Why Are People Moving Out of DC and into the Suburbs of Maryland?

October 1, 2023 | Lifestyle & Community | By: The Goodhart Group

The charming state of Maryland, located just outside of Washington, DC, has become an increasingly popular destination for people seeking a change of scenery from the city along with a high quality of life. In Montgomery County, Bethesda, and Chevy Chase are two popular and highly sought-after affluent suburban communities just outside of DC, and in Prince George’s County University Park, Fairwood, Cheverly, Bowie, Greenbelt, and National Harbor offer attractive median house prices and rental rates that are hard to find in DC.

Let’s delve into what makes these suburbs so appealing to residents. In this blog post, we will explore the factors that make Maryland an attractive place to live and the unique qualities it possesses.

Montgomery County

Located just northwest of Washington, DC, Montgomery County (MoCo) is known for its charming neighborhoods and thriving downtown areas in Bethesda and Chevy Chase. It offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and suburban charm, making it an attractive choice for families and professionals.

Shopping and Dining: Downtown Bethesda and Chevy Chase are vibrant hubs of activity, featuring an array of upscale shops, restaurants, art galleries, theaters, and entertainment venues. The Bethesda Row area offers a trendy and walkable district, making it a popular spot for shopping and dining. The nearby Chevy Chase Pavilion and Friendship Heights offer many high-end shopping options, including designer boutiques and luxury brands. 

Residential Charm: Montgomery County is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and a strong sense of community. The neighborhoods here feature a mix of architectural styles, from charming bungalows to grand estates, providing a diverse range of housing options.

Healthcare: Bethesda is renowned for its medical facilities, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The presence of these prestigious institutions attracts healthcare professionals and researchers to the area.

Transportation: MoCo benefits from excellent transportation options, including the Bethesda Metro and Friendship Heights Metro stations, which provides easy access to downtown DC and other parts of the city. Additionally, major highways such as I-495 and I-270 make commuting to surrounding areas convenient.

Green Spaces: Residents of Montgomery County can enjoy numerous parks and green spaces, including the scenic Capital Crescent Trail, Glen Echo Park, and the Chevy Chase Recreation Center. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor activities, picnics, and sports.


Aiming to buy a home? Check out these blog posts for helpful guidance.


Prince George’s County

Located in the eastern portion of Maryland, Prince George’s County offers attractive median house prices and rental rates in areas such as University Park, Fairwood, Cheverly, Bowie, Greenbelt, and National Harbor, as well as a vibrant community with a rich history and a range of amenities.

Affordable Housing: Prince George’s County provides various housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, making it an attractive choice for individuals and families seeking more affordable housing than neighboring areas.

Cultural Attractions: The county has cultural attractions, such as the National Harbor, which features waterfront dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Additionally, the MGM National Harbor Casino offers a luxurious resort experience with gaming, restaurants, and live entertainment.

Healthcare: Prince George’s County is home to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a leading healthcare facility.

Transportation: With many Metro stations throughout the county, residents have easy access to downtown DC and neighboring areas. The county is also served by the MARC train service, connecting commuters to various destinations within Maryland. Prince George’s County operates a comprehensive bus service known as “TheBus,” offering reliable transportation within the county. Additionally, the county benefits from major highways and ongoing efforts to enhance bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, ensuring convenient and accessible transportation for residents and visitors.

Outdoor Recreation: The county boasts numerous parks, including the expansive Greenbelt Park and the Patuxent River Park, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife observation. The county’s proximity to the Chesapeake Bay also allows residents to enjoy water activities and scenic views.

The Bottom Line

For those looking to get out of the city, the surrounding Maryland suburbs can offer residents an attractive combination of a strong sense of community, a suburban lifestyle, and easy access to the amenities of Washington, DC. The vibrant suburbs of Maryland continue to draw individuals and families who seek a high quality of life in a suburban setting while still being within reach of the nation’s capital.

Are you interested in buying or selling in Maryland? We’d love to help, contact us today!

Contact Us

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.