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City Guides
Monday, December 09, 2024

8 Great Neighborhoods to Live in Baltimore

Baltimore has over 200 neighborhoods. That’s incredible for a city of slightly over half a million residents! But what if you’re new to the Baltimore area? Exploring two hundred neighborhoods is a lot to cover when finding the right place to live in Charm City. Start your home search with a few of these excellent communities. 

For our list, we exclusively include popular neighborhoods inside the city limits. Depending on your needs, it may be worth checking out these Baltimore suburbs. 

Federal Hill

Ask someone to picture Baltimore living. The likely image includes expansive downtown Baltimore and harbor views, classic federal architecture, cobblestone streets, brick row homes, quaint shops, and patio cafes. 

That image is Federal Hill. The neighborhood name refers to its history as a defensive outpost during the War of 1812. Today, replica cannons still sit atop the hill, offering a glimpse into its past. The views from the park at the top are breathtaking. Residents can enjoy them at any time, and perhaps even from their homes, depending on the historic street they live on. 

Even if you can’t see the Harbor from your home, short walk from other top attractions. Picture yourself strolling to the Third Thursday street fairs, exploring the shops at Cross Street Market, or admiring the independent art galleries at School 33 Art Center.  And that’s not all-Federal Hill boasts three exceptional museums, including Fort McHenry. Walk to Federal Hill Park or the American Visionary Art Museum.

The fun vibes continue inside its historic buildings. Chill at sports bars playing Orioles games or quaint coffee shops, exposed brick and all. Catch a show at a 1920s theater and bar or dancy away at its nightclubs. For kids, hit the playground at the Federal Hil Park. Rash Hill Park across Key Highway has sand volleyball courts, a skate park, and other outdoor activities.

Federal Hill locals also have easier access to Baltimore’s public transit system and I-95 for personal travel. Condominiums and rowhomes dominate the real estate market.

Fells Point

Just because it’s “old” doesn’t mean it’s undesirable. The bustling shipbuilding port is one of the best places to live near the waterfront in Baltimore. Its waterfront views and access to the Inner Harbor is hard to match.

As a historic district, it has over 300 historically relevant buildings and features. Live in centuries-old row homes painted in lively colors. Wander the Belgian-block streets that make it distinct down to the historic Broadway Market. All of Fells Point feels like a step back in time.

The views hint at its higher price tag, as do all the eclectic restaurants, stores, and entertainment. Over 100 small businesses cater to every need.  The fresh Chesapeake Bay crabs on your plate likely came right off the boats you can see flitting about the harbor. And that bar you’re enjoying a cocktail at might have a fascinating Prohibition history or be the last place Edgar Allan Poe stopped in. Shop fresh produce at the weekly Farmer’s Market.

Locals have prime access to top Baltimore attractions, including the National Aquarium, the US Lightship Chesapeake, and the Maritime Park Museum. Join in the Fell’s Point Privateer Festival, or ride one of the urban Pirate ships whenever the mood strikes. Life in Fells Point is active, lively, and fun.

For outdoor activities, the Inner Harbour Promenade has a trailhead right at Fells Points. It runs seven miles with full scenic views that whole way.

Canton

Are you sensing a theme with all this Baltimore waterfront? In this case, Canton is along the Patapsco River but slightly more eastward from the Inner Harbor. That gives locals easier access to Patterson Park and all its trails. Another bonus? John Hopkins Bayview Medical Center lies a few blocks east. 

Locals like Canton’s walkability. People always seem to be out and about, especially on the nicer weather days. They’re heading to the shops on O’Donnell Street, the outdoor summer concert series, or the landmark breweries. Boston Street and Canton Square are hubs for nightlife and dining. Patterson Park or Canton Waterfront Park and their playgrounds are perfect to let the kids out–two-footed and four-footed. The eight-mile waterfront promenade is a favorite for some outdoor activities like spring picnics and running workouts.

The vibe here is still urban. Downtown attractions are a few blocks west, after all. Streets have patio dining, taverns, and relaxed restaurants. But it has more suburban touches, like free street parking or private parking pads for some homes. Slightly fewer tourists pass through, and more people own those historic brick row houses and condominiums. 

Housing here has some neat Baltimore architectural touches. For instance, you can find painted screens, a folk art tradition going back a century. Others have added colorful and unique touches like marble fronts. There’s also newer construction, mostly luxury condos. 

Canton’s crime rate in 2022 was 47.2 per 1,000 residents. That’s on the lower side for Baltimore, making it one of the safest neighborhoods in Charm City.

Mount Vernon

George Washington’s monument rises into the sky above Mount Vernon. It draws the eyes upward, but look down and around this historic neighborhood. Otherwise, you’ll miss out on all the character and fun things to do as a local. 

What locals have by living in Mount Vernon are the best of Baltimore’s cultural districts. The historic mansions are impressive. Where Gilded Age icons once lived are now art and history museums. Other buildings are famous destinations, like the Peabody Library and its six floors of books, or the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Have all the events you could want: opera, theater, art gallery nights, karaoke joints, and trivia nights at local pubs.

Four parks allow residents to walk their dogs to enjoy a springtime picnic. The parks themselves are a work of art. Admire their sculptures, fountains, and careful landscaping. Its green spaces are popular for the annual Monument Lighting and the Flower Mart. 

Walkability is off the charts here–one of the highest in Baltimore–as is its rankings for public transportation options and bicycling. Penn Station and Charles Center are just five minutes away. So even though you’re off the waterfront, it’s still central in Baltimore and well-connected to other vibrant neighborhoods.

Housing in Mount Vernon runs from Victorian row houses to new high-rise apartments and condos.  

