The best places to live in Baltimore
Finding the best areas and suburbs in Baltimore can feel overwhelming. Dubbed the ‘City of Neighbourhoods’, this East Coast city has hundreds of different areas to choose from.
New arrivals looking for a place to stay in Baltimore will have to consider several factors, the most important of which are the cost of accommodation, the area’s lifestyle offerings, its access to amenities, and proximity to the workplace. Those relocating to Baltimore with children will, of course, have the additional priority of finding a suitable home in a family-friendly area close to good schools.
Thankfully, most new arrivals report that Baltimoreans are friendly, helpful, and welcoming. So, regardless of the neighbourhood, Charm City’s sense of community should help newcomers settle into Baltimore life pretty quickly.
Here is a general overview of some of the most popular areas and suburbs in Baltimore for new arrivals and expats.
City living in Baltimore
City living in Baltimore appeals to dynamic young people looking to start a career. While other nearby cities have priced out many of those without existing capital, Baltimore offers these entrepreneurial types the opportunity to establish themselves and launch their careers without compromising on quality of life. As Baltimore’s cost of living is quite reasonable, young professionals without dependants tend to have a sizeable disposable income.
Those who value their time and who want to be close to lifestyle offerings opt to live as close to downtown Baltimore as possible. Rents in sought-after areas close to the city centre are naturally higher as a result of demand. Properties also tend to be on the small side. That said, if location is a priority, these are some of the recommended neighbourhoods that offer new arrivals the best in city living.
Mount Vernon
Located just north of downtown Baltimore, Mount Vernon is one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods and has been designated a cultural district. Residents and visitors alike will find plenty to see and do here. Although historical sights abound in this neighbourhood, the original Washington Monument is the focal point of Mount Vernon.
Being so close to the centre of town means that getting around is easy. Mount Vernon is well served by all modes of public transport, including major bus routes, light rail, metro, and the Charm City Circulator. Residents of Mount Vernon have an array of nightlife offerings on their doorstep, with numerous restaurants, cafés, and bars dotted around the neighbourhood.
Locust Point
Home of the famous Fort McHenry, Locust Point has a rich history. Over the years, it has been home to large immigrant communities from Ireland, Italy, and Poland. The respective legacies of these groups are visible throughout the area to this day. More recently, the neighbourhood has undergone gradual gentrification, which has brought with it a slew of new offerings.
The area boasts plenty of bars, restaurants, and coffee shops that cater to its relatively young population. Rental prices in the area are high by Baltimore standards, and properties are comparatively small, but it’s a great spot for those looking for a central location close to all the action.
Federal Hill
Centrally located on the South Baltimore Peninsula, Federal Hill is named after the distinctive hill that can easily be spotted from all over the Inner Harbor area. Federal Hill residents are just a stone’s throw from most of Baltimore’s best attractions. The Cross Street Market, full of shops, restaurants, and bars, is a huge social hub for the area. The type of accommodation found here will primarily be apartment or condo living options popular with young urban dwellers. Rents are high due to the prime central location.
Hampden
Hipsters looking for a place to call home should look no further than Hampden. This artsy neighbourhood is situated in North Baltimore and offers a community feel within 15 minutes of key amenities such as public transport links, restaurants, bars, and independent shops. Property prices here reflect its popularity, although the market has settled somewhat after years of steady growth.
Things to See and Do in Baltimore
Public Transport in Baltimore
Cost of Living in Baltimore
Family-friendly suburbs of Baltimore
Family-friendly suburbs of Baltimore attract prospective Baltimoreans who value quality of life for their children. The cost of living in Baltimore is more favourable than in other East Coast cities such as Boston, Washington, DC, and New York, and it also boasts a range of excellent public schooling options. Properties, especially in outlying suburbs, tend to be reasonably priced and spacious. Below are some popular family-friendly neighbourhoods in Baltimore worth considering for those relocating to the Charm City with kids in tow.
Ellicott City
Ellicott City is a well-established suburb of Baltimore. It is a particularly popular choice for families thanks to its excellent public schools. Most residents in Ellicott City own their homes, and it’s a great spot for those who’ve decided to settle down in Baltimore. The historic centre of the area has a quaint old-town feel, which provides a lovely respite from the bustle of urban life. Ellicott City’s location, with easy access to Route 40, I-70, and I-695, makes getting around a breeze. Plus, living close to the natural beauty of Patapsco Valley State Park provides ample opportunities to spend time outdoors.
Pikesville
Pikesville has historically been home to a sizeable Orthodox Jewish community, but the area has become more diverse over the years. The neighbourhood’s popularity is often down to its good schooling options and access to transport – the Baltimore subway runs through Pikesville, which makes commuting into the city centre easy and straightforward.
Fulton
This close-knit suburb of Baltimore is another exceptional option for newcomers moving to Baltimore with children. Anchored by the Maple Lawn development, Fulton offers a planned community atmosphere with tree-lined streets and town centre amenities. Crime is low, and it’s considered extremely safe. There are plenty of green spaces and outdoor playgrounds for families to enjoy. Public schools in Fulton are highly rated, a major drawcard for residents. Those who love being outdoors will appreciate being close to the Patuxent River, which is a great spot for hiking, fishing, and boating.