Written by Malcolm Lawson
Situated along the northern border of Washington, D.C., Silver Spring, Maryland, offers an exceptional blend of charm and urban vitality. With a population of 81,015 and a proximity less than 30 minutes from Washington, D.C., this delightful city is the fifth most populous in Maryland. Residents living in Silver Spring, Maryland, enjoy a vibrant cultural and artistic scene. I love spending the weekend in Silver Spring. There is always so much going on. The vibe is high energy, and Silver Spring is home to a dynamic downtown area with over 150 restaurants, so there are plenty of eateries to explore! Silver Spring is a destination for all! Whether you’re planning a family outing, a weekend with friends, or a romantic getaway. The city’s array of entertainment options, from live performance theaters to art galleries, ensures there is always something to do.
As one of Montgomery County’s most walkable cities, getting around is easy. The Red Line metro stops and extensive bus routes provide effortless commuting options to the heart of D.C. and surrounding areas. The highly walkable environment, complemented by many bike paths and walking trails, enhances the quality of life for those living in Silver Spring, Maryland. Residents enjoy residing in the cultural hub of Montgomery County, as evidenced by all the colorful murals and beautiful parks; it’s easy to understand why many love calling Silver Spring home.
Silver Spring Murals Blair Mural Festival
Additionally, Silver Spring offers a wide range of accommodations for those looking for a not-so-far-away destination. Residents and guests can choose anything from a cozy bed and breakfast inn to an upscale hotel.
One of the many benefits of living in Silver Spring, Maryland, is the selection of outstanding neighborhoods. Some of the best places to live in Silver Spring, Maryland, include East Silver Spring, Montgomery Knolls, and New Hampshire Estates. Other popular areas include Clifton Park Village and Downtown Silver Spring. Whenever I work with sellers from Silver Spring, they consistently mention how Silver Spring, Maryland, is a nice place to live. They often declare that they will miss the community spirit and beautiful surroundings.
Homes for sale in Silver Spring, Maryland, involve various architectural and lifestyle choices. I love showing homes in Silver Spring. I get to see the latest and greatest in home designs, from chic studio apartments to stately, historic homes in areas like Woodside Park.
Colonial-style homes in Woodside Park
Cost of Living in Silver Spring, Maryland
As one might expect, living less than 30 minutes from Washington, D.C., comes with a price. The median home price in Silver Spring, Maryland, is approximately $695,000. Of course, the median home price and cost of goods and services change over time. The average cost of utilities runs about 10% higher than the national average, and groceries run about 9% higher than the national average. If you are not ready to buy a home in Silver Spring, renting a studio costs around $1,700. A one-bedroom apartment costs around $2,000, and a two-bedroom apartment costs around $2,400. The median household income in Silver Spring is approximately $95,213. The biggest challenge for most folks living in Silver Spring, Maryland, is the cost of housing and childcare.
Parks in Silver Spring, Maryland
Living in Silver Spring, Maryland, has many benefits. When working with folks here, I often ask what they love the most about the city, and the consensus is how they love the lush greenery and city parks. Neighborhood parks like Dale Drive Neighborhood Park are a classic example of the quality of parks. The park’s playground equipment is well-maintained. Guests enjoy two tennis courts, a picnic area, and the Sligo Creek hiker/biker trail, which runs through the park.
Another local favorite is Woodside Urban Park. The park offers plenty of open green spaces, wooded areas, a water fountain, a playground, a skate park, and sports courts. There are so many parks in Silver Spring that it’s too much to cover in this article, but you can explore all your options on the Montgomery County Parks & Recreation website, which has a complete list of Montgomery County parks.
Woodside Urban Park in Silver Spring, Maryland
Schools in Silver Spring, Maryland
Montgomery County Public Schools has an outstanding reputation. For instance, check out the reviews on Niche.com regarding James Hubert Blake High School. The school consistently gets high marks from students, teachers, and parents.
Residents living in Silver Spring, Maryland, have a wide selection of public and private schools. Each school offers quality education and dedicated staff. The Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS ) embraces diversity. I often hear from both buyers and sellers living in Silver Spring, Maryland, how much they appreciate the quality education their children receive.
For a complete list and rankings of Silver Spring, Maryland schools, visit greatschools.org.
Best Restaurants in Silver Spring, Maryland
One of the best things about living in Silver Spring, Maryland, is easy access to some of the best restaurants in Maryland. For example, Zinnia, located at 9201 Colesville Rd, is a fantastic place offering a resort-like setting complete with botanical gardens and several dining options, from the restaurant to the cafe and the tavern. I love this place because the atmosphere is inviting, the food is out-of-this-world, and the service is always excellent. Plan to stay awhile; there is much to see and experience at Zinnia’s!
Another great place to eat and enjoy an evening out is All Set Restaurant & Bar. A friend introduced me to this place, and I love it! The atmosphere is fun, the service is timely and friendly, and you will find some unique entrees here. I tend to order the same thing, but All Set Restaurant & Bar’s menu is enticing. So, I encourage those who hesitate to try something new to expand their culinary experiences. Some great menu items include the pan-seared trout crab Meunier, the Texas Brisket, and the Fish & Chips. You are going to love All Set Restaurant & Bar.
If you want fun and a sports bar environment, check out Dog Haus Biergarten, located at 933 Ellsworth Drive in Silver Spring. The atmosphere here is lively, there are plenty of big-screen TVs, and the burgers and dogs are really good. And if you appreciate craft beer, Dog Haus serves a wide selection of premium, handcrafted beer.
Zinnia, one of the best restaurants in Silver Spring, Maryland
Things to do in Silver Spring, Maryland
Residents living in Silver Spring, Maryland, have plenty of things to do year-round. Events like the Silver Spring Blues Festival attract thousands. Other popular events include the 2nd Annual Chalk Festival, Silver Spring Holiday Crafts and Treats Fair, and more. Silver Spring residents support many arts and cultural events through several theaters, art galleries, and public squares. From farmer’s markets to car shows, you will never run out of things to do in Silver Spring.
If you are looking for popular venues, check out The Fillmore. The Fillmore is an iconic music venue with a rich history of hosting great entertainers such as Aretha Franklin, Santana, Janis Joplin, and the Grateful Dead.
The list of things to do and see in Silver Spring is extensive. Residents who enjoy golf should check out the beautiful Sligo Creek Golf Course. Other activities include ice skating, watching independent films, and visiting one of the local theater houses.
Shopping in Silver Spring, Maryland
If you are wondering about the best shopping in Silver Spring, Maryland, head to Ellsworth Place. You’ll love Ellsworth Place because it offers six stories and 350,000 square feet of retail heaven!
Other great shopping venues in Silver Spring include Downtown Silver Spring and Silver Spring Mall. One element residents living in Silver Spring, Maryland, rave about is all the shopping opportunities. Plus, there are plenty of unique boutiques and cool coffee shops. I like to explore the coffee shops around town because I meet many clients in coffee shops. Some of the best coffee houses I’ve discovered here include Bump-n Grind Coffee House, Black Lion Cafe Coffee & Pastry, and Kaldi’s Social House Silver Spring.
Moving to Silver Spring, Maryland
If you are considering moving to Silver Spring, Maryland, you’re in good company. Silver Spring is one of the most popular areas in the greater Washington, DC, area. Residents enjoy short commutes, a vibrant downtown district, and top-rated schools. The suburban vibe and beautiful surroundings make living in Silver Spring, Maryland, a good choice for many. Silver Spring offers a wide range of housing options, and I would love to show you around!
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