11 Richest Cities in Maryland
- Chevy Chase
- Travilah
- Bethesda
- Potomac
- Darnestown
- Poolesville
- South Kensington
- Rockville
- Chesapeake Beach
- Mount Airy
- Bowie
1. Chevy Chase
The richest city in Maryland is Chevy Chase. Located just outside of Washington D.C., this city is known for its family-friendly nature and affluent atmosphere. A primarily residential area, the city is home to just over 10,000 residents, who prefer the area for its stunning local real estate, forested streets, and exceptional school systems. Additionally, residents here will find no shortage of upscale amenities, such as private country clubs, beautiful greenspaces, and high-end shopping opportunities. With the state's highest per capita income rates, Chevy Chase is the most expensive city in all of Maryland.
2. Travilah
Travilah is the second-richest city in Maryland. Located about twenty miles northwest of downtown Washington, D.C., this is a relatively small community of nearly 12,000 people who are known for being both highly educated and extremely wealthy. A residential area, Travilah is home to a diverse range of living situations, from grande single-family estates to modern townhomes and apartments. The city is also revered for its outstanding education and possesses a number of highly-acclaimed public and private schools. The per capita income rate in Travilah is roughly $110k, making it another premier choice among the Maryland elite.
3. Bethesda
Bethesda is another one of Maryland’s richest cities. Located in Montgomery County, this city is considered a highly-desirable urban community and is home to about 68,000 affluent and highly-educated residents. The city possesses a bustling atmosphere, which is best experienced in its vibrant downtown area. Here, locals can find a diverse range of entertainment opportunities – from shops and restaurants to theaters and other art venues. Additionally, the area boasts a network of public transportation options, making it ideal for those interested in an easy commute to the nation’s capital. With a local per capita income rate of about $109k, Bethesda is a popular option for wealthy Maryland families.
4. Potomac
Potomac is one of Maryland’s richest suburbs. This residential area is considered one of Washington D.C.’s best suburbs and is known for staples like expansive estates, acclaimed school systems, and easy access to the nation’s capital. Residents here can also enjoy the surrounding area’s natural scenery, including favorite spots like the C&O Canal National Historical Park. Home values in Potomac average $1.19 Million, and the local per capita income rate falls close to $94k. This makes Potomac one of the most expensive cities to live in Maryland.
5. Darnestown
Located about 25 miles northwest of Washington D.C. is Darnestown, another one of Maryland’s richest places to live. Home to about 6,723 people, this city is best for those who prefer a small-town atmosphere with significant historical charm. Many local buildings and landmarks in this area date back to the 18th and 19th centuries and the town’s history is embedded in its streets. Even so, the community is home to several highly-rated public and private schools and is close to local parks and recreational facilities, such as Seneca Creek State Park. With an average per capita income rate of $91k, Darnestown is not to be overlooked when it comes to the richest cities in Maryland.
6. Poolesville
Poolesville is another of the richest places to live in Maryland. Considered a distant bedroom community for those who work in Washington DC, Poolesville is a quiet suburb in the western portion of Montgomery County that's home to about 5,700 residents. It's a historic town that's known for its unique attractions, quality golf courses and central location near Rockville and Frederick. Poolesville is also a very wealthy area with a median per capita income of $72,000.
7. South Kensington
South Kensington is a rich area with much to offer. Home to just under 9,000 people, this city provides its residents with a distinctly small-town atmosphere while remaining close to big-city amenities. Primarily known for being a residential area, South Kensington offers a range of upscale living opportunities, from picturesque single-family estates to urban townhomes and apartments. The community here is close-knit and strives to maintain a safe, family-friendly atmosphere within its tree-lined streets. With access to local staples such as Wheaton Regional National Park, Sligo Creek Park, and the Montgomery County Public Schools System, it’s no wonder homes for sale in South Kensington average at $921k.
8. Rockville
Rockville is another one of the wealthiest cities in Maryland for those who prefer urban living. This thriving area is home to over 67,000 people and possesses the perfect combination of residential and commercial environments. The city is best known for its strong economy, top-tier public education, diverse population, and thrilling entertainment – all of which add to its unique appeal. In particular, residents can appreciate the Rockville Town Square, which features a blend of shopping, dining, and fun local events. The city is also home to a number of major employers in the biotech and federal agency industries, which keeps the local per capita income close to $60k.
9. Chesapeake Beach
Chesapeake Beach is one of the richest and best-known cities in all of Maryland. Situated along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, this city is home to the state’s best seafood. People visit from all over the nation to taste the freshly caught Maryland Blue Crabs, Rockfish, Blue Fish, and Oysters, all of which are sourced locally. Residents can also enjoy the surrounding area’s stunning natural beauty, complete with beautiful views of the local waterfront. The local per capita income in Chesapeake Beach averages $57k, keeping it a tasty addition to the richest cities in Maryland.
10. Mount Airy
Mount Airy is also one of the richest cities in Maryland. Located in Carroll and Frederick Counties, Mount Airy is a community within both the Washington DC and Baltimore metropolitan areas that's home to just under 10,000 residents. It's known for its quaint suburb atmosphere and famously served as the inspiration for the fictional town of Mayberry in the hit TV show The Andy Griffith Show. Today, Mount Airy is still a desirable and exclusive area full of wealthy residents. The median household income is $148,779, and the average home price is $608,837.
11. Bowie
Situated halfway between Baltimore and Washington D.C. is Bowie, another one of the richest cities in Maryland. This area is home to nearly 58,000 people, all of whom enjoy the area for its family-friendly atmosphere and central location. A popular town for Maryland families, Bowie is home to an excellent selection of schools and provides locals with plenty of opportunities for wholesome entertainment. Favorite activities include visiting the Bowie Town Center, which features an excellent selection of shops and restaurants and taking a local hike at Allen Pond Park. The median household income is $127,000, making Bowie one of the wealthiest cities in Maryland.