Living in Riverside, Maryland
Riverside, Maryland, is a small, tight-knit community located in Harford County, in the northeastern part of the state. It’s a peaceful, suburban area that provides a balance between serene living and convenient access to nearby cities. Being close to the
Bush River and other waterways, Riverside offers a scenic environment, perfect for those who love the outdoors. With its proximity to Aberdeen and Bel Air, Riverside residents can enjoy a quiet lifestyle without being too far from major amenities.
If you’re thinking about moving to Riverside, Maryland, you’ll find it a great spot with lots of green space and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Cost of Living in Riverside, Maryland
The cost of living in Riverside is generally lower than some of the more urban areas in Maryland, though still higher than the national average. Buying a home in Riverside can be affordable compared to larger cities like Baltimore, with the average home price around $300,000. This is lower than Maryland’s statewide median home price of approximately $380,000. Renting a home in Riverside is also reasonable, with an average rent for a two-bedroom apartment hovering around $1,500 per month.
Utilities such as water and electricity are generally in line with national averages. For example, residents can expect to pay around $150 monthly for electricity and $60 for water. High-speed internet costs typically run around $70 per month. With the average household income in Riverside being around $85,000, many residents find it manageable to live comfortably here, especially when compared to more expensive parts of Maryland.
Top Things To Do in Riverside, Maryland
Riverside may be a smaller community, but there’s no shortage of things to do in and around the area. From historical sites to nearby shopping and dining, residents have plenty of entertainment options.
One of the most popular attractions near Riverside is Ripken Stadium, home to the Aberdeen IronBirds, a minor league baseball team. The stadium is a must-visit for sports fans and offers an exciting game-day experience. A reviewer mentioned, “Great atmosphere, and the stadium is well-maintained. Perfect for a family outing.”
Another favorite is Havre de Grace Maritime Museum, located just a short drive from Riverside. This museum offers exhibits on the history of the Chesapeake Bay and local maritime culture. One visitor said, “This is a hidden gem! So much to learn about the rich history of the area.”
For shopping and dining, head to Harford Mall in nearby Bel Air. With a variety of stores and eateries, it’s a convenient place for Riverside residents to shop for essentials or enjoy a nice meal out. One local review mentioned, “Always clean, and the variety of stores is great for a small mall.”
Top Parks in Riverside, Maryland
Riverside is surrounded by beautiful parks that make it easy to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you like hiking, fishing, or just relaxing in nature, there are plenty of options nearby.
Flying Point Park is one of the highest-rated parks in the area. It offers stunning views of the Bush River and provides picnic areas, fishing piers, and boat ramps. Reviewers praise the park for its peaceful atmosphere, with one stating, “A beautiful spot to relax and watch the boats go by.”
Rockfield Park in Bel Air is another favorite, featuring trails, playgrounds, and open spaces. It’s a perfect destination for walking or enjoying some time outdoors. One user commented, “Great park with plenty of space for outdoor activities.”
Lastly, Susquehanna State Park, a short drive from Riverside, is known for its lush forests and scenic river views. It’s a great spot for hiking, picnicking, or spending a day exploring nature. One reviewer said, “The trails are fantastic, and the views of the river are breathtaking.”
Top Restaurants in Riverside, Maryland
When it comes to dining, Riverside and the surrounding area offer a variety of great options, ranging from casual spots to more upscale eateries. There’s something for every palate.
Box Hill Pizzeria, located nearby in Abingdon, is known for its famous crab cakes and pizza. Visitors rave about the food, with one stating, “Best crab cakes in the state, hands down. Always fresh and delicious.”
For a more upscale dining experience, head to The Promenade Grille in Havre de Grace. Known for its seafood and waterfront views, it’s a perfect spot for a date night or special occasion. A reviewer said, “The food is excellent, and you can’t beat the view of the water.”
