A Local's Guide To Living In Annapolis, Maryland

Living In Annapolis, Maryland

Located on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and offers a rich blend of history, culture, and coastal charm. Known as the “Sailing Capital of the World,” Annapolis is home to the United States Naval Academy and boasts a vibrant maritime heritage. The city is part of Anne Arundel County and is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, bustling waterfront, and lively arts scene. Living in Annapolis, Maryland, provides residents with a unique mix of historic charm and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for those considering moving to the area. With its scenic beauty, excellent dining options, and a strong sense of community, Annapolis offers an appealing lifestyle for people of all ages.

Cost Of Living In Annapolis, Maryland

The cost of living in Annapolis, Maryland, is relatively high compared to the national average. The average home price in Annapolis is around $500,000, which is significantly higher than the Maryland average. Renting a home can cost between $1,800 and $2,500 per month, depending on the location and size of the property.

Utilities, including water, electricity, and internet, average about $150 per month. The average salary in Annapolis is approximately $70,000 per year, which helps to offset the higher cost of living. While buying a home in Annapolis can be expensive, the city offers a high quality of life with its scenic beauty, historical charm, and modern amenities.The median rent for those living in Annapolis MD is $1,498/mo.

Annapolis, Maryland’s Distance To Other Major Cities

Baltimore, MD
- Distance: 30 miles
- Time: Approximately 40 minutes by car
- Key Amenities: Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI), Inner Harbor, Johns Hopkins Hospital, National Aquarium
Washington, D.C.
- Distance: 32 miles
- Time: Approximately 50 minutes by car
- Key Amenities: Smithsonian Museums, National Mall, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), renowned hospitals like MedStar Georgetown University Hospital
Philadelphia, PA
- Distance: 100 miles
- Time: Approximately 2 hours by car
- Key Amenities: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, University of Pennsylvania
Richmond, VA
- Distance: 135 miles
- Time: Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes by car
- Key Amenities: Richmond International Airport (RIC), Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, VCU Medical Center
New York City, NY
- Distance: 200 miles
- Time: Approximately 4 hours by car
- Key Amenities: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Times Square, Central Park, major hospitals like NYU Langone Health

Annapolis, Maryland Parks

Parks In Annapolis, Maryland

Quiet Waters Park is one of the best parks in all of Maryland. It is 340 acres and packed full of things to do. From the outdoor ice rink(open in the winter), to the paved walking trails, to boat rentals, to playgrounds and more. Access to this park is one of the many perks of living in Annapolis MD.

Sandy Point State Park is 786 acres of land located along the Chesapeake Bay with views of the Bay Bridge. The park features a large beach and multiple picnic areas. It is also the home to many events throughout the year such as the Polar Bear Plunge.

Truxtun Park is located on Spa Creek and features a boat launch, a recreation center, walking trails and a seasonal pool with classes. It is a local favorite for those living in Annapolis MD.

Things To Do In Annapolis

Things To Do In Annapolis, Maryland

A favorite activity for those living in Annapolis MD is to simply go to downtown Annapolis and walk around the City Dock. You will find great views of the water and plenty of sailboats as well as plenty of restaurants to choose from. My wife and I often go here on date nights.

The B&A Trail is another major perk to living in Annapolis MD. The trail used to be a railroad track connecting Annapolis to Baltimore and is now a 13.3-mile jogging and hiking trail. I work with many clients who specifically want to be close to this trail when buying a home in Annapolis.

The United States Naval Academy plays a big role in shaping the culture of Annapolis. The Academy offers public tours which go over the history of the academy and points out some of its iconic features. If you are planning on living in Annapolis MD, I recommend taking this tour at least once, if not more.

Shopping In Annapolis

Westfield Annapolis, known as the Annapolis Mall, is the main shopping hub for those living in Annapolis MD. It has gone through recent renovations and is fully updated with a hip, family-friendly vibe. The mall features an 11-screen movie theater. The mall was also featured on Animal Planet’s show called “Tanked” when they installed a large custom fish tank.

Westfield Mall In Annapolis

The Annapolis Towne Center is known as a “lifestyle complex” and features condos for rent on its upper floors and stores and restaurants on its ground floor. You will find a Whole Foods, a Target and many other great restaurants and shops here.

The Annapolis Harbor Center is a retail complex with a small-town feel and features several specialty shops, a large movie theater & an Amish Market which is a local favorite of those living in Annapolis MD. My wife and I personally love the pretzel dogs from here which is a hot dog and cheese encased within a pretzel.

Downtown Annapolis is also a great place to do your shopping. There are many boutique and local stores to choose from.

Top Rated Schools In Annapolis, Maryland

Schools in Annapolis play a significant role in home-buying decisions for many people. The city offers a range of educational options, from highly-rated public schools to private institutions. Here are some of the top-rated schools in Annapolis:

Top High Schools in Annapolis

Broadneck High School is known for its strong academic programs and wide range of extracurricular activities. The school offers Advanced Placement courses and has a high graduation rate.

Annapolis High School offers the International Baccalaureate program and is praised for its diverse student body and supportive teachers.

South River High School is located just outside of Annapolis and is known for its excellent sports programs and high academic standards.

Top Middle Schools In Annapolis

Severn River Middle School is celebrated for its strong academic curriculum and dedicated staff.

Wiley H. Bates Middle School offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs, including a focus on the arts.

Central Middle School in nearby Edgewater is known for its supportive environment and strong academic performance.

Top Elementary Schools In Annapolis

West Annapolis Elementary School is praised for its dedicated teachers and strong community involvement.

Arnold Elementary School offers a nurturing environment and a focus on academic excellence.

Hillsmere Elementary School is known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong academic programs.

Top Employers In Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis offers a variety of job opportunities across different sectors, with an average salary of around $70,000 per year. Some of the largest employers in the area include:

Anne Arundel Medical Center is one of the top employers in Annapolis, offering a range of jobs in healthcare, from nursing to administrative positions. The medical center is known for its excellent patient care and competitive salaries.

United States Naval Academy employs a significant number of residents, providing jobs in education, administration, and facility management. Working at the Naval Academy comes with unique benefits and a sense of pride in supