-town charm and accessibility to larger metropolitan areas.

8. Gaithersburg (Montgomery County)

Population: 69,711
Average Commute: 25 minutes
Median Home Value: $512,970
Median Monthly Rent: $1,710
Median Household Income: $111,060

Gaithersburg boasts rich diversity with excellent schools, parks, and a variety of shopping and dining options, making it a well-rounded place to live.

7. Germantown (Montgomery County)

Population: 89,168
Average Commute: 29 minutes
Median Home Value: $427,179
Median Monthly Rent: $1,673
Median Household Income: $113,878

Germantown combines suburban living with urban conveniences, featuring a range of recreational facilities and community programs.

6. Bowie (Prince George’s County)

Population: 53,472
Average Commute: 32 minutes
Median Home Value: $426,458
Median Monthly Rent: $1,743
Median Household Income: $139,290

Bowie stands out with its extensive park system, top-rated schools, and family-friendly atmosphere.

5. Towson (Baltimore County)

Population: 61,930
Average Commute: 22 minutes
Median Home Value: $399,216
Median Monthly Rent: $1,354
Median Household Income: $93,832

Towson is home to several colleges and universities, fostering a youthful energy and providing access to numerous educational and cultural resources.

4. Columbia (Howard County)

Population: 105,687
Average Commute: 24 minutes
Median Home Value: $495,708
Median Monthly Rent: $1,772
Median Household Income: $132,563

Renowned for its planned community design, Columbia offers a harmonious blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

3. Rockville (Montgomery County)

Population: 63,437
Average Commute: 28 minutes
Median Home Value: $636,683
Median Monthly Rent: $1,849
Median Household Income: $127,516

As the county seat of Montgomery County, Rockville provides residents with a bustling city center and plenty of community events throughout the year.

2. Bethesda (Montgomery County)

Population: 71,865
Average Commute: 28 minutes
Median Home Value: $1,004,244
Median Monthly Rent: $1,946
Median Household Income: $189,538

Bethesda is synonymous with affluence and urban sophistication, featuring a lively arts scene and some of the best dining in the state.

1. Ellicott City (Howard County)

Average Commute: 25 minutes
Median Home Value: $627,797
Median Monthly Rent: $1,775
Median Household Income: $163,286

Topping the list is Ellicott City, known for its historic charm and vibrant community life, making it a prime location for professionals and families alike.

Exploring Maryland’s Offerings

Maryland’s cities present an enticing mix of urban amenities and suburban comfort, appealing to a diverse range of residents. From the cultural richness of Baltimore to the family-friendly atmosphere of Bowie, each city brings something unique to the table. With the U.S. News rankings as a guide, potential residents can choose their next home with confidence. Whether you’re drawn to the historical significance of Ellicott City or the vibrant culture of Bethesda, Maryland offers something for everyone.