Most Expensive Places to Live in Maryland in 2026

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Rankings: 10 Most Expensive Places in Maryland

Gibson Island, MD

How do you rate Gibson Island?

Hidden between the Chesapeake Bay and Magothy River, Gibson Island is one of the wealthiest communities in Maryland. This private island enclave is known for its waterfront mansions, yacht club culture, and exceptional privacy. Residents enjoy access to sailing at Gibson Island Yacht Squadron or play golf at Gibson Island Club. Houses of this community are built on spacious wooded plots with private docks and water views. Properties on this island frequently cross the $3 million mark, making it one of the costliest communities in Maryland.

Home Prices in Gibson Island

$3,525,000

Median Home Rent

$4,644

Homes for Sale in Gibson Island Link

(View 8 homes)

Chevy Chase, MD

How do you rate Chevy Chase?

Tree-lined streets, historic homes, and walkable shopping districts give Chevy Chase a reputation as one of the richest towns in Maryland. Sitting directly along the D.C. border, it has long been attracted attorneys, policymakers,...

100/100

Safety Score

Why is Chevy Chase safe?

Personal Safety : 100

Personal Safety: 100/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 100

Property Safety: 100/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

Larceny

Motor Vehicle Theft

Arson

Theft From Building

Community Safety : 100

Community Safety: 100/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

Stolen Property Offenses

Vandalism

Weapon Law Violations

Drug / Narcotic Violations

Home Prices in Chevy Chase

$1,755,000

Median Home Rent

$3,059

Homes for Sale in Chevy Chase Link

(View 242 homes)

Bethesda, MD

How do you rate Bethesda?

Bethesda combines the convenience of an urban living along with one of Maryland's most competitive luxury housing market. The popular Bethesda Row district features upscale restaurants, boutique shopping, and vibrant nightlife. Hi...

100/100

Safety Score

Why is Bethesda safe?

Personal Safety : 100

Personal Safety: 100/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 100

Property Safety: 100/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

Larceny

Motor Vehicle Theft

Arson

Theft From Building

Community Safety : 100

Community Safety: 100/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

Stolen Property Offenses

Vandalism

Weapon Law Violations

Drug / Narcotic Violations

Home Prices in Bethesda

$1,222,500

Median Home Rent

$3,660

Homes for Sale in Bethesda Link

(View 705 homes)

Potomac, MD

How do you rate Potomac?

Potomac has long been associated with luxury living Potomac in the Washington D.C. suburbs. Large estates along River Road and Falls Road attract executives, diplomats, and professional athletes seeking privacy and prestige. Resid...

100/100

Safety Score

Why is Potomac safe?

Personal Safety : 100

Personal Safety: 100/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 100

Property Safety: 100/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

Larceny

Motor Vehicle Theft

Arson

Theft From Building

Community Safety : 100

Community Safety: 100/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

Stolen Property Offenses

Vandalism

Weapon Law Violations

Drug / Narcotic Violations

Home Prices in Potomac

$1,215,000

Median Home Rent

$4,500

Homes for Sale in Potomac Link

(View 426 homes)

Cabin John, MD

How do you rate Cabin John?

Cabin John is a peaceful community located along the Potomac River in Montgomery County. Known for its dense wooded lots, luxury custom homes, and access to outdoor recreation, the area offers a secluded setting just outside Washi...

100/100

Safety Score

Why is Cabin John safe?

Personal Safety : 100

Personal Safety: 100/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 100

Property Safety: 100/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

Larceny

Motor Vehicle Theft

Arson

Theft From Building

Community Safety : 100

Community Safety: 100/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

Stolen Property Offenses

Vandalism

Weapon Law Violations

Drug / Narcotic Violations

Home Prices in Cabin John

$1,100,000

Median Home Rent

$1,650

Homes for Sale in Cabin John Link

(View 15 homes)

Kensington, MD

How do you rate Kensington?

Kensington offers a quieter atmosphere while remaining close to the city bustle. The town's well-known Antique Row along Howard Avenue contributes to the town's histoic charm. Families are drawn to the well-connected streets and q...

100/100

Safety Score

Why is Kensington safe?

Personal Safety : 100

Personal Safety: 100/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 100

Property Safety: 100/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

Larceny

Motor Vehicle Theft

Arson

Theft From Building

Community Safety : 100

Community Safety: 100/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

Stolen Property Offenses

Vandalism

Weapon Law Violations

Drug / Narcotic Violations

Home Prices in Kensington

$1,085,000

Median Home Rent

$1,895

Homes for Sale in Kensington Link

(View 99 homes)

Riva, MD

How do you rate Riva?

