Baltimore is the largest city in Maryland and the center of a metropolitan area of 1.5 million people. It is located on the Chesapeake Bay and is known for its Inner Harbor. The city offers cultural opportunities, professional sports, outdoor activities, and much more. If you enjoy the surf and sand, Baltimore is within driving distance of beaches and ocean resorts. Washington, D.C., Philadelphia and New York are also an easy drive or train ride away.

Even though there are many great things about Baltimore, you may not want to commit to buying or renting in the city. Fortunately, there are countless cities near Baltimore that may meet your budget and needs while keeping you within commuting distance. We’ve listed out 11 cities near Baltimore to consider buying a house or renting an apartment this year. Check them out – you may end up deciding to call one of them home. 

#1: Dundalk, MD

Miles from Baltimore: 10
Population: 64,000
Median home sale price: $199,000 
Average 1-bed rent: $1,187 
Walk Score: 49
Bike Score: 31
Transit Score: 43

Dundalk, MD, comprises more than 20 small town-like neighborhoods, all with easy access to Baltimore. Its 43 miles of waterfront, great restaurants, and expansive parks make it a desirable place to live. A fun fact about the city is that it was named after Dundalk, Ireland.

There are a variety of things to do in Dundalk. There are several parks and recreation areas, including the Patapsco Valley State Park, which offers hiking, biking, and camping. There are also some historical sites, such as the Thomas Viaduct and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum. There’s something for everyone living in Dundalk.

Homes for sale in Dundalk, MD
Apartments for rent in Dundalk, MD

#2: Towson, MD

Miles from Baltimore: 10
Population: 58,000
Median home sale price: $408,345 
Average 1-bed rent: $1,807 
Walk Score: 50
Bike Score: 37
Transit Score: 36

Towson is located just north of Baltimore’s city center. It is best known as the home of Towson University, Maryland’s second-largest university. Towson might be a college town, but has all the benefits of living in a major metropolitan area, including shopping, entertainment, and family activities.

There are plenty of things to do for those living in Towson. Residents can visit the Towson Town Center mall, dine at one of the many restaurants, or catch a movie at the AMC Towson Town Center 16 movie theater. For those looking for something more active, residents can check out the Towson Sports Complex, which offers a variety of sports facilities and programs. There are also several parks in the area, and perfect for a picnic or a game of fetch with a furry friend.

Homes for sale in Towson, MD
Apartments for rent in Towson, MD

#3: Ellicott City, MD

Miles from Baltimore: 13
Population: 73,500
Median home sale price: $690,000 
Average 1-bed rent: $1,760 
Walk Score: 23
Bike Score: 11
Transit Score: 23

Ellicott City, MD, is recognized for Centennial Park, which has won awards for its natural design and sensitivity to nature. The city is home to 73,000 residents and provides a welcoming and small-town feel. An interesting fact about the city is that its home to the oldest surviving railroad station in the U.S.

If you’re moving to Ellicott City, you won’t be disappointed by the wealth of things to do in the area. The area is known for its museums, like the Ellicott City B&O Railroad Station Museum and the Ellicott City Firehouse Museum, as well as the Howard County Historical Society. You can also catch a show at the Blackbox Theatre or browse the local galleries, like the Howard County Arts Council. And when you need to get some fresh air, you can explore one of the many parks, such as Centennial Park, Patapsco Valley State Park, and or Patapsco State Park.

Homes for sale in Ellicott City, MD
Apartments for rent in Ellicott City, MD

#4: Glen Burnie, MD

Miles from Baltimore: 13
Population: 70,000
Median home sale price: $360,000 
Average 1-bed rent: $1,457 
Walk Score: 36
Bike Score: 22
Transit Score: 41

Glen Burnie, Maryland, is located in Anne Arundel County. The city has more than a dozen neighborhoods, each with its own local flavor.

There are plenty of things to do in Glen Burnie, Maryland. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are hiking and biking trails at the nearby Patuxent River Park. History buffs can explore the Glen Burnie House, a historic home dating back to the 18th century. The Maryland Maritime Museum is also worth a visit, as is the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds. For shoppers, the Arundel Mills Mall is a popular destination. And for those looking for a bite to eat, there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from.

Homes for sale in Glen Burnie, MD
Apartments for rent in Glen Burnie, MD

#5: Severn, MD

Miles from Baltimore: 16
Population: 53,500
Median home sale price: $470,000 
Average 1-bed rent: $2 
Walk Score: 17
Bike Score: 16
Transit Score: 30

Severn, MD, is known for its industrial past, rich natural resources, and suburban feel. With a population of just 51, 000, it offers the benefit of small-city living with the perks of being located near many large cities, including Washington, D.C., and Baltimore.

Severn is a great place to move to, with plenty of places to visit. The downtown area has a vibrant art and culture scene, and you’ll never get tired of it. The city is also home to Jessup-Provinces Park, Lake Village Park, and Quail Run Dog Park – perfect for a relaxing day out. For a taste of what Severn has to offer, make sure to grab a bite to eat at China Sea Restaurant.

Homes for sale in Severn, MD
Apartments for rent in Severn, MD

#6: Columbia, MD

Miles from Baltimore: 20
Population: 105,500
Median home sale price: $425,000 
Average 1-bed rent: $1,751 
Walk Score: 33
Bike Score: 28
Transit Score: 32

Columbia is known for being comprised of 10 self-contained villages. The village concept gives Columbia a small-town feel even though its population is 105, 500.

Living in Columbia means you’ll have access to a vibrant town center featuring Lake Kittamaqundi, a promenade, restaurants, a mall with a variety of shops, department stores, and a multiplex movie theater. Other popular attractions include the Columbia Museum of Art, the National Aquarium, and the Maryland Zoo.

Homes for sale in Columbia, MD
Apartments for rent in Columbia, MD

#7: Annapolis, MD

Miles from Baltimore: 30
Population: 39,500
Median home sale price: $550,000 
Average 1-bed rent: $2,360 
Walk Score: 48
Bike Score: 35
Transit Score: 58

Annapolis, MD, is a beautiful city located on the water. It’s known as the Sailing Capital of the U.S. and home to the U.S. Naval Academy. Annapolis is also home to Romanesque-style buildings, such as St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, which features Tiffany glass windows.

There are a variety of things to do while living in Annapolis. Some popular attractions include visiting the United States Naval Academy, strolling through the historic district, and enjoying the waterfront. Restaurants and top-rated eateries are found in Annapolis, so you don’t want to skip over these local favorites. For a quick taste of the town, stop by Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, and Chevy’s Fresh Mex Restaurants.

Homes for sale in Annapolis, MD
Apartments for rent in Annapolis, MD

#8: Bowie, MD

Miles from Baltimore: 30
Population: 58,000
Median home sale price: $490,000 
Average 1-bed rent: $2,052 
Walk Score: 25
Bike Score: 24
Transit Score: 38

The city of Bowie, Maryland, has a rich and diverse historic and cultural heritage.  The city was incorporated in 1874 as Huntington but changed its name in honor of local resident Governor Oden Bowie. Bowie has since become a dynamic community and rivaling the most prosperous cities in the region.

If you’re looking for things to do in Bowie, Maryland, there are plenty of options available. You could visit the Bowie Train Museum, take a walk or hike through one of Bowie’s many parks, or check out the historic Bowie Town Center. Or, if you’re looking for something more active, you could play a round of golf at one of Bowie’s several golf courses or attend a concert or event at the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts. And, of course, you could always shop at one of Bowie’s many retail stores and outlets. Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to have a great time living in Bowie.

Homes for sale in Bowie, MD
Apartments for rent in Bowie, MD

#9: Silver Spring, MD

Miles from Baltimore: 35
Population: 81,000
Median home sale price: $540,000 
Average 1-bed rent: $1,852 
Walk Score: 63
Bike Score: 63
Transit Score: 58

Silver Spring, Maryland, is a city located on the northern border of Washington, D.C. This city is a great place to live if you’re looking for all the entertainment and arts of a major city without the congestion and other issues that usually come with city living. Silver Spring is made up of many different neighborhoods, each of which feels more like the suburbs, and with quiet streets and plenty of space.

There is a lot to do in Silver Spring. There are plenty of great restaurants, bars, shops, and parks to explore. The American Film Institute Silver Theatre and the National Museum of African Art are both located in Silver Spring. Several great events take place in Silver Spring throughout the year, such as the Silver Spring Jazz Festival and the Silver Spring Blues Festival.

Homes for sale in Silver Spring, MD
Apartments for rent in Silver Spring, MD

#10: Germantown, MD

Miles from Baltimore: 48
Population: 90,000
Median home sale price: $391,000 
Average 1-bed rent: $1,743 
Walk Score: 36
Bike Score: 37
Transit Score: 45

Germantown, MD, is a city with a lot to offer. Not only is it home to beautiful national parks, but it also has a rich history dating back to the Civil War. The city gets its name from the German settlers who opened shops along the main road during the 1800s. Today, Germantown is a welcoming and small-town feel city with various outdoor venues to visit, including peach orchards and farmers’ markets.

There are plenty of things to do for those living in Germantown. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore in the historic downtown area, and the community is home to several parks, including the Seneca Creek State Park. There are also several events and festivals held throughout the year, such as the Germantown Oktoberfest and the Germantown Day Celebration.

Homes for sale in Germantown, MD
Apartments for rent in Germantown, MD

#11: Frederick, MD

Miles from Baltimore: 50
Population: 72,000
Median home sale price: $392,600 
Average 1-bed rent: $1,767 
Walk Score: 47
Transit Score: 47

Frederick, MD, which is home to 72, 000 people, has a 50-block historic district with a lot of Civil War history. It’s a small city, so you’ll get that small-town feel. An interesting detail is that Frederick served as a major hospital center during the Civil War for wounded soldiers. Another fun piece of information is that Frederick was home to Francis Scott Key and the author of the Star-Spangled Banner.

There are many things to do in Frederick, Maryland. The National Museum of Civil War Medicine, downtown Frederick with its shops and restaurants, the historic buildings, Gambrill State Park, the Monocacy National Battlefield, and the Weinberg Center for the Arts are just some of the attractions.

Homes for sale in Frederick, MD
Apartments for rent in Frederick, MD

Methodology: All cities must have a population of more than 50,000 and be less than 50 miles away from Baltimore. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during August 2022. Average rental data from Rent.com during August 2022. Walk Score, Bike Score, and Transit Score from Walkscore.com during August 2022. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.