For something more casual, Vagabond Sandwich Company in Bel Air is a popular spot for creative sandwiches and wraps. One review raves, “Unique and delicious sandwiches, great for a quick bite!”
Riverside, Maryland’s Distance to Other Major Cities
- Baltimore, MD
- Distance: 27 miles
- Time: Approximately 40 minutes by car
- Key Amenities: Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), National Aquarium, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and numerous museums and cultural attractions.
- Washington, D.C.
- Distance: 65 miles
- Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
- Key Amenities: Smithsonian Museums, National Mall, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), and notable hospitals such as MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.
- Philadelphia, PA
- Distance: 75 miles
- Time: Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes by car
- Key Amenities: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, and the University of Pennsylvania.
Top Rated Schools in Riverside, Maryland
Schools are an important factor when buying a home in Riverside, Maryland. The local schools are part of the Harford County Public Schools system, which is known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular opportunities.
Top High Schools in Riverside
- Bel Air High School is highly rated for its academic offerings and extracurricular activities. Students benefit from advanced placement courses and a wide range of clubs and sports programs. Learn more about
- C. Milton Wright High School is another excellent option, known for its strong music and arts programs, as well as its athletics. Learn more about
Top Middle Schools in Riverside
- Southampton Middle School is well-regarded for its diverse academic offerings and supportive environment. The school offers various clubs and a solid academic foundation.
- Aberdeen Middle School is another strong option, offering a comprehensive curriculum and a variety of extracurriculars.
Top Elementary Schools in Riverside
- Church Creek Elementary School receives high marks for its dedicated teachers and focus on student growth.
- William Paca/Old Post Road Elementary School is another excellent choice, known for its community involvement and supportive staff.
Top Employers in Riverside, Maryland
Riverside has access to several large employers in Harford County, providing residents with a range of job opportunities.
Aberdeen Proving Ground, a major U.S. Army facility, is the largest employer in the area. It offers positions in research, engineering, and administration. Salaries vary widely, but many technical positions offer $70,000 to $100,000 annually.
Upper Chesapeake Health, a healthcare provider, employs many in the region, particularly in nursing, administration, and support roles. Salaries for registered nurses range from $60,000 to $90,000 per year.
W.L. Gore & Associates, located in nearby Elkton, is known for its innovation in manufacturing, offering roles in engineering, production, and research. Salaries for engineers start at $80,000 and up.
Top Neighborhoods in Riverside, Maryland
Riverside offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm and amenities, making it easy to find the right place to call home.
Riverside itself is one of the largest and most established neighborhoods. It’s a peaceful, suburban area with easy access to parks and shopping centers. Homes here are typically priced between $250,000 and $350,000.
Belcamp is another popular neighborhood, located just a few minutes away from Riverside. It offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, with prices starting around $200,000. It’s also close to the Bush River for those who enjoy water activities.
Box Hill is located nearby and offers a mix of newer homes and established residences. It has a range of amenities, including community pools and walking trails, with homes typically priced between $300,000 and $400,000.
FAQ About Living in Riverside, Maryland
Q: Where is the nicest place to live in Riverside, Maryland?
A: The Riverside neighborhood itself is one of the nicest places to live, offering suburban charm and proximity to local amenities like parks and shopping centers.
Q: Is Riverside, Maryland an expensive place to live?
A: Riverside is relatively affordable compared to other areas in Maryland, with the cost of buying a home around $300,000, which is lower than the state average.
Q: Is the population growing in Riverside, Maryland?
A: Yes, Riverside and the surrounding areas in Harford County have seen steady population growth as more people move for its affordability and convenient location.
Q: What is a good salary to live comfortably in Riverside, Maryland?
A: A salary of around $85,000 would allow you to live comfortably in Riverside, considering the cost of housing and typical living expenses.
Q: Is Riverside, Maryland a good place to retire?
A: Yes, Riverside offers a quiet and peaceful environment, making it an attractive place to retire, especially with its proximity to natural spaces and local amenities.