Riva offers a waterfront lifestyle just outside Annapolis, where many homes sit directly along the South River. Boating, fishing, and private docks are a major part of daily life here. Residents often spend weekends at South River Golf Links or dining near Riva Road and Annapolis Harbor. Large custom homes and waterfront estates command premium prices throughout the area. Limited shoreline inventory and strong demand for riverfront properties help support some of the highest home values in the region. The area's scenic setting and luxury real estate market rank Riva among the most expensive places to live in Maryland.

Home Prices in Riva

$854,300

Median Home Rent

$3,000

Homes for Sale in Riva Link

(View 23 homes)

North Bethesda, MD

How do you rate North Bethesda?

North Bethesda has rapidly emerged as one of Montogomery Vounty's fastest-growing luxury housing markets. The Pike & Rose district serves as a major destination for upscale apartments, rooftop lounges, shopping, and entertainment ...

100/100

Safety Score

Why is North Bethesda safe?

Personal Safety : 100

Personal Safety: 100/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 100

Property Safety: 100/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

Larceny

Motor Vehicle Theft

Arson

Theft From Building

Community Safety : 100

Community Safety: 100/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

Stolen Property Offenses

Vandalism

Weapon Law Violations

Drug / Narcotic Violations

Home Prices in North Bethesda

$824,900

Median Home Rent

$2,391

Homes for Sale in North Bethesda Link

(View 303 homes)

Ellicott City, MD

How do you rate Ellicott City?

Ellicott City blends historic charm with one of the strongest housing markets in Central Maryland. Weekends here mean brunch at a Main Street café or an afternoon exploring the historic district with family. Howard County Public S...

100/100

Safety Score

Why is Ellicott City safe?

Personal Safety : 100

Personal Safety: 100/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

Rape

Robbery

Aggravated Assault

Kidnapping / Abduction

Property Safety : 100

Property Safety: 100/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

Larceny

Motor Vehicle Theft

Arson

Theft From Building

Community Safety : 100

Community Safety: 100/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

100%

Stolen Property Offenses

Vandalism

Weapon Law Violations

Drug / Narcotic Violations

Home Prices in Ellicott City

$670,000

Median Home Rent

$2,800

Homes for Sale in Ellicott City Link

(View 393 homes)

#10

Annapolis, MD

How do you rate Annapolis?

As Maryland's capital city, Annapolis blends historic character with a high-end coastal lifestyle. Waterfront homes along Spa Creek and the Severn River remain some of the most expensive homes for sale in Maryland. Downtown Annapo...

28/100

Safety Score

Why is Annapolis safe?

Personal Safety : 7

Personal Safety: 7/100

based on following Violent Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Homicide

33.33%

Rape

38.89%

Robbery

33.33%

Aggravated Assault

179

17.89%

Kidnapping / Abduction

100%

Property Safety : 33

Property Safety: 33/100

based on following Property Crimes

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Burglary

11.59%

Larceny

334

50.15%

Motor Vehicle Theft

41.28%

Arson

Theft From Building

35.96%

Community Safety : 45

Community Safety: 45/100

based on following Other Offenses

Crime Type

Incidents

YoY Change (%)

Simple Assault

431

30.93%

Stolen Property Offenses

100%

Vandalism

224

20.28%

Weapon Law Violations

51.85%

Drug / Narcotic Violations

8.89%

Home Prices in Annapolis

$622,000

Median Home Rent

$2,608

Homes for Sale in Annapolis Link

(View 598 homes)

Your New Home is Waiting for You in Maryland

Top 3 Most Expensive Maryland Cities for Retirees

Retirees in Maryland know what they are looking for: healthcare access, safety, and a comfortable pace of life. Some communities here deliver all of that with waterfront settings and walkable neighborhoods that make everyday living genuinely enjoyable. Here are some of the most expensive places to live in Maryland that retirees keep choosing.

Bethesda - Bethesda remains one of the wealthiest communities in Maryland for retirees. The area is home to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and sits close to several top-rated healthcare facilities in Montgomery County. Neighborhoods like Edgemoor and Battery Park offer quieter streets, easy access to restaurants, and a pace of life that retirees genuinely appreciate. Downtown Bethesda also gives retirees access to parks, cultural venues, and community programs throughout the year. This has placed Bethesda among the cities with the most expensive homes in Maryland.
Annapolis - Annapolis draws retirees in with waterfront living and a coastal lifestyle that is hard to find anywhere else in Maryland. Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center keeps reliable healthcare close and accessible. Places such as Eastport and Murray Hill offer serene settings together with proximity to Chesapeake Bay. Many retirees also explore homes for sale in Annapolis because of the city's beauty and active community atmosphere. The rising demand for waterfront housing has made Annapolis one of the wealthiest cities in Maryland.
Potomac - Potomac is widely recognized as one of the richest and most private communities in Maryland. Retirees are drawn to neighborhoods like Avenel and River Falls for larger properties, golf courses, and walking trails. Congressional Country Club and TPC Potomac give golf enthusiasts two of the most prestigious courses in the entire region. The city also offers convenient access to major healthcare facilities in nearby Bethesda and Rockville. Potomac's privacy, safety, and premium housing market continue attracting retirees looking for long-term comfort and stability.