Roland Park

Welcome home to America’s first planned suburb. Established in 1891, Roland Park has all you’d expect of suburban-style living. Find a quieter vibe, friendly neighbors, and historic charm wrapped into one place.

Walk around, and you’ll see why Roland Park is one of the top Baltimore neighborhoods. Tall trees shade streets line streets of quaint single-family homes with lush yards. The walkways lead to shopping areas with upscale grocers and modern restaurants. 

Among community perks is the Baltimore County Club. It’s ideally placed for those interested in golfing or seeking the social perks of a country club. The Baltimore Museum of Art and Symphony Orchestra add to the local culture. Clyburn Arboretum has nature trails among its beautiful gardens. Locals are very active in creating a neighborly place to live, with a Civic association, holiday parades, and garden tours.

Education is another advantage. It’s convenient for St Mary’s Seminary and University students to get to class. Families with children like the high-performing public schools.

When Roland Park was planned, the idea was to create a “garden suburb.” That mindset is still present in the landscaping you’ll find around the residential areas. Styles here range and reflect the neighborhood’s roots as a 19th-century getaway for Baltimore’s wealthy residents. Historic colonials, Victorians, and craftsman bungalows cozy up to newer townhomes and apartments. 

Roland Park’s other advantage is its proximity to I-85. This makes it an convenient location for commuters or those who need to get to an airport. It’s a safe neighborhood in Charm City, with a crime rate of 20.5 per 1,000 residents.

Hampden

Think of Hampden as the hipster neighborhood of Baltimore. Some call it Bohemian, others indie. Either way, Hampden gets a lot of attention as a place to visit or live.

The artistic bent is clear here, especially along 36th Street. “The Avenue,” as locals call it, is lined with vintage shops, bookstores, coffee shops, and independent boutiques. Visiting them is easy. Hampden ranks as one of Baltimore’s best neighborhoods for walkability. As a local, you’ll want to walk it, especially during its beloved Hon Fest annual street fair. The community also puts on Miracle on 34th Street during the holiday season and Hampdenfest in the fall.

Locals love the parks, especially in the spring when cherry blossoms bloom. That’s a big advantage of life in Hampden. The neighborhood fits in between two massive green spaces–Druid Hill and Wyman Park. These green spaces and the pocket parks have playgrounds, dog areas, and pathways. Take a morning run on the Stony Run trail. Like gardening? Reserve a plot in one of the community gardens. And remember that artsy vibe? You’ll find even more art in the park murals. 

Hampden is part of northern Baltimore, but Light Rail stations and bus lines connect it to the greater metro. 

Mount Washington

Have you ever heard of a little race called the Preakness States? You have if you’re into horse racing. The Pimlico Race Course is beside Mount Washington, a northwest Baltimore suburban enclave. 

The amenities here encourage an incredibly active lifestyle. Find fields for lacrosse and rugby, parks with running and hiking trails, and golf courses. Join swim clubs or tennis teams. Jump on the Jones Trail for miles of biking. Mount Washington has multiple parks and even larger ones right on the community borders.

That activity is part of why locals call it “the Village.” This northwestern suburban area was once where city dwellers came to retreat. Today, it’s within the city limits and a short commute by car or rail to downtown. But why leave when it has all the essential shopping and retailers nearby?

Mount Washington’s appeal is rooted in its quiet vibes. With its tree-lined streets and independent boutique shops, it doesn’t feel like you’re in a major metro. But it’s still connected through a stop on the light rail line. Housing ranges from Victorian-styled mansions built by magnates to newer condominiums. You’ll also find the classic Baltimore row houses and townhomes, plus charming cottages.

It’s one of the safest neighborhoods in Baltimore, with the second-lowest crime rate of all city communities in 2022.

South Baltimore

Another peninsula neighborhood, this one borders Federal Hill and Riverside. Highly walkable, with a 95 on WalkScore, it’s close to the urban center but far enough away that you feel a difference coming home. Locals describe it as feeling like a small town with a strong sense of community. A lot of locals walk to the parks, the coffee shops, and local restaurants. But if you need to commute, Interstate 95 is right at the south end of the community. 

Historic Baltimore rowhouses frame the streets. Most of the neighborhood is residential, but there are some taverns and places to shop inside South Baltimore. Riverside Park is a few blocks over, as is the Bailey Recreation Center. Families have access to better-than-average public schools and excellent private schools for their kids’ education.

South Baltimore also earns high marks for safety, with the fifth-lowest crime rate in 2022.

Exploring Baltimore Neighborhoods

These top Baltimore neighborhoods are just a few of the great communities to explore. Remember, there are 200 to check out! Each has a distinct character and amenities; a local real estate expert can narrow down the best ones for your budget and lifestyle.

FAQ

What is the violent crime rate in Baltimore?

Based on 2023 data, Baltimore had a violent crime rate of 15.5 per 1,000 residents. That was above the national average of four. Aggravated assault was the highest reported violent crime. Hopkins-Middle East, West Baltimore, and Cherry Hill had the highest reported violent crime rates. Guilford, Homeland, and Canton were among the lowest.

What is the property crime rate in Baltimore?

Property crimes had an average 32.8 reported incidents per 1,000 residents. The national average at the time was 20. Theft was the highest reported property crime. Some of the safest neighborhoods were in North Baltimore and its suburbs.

Where can you find affordable housing Baltimore?

Some of the neighborhoods with the lowest median home prices are Old Town, Charles Village, and Highland Town. Monthly rent in these neighborhoods can be lower than other parts of town. Their real estate trends toward historic row houses. But if you’re looking at what affordable neighborhoods stand the best chance of appreciation, look to Ellicott City, Fells Point, Remington, and Highlandtown. 

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