Written by Malcolm Lawson
Okay, get ready because I’m super excited about this article and discussing all the benefits of living in Frederick, Maryland. The homes in Frederick, Maryland, consist of a mix of older Art Deco and Colonials to newer Cape Cod and Coastal designs. The neighborhoods are as varied as the architectural styles, with communities offering playgrounds, dog parks, pools, and more. Some popular neighborhoods include Baker Park, East Church, Bartonsville, and Spring Ridge.
I love working with buyers and sellers living in Frederick, Maryland. I always come away from the experience with new relationships and a deeper appreciation for this lovely community.
One thing that makes living in Frederick, Maryland, appealing is its location: it is sixty-six minutes from Washington, D.C., and fifty-seven minutes from Baltimore. Additionally, residents enjoy a tranquil setting surrounded by mountain views and sprawling orchards. Frederick is also a thriving community and home to many renowned wineries. As a result, the town has a robust tourism sector. Other industry sectors include food distribution and medical and biomedical research. Several well-known employers like Frederick National Laboratory/Leidos Biomedical Research, AstraZeneca, and Aldi Distribution Center call Federick home.
If you are curious about what it is like living in Frederick, Maryland, residents enjoy a small-town environment with big-city amenities. With a population of 78,000, Frederick is the second-largest incorporated city in Maryland.
Outdoor recreation is big in Frederick. Visitors and residents can partake in the area’s abundant outdoor recreational opportunities. Locals love exploring Catoctin Mountain Park. Additionally, Cunningham Falls State Park and Gambrill State Park are some of the best outdoor locations in Maryland.
Catoctin Mountain Park near Frederick, Maryland
Cost of Living in Frederick, Maryland
If you are considering a move to Frederick, the cost of living is an important factor to consider. The good news is the cost of living in Frederick, Maryland overall is 19% higher than the national average, according to Areavibes.com. Utility costs and the costs of goods and services are 9% higher than the national average. The median sales price of a home in Frederick, Maryland, as of March 2024 is $440,000. Of course, you can find more affordable properties as well as multi-million homes. The demand for housing is high in Frederick, and most homes sell in less than 30 days.
If you’re not ready to buy a home in Frederick, renting a two-bedroom apartment costs around $1,800 a month, which is not bad overall considering the price of rentals in most areas in Maryland. Renting a three-bedroom home costs around $2,300, which is on par with most of the state.
The median household income in Frederick, Maryland, is $115,000. Statistics show that an annual income of approximately $90,000 is reasonable to live comfortably in Frederick, Maryland.
While housing and utility expenses may be somewhat higher than the national average, residents feel the higher costs are worth the benefits of living in Frederick, Maryland.
Schools in Frederick, Maryland
For those with school-age children, you will be happy to learn that Frederick, Maryland, takes pride in its commitment to providing quality education to its residents. The Frederick County Public School system oversees a network of elementary, middle, and high schools. Frederick County Public Schools is known for its dedicated staff. Among the notable institutions is Oakdale High School. The school is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and state-of-the-art facilities. There are several award-winning elementary schools in Frederick, including Sugarloaf Elementary and Centerville Elementary. I would suggest visiting the schools in Frederick. You will find the staff at each school welcoming, and it’s easy to schedule a tour and meet some of the teachers.
Additionally, Frederick is home to many private schools, including the esteemed Saint John’s Catholic Prep. Another benefit of the education system in Frederick is that college-bound children don’t have to go far. The city is close to several higher learning institutions, like Hood College, where students can pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees.
You can find a complete list of schools and their rankings at greatschools.org.
Example of Hood College’s beautiful architecture.
Best Restaurants in Federick, Maryland
Frederick, Maryland, is a haven for food lovers, and if you’re like me, I love visiting new restaurants and checking out the menu items. For starters, if you like fine dining, check out The Tasting Room. The Tasting Room offers a full menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. The filet mignon and sea scallops are some of the best I’ve had anywhere!
If you are looking for a culinary journey through the Mediterranean, Isabella’s Taverna & Tapas Bar is the place to dine. What’s unique about Isabella’s is its array of Spanish-inspired small plates. Plus, you can grab breakfast here or enjoy happy hour. Isabella’s is an all-around great place to eat.
Another great place that locals love is The Orchard Restaurant. Once you eat here, you will understand why it’s a local favorite; everything they serve is fresh and homemade, and you can taste the difference. There are plenty of vegan offerings, and no one goes away hungry.
Things to Do in Frederick, Maryland
Although Frederick is a smaller community, there are plenty of things to do in Frederick, Maryland. Residents living in Frederick, Maryland, have an array of attractions and activities nearby. History buffs can step back in time with a visit to the Monocacy National Battlefield. Another option is exploring the structures of the National Museum of Civil War Medicine.
If you are into art, the city offers a vibrant cultural scene. You can visit galleries showcasing everything from contemporary works to local masterpieces. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking the scenic trails at Cunningham Falls State Park or kayaking along the Monocacy River.
If you love eating out, Frederick has a wide range of dining choices. Options include everything from farm-to-table restaurants to wineries. For those seeking a dose of adrenaline, the city offers activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, and even hot-air balloon rides. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or searching for good food, Frederick, Maryland, promises an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Monocacy National Battlefield in Frederick, Maryland
Shopping in Frederick, Maryland
When I work with folks relocating, one of the first questions they ask is, “What is the shopping like in Frederick, Maryland?” I’ve had to research this topic, as I’m the kind of guy who likes to order everything on Amazon. Anyway, I’m happy to share that Frederick is a premier shopping destination. Frederick is home to a 50-block historic district with hundreds of unique boutiques and specialty shops.
You will find excellent places like the Common Co-op Marketplace. The Common Co-op offers the freshest, most nutritious whole foods in Frederick County. Other venues like Colonial Jewelers is a locally-owned shop offering unique fine jewelry. Living in Frederick, Maryland, gives you easy access to many family-owned specialty shops and art galleries. Furthermore, residents have access to shopping malls like Frederick Crossing. Frederick Crossing is home to big-name stores like Best Buy and Kohl’s. You don’t have to drive far to find everything you need for daily goods and services or for all the items you might have on a holiday shopping list.
Moving to Frederick, Maryland
Living in Frederick, Maryland, offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city’s historic downtown exudes charm with its quaint architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Frederick’s parks and outdoor spaces provide endless opportunities for exploration and recreation. Frederick’s proximity to Baltimore and Washington, D.C., makes it easy to find job opportunities. If you are considering moving to Frederick, Maryland, I would love to show you around; give me a call.
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