Top 3 Most Expensive Maryland Cities Worth It for Families

Top 3 Most Expensive Cities Worth It for Young Adults

Young adults moving to Maryland usually prioritize strong career opportunities, nightlife, and easy access to nearby major cities. Many are willing to pay higher housing costs for better networking, shorter commutes, and an active social environment. Here are some of the most expensive places to live in Maryland that continue to attract young professionals.

Baltimore - Baltimore continues to attract young adults because of its growing healthcare, biotech, and finance sectors. Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland Medical Center bring steady research and healthcare employment into the city. Young adults enjoy brunch in Canton or evening drinks overlooking the Inner Harbor. Neighborhoods such as Canton, Federal Hill, and Harbor East offer a mix of restaurants, nightlife, fitness studios, and waterfront amenities. Convenient MARC train service and access to Washington, D.C., also appeal to hybrid workers. As job growth and housing demand continue to increase, Baltimore remains a popular destination for young professionals in Maryland.
Gaithersburg - This city continues attracting young professionals as a result of the biotech, health care, and technology industries being on an upsurge. The I-270 tech corridor puts research and pharmaceutical companies right within reach. Kentlands is where weekends come alive as young ones go to local restaurants, fitness centers, and enjoy a neighborhood atmosphere. For young professionals seeking career growth and everyday convenience, Gaithersburg can be an ideal choice.
Takoma Park - Takoma Park appeals to young professionals owing to its pedestrian-friendly zones and closeness to Washington, D.C. The city provides a blend of coffee shops, local dining spots, music joints, and unique boutiques, ensuring that the social atmosphere remains lively all year round. Areas near Carroll Avenue and Old Town Takoma Park remain popular among younger residents looking for a balance between urban access and quieter living. Its strong community feels, and convenient location continue attracting younger buyers despite the city's rising housing costs.

Safest Places to Live in Maryland

Safety is never something people compromise on when choosing where to live. Maryland has several communities that consistently report low crime rates and a strong sense of security. Quiet neighborhoods, peaceful streets, and a genuine community feel make certain cities stand out from the rest. Explore our safest places to live in Maryland rankings to see which cities made the list.

Columbia

100/100

Score

Safest Safest

Bethesda

100/100

Score

Safest Safest

Ellicott City

100/100

Score

Safest Safest

Ocean Pines

92/100

Score

Safest Safest

University Park

91/100

Score

Safest Safest

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Ranking Methodology

To determine the most expensive places to live, we applied a structured, data-driven methodology using verified economic and housing datasets. Our analysis incorporates employment levels and job stability (Bureau of Labor Statistics), cost-of-living benchmarks (C2ER), median home prices and average rents (Houzeo housing data), and income statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau. Each factor was normalized against its respective state average to control for regional cost differences and market size. The combined metrics were then weighted and aggregated to produce a final comparative score, highlighting cities where housing costs, cost of living, and overall expenses are strongest relative to the state and national baseline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I know before moving to Maryland?

Before moving to Maryland, it's important to compare housing costs, property taxes, and commute times across different regions. Areas closer to Washington, such as Bethesda and Rockville, tend to have significantly higher home prices, while cities farther from the D.C. metro are generally more affordable. Maryland also has strong public schools, a large healthcare and government job market, and easy access to both beaches and major East Coast cities. Buyers relocating to the state should also factor in local taxes, HOA fees, and competitive housing markets in high-demand suburbs.

Which celebrity lives in Maryland?

Several celebrities have ties to Maryland, including Kevin Durant from Prince George's County and Toni Braxton from Severn. Michael Phelps also trained and lived in the Baltimore area for years. Maryland's proximity to Washington, D.C., private waterfront communities, and wealthy suburbs like Potomac and Bethesda have long attracted public figures and high-profile residents.

What is Maryland most famous for?

Maryland is most famous for its blue crabs, Chesapeake Bay waterfront, and historic cities like Annapolis and Baltimore. The state is also known for seafood culture, sailing communities, and major landmarks tied to early American history.

What is the prettiest town in Maryland?

Many people consider Annapolis the prettiest city in Maryland because of its waterfront views, colonial streets, and sailboats along the Chesapeake Bay. The city is filled with historic brick buildings, seafood restaurants, and scenic spots around City Dock and Main Street.

How do I buy a house in an expensive area in Maryland?

Buying in places like Bethesda, Potomac, or Annapolis usually requires a higher budget, strong credit, and quick decision-making because homes move fast in competitive markets. Buyers researching how to buy a house in Maryland often start by getting pre-approved, comparing neighborhoods, and working with local agents who understand luxury pricing trends.

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The market analysis provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Data is sourced from public records, industry reports, and third-party providers, and while Houzeo strives for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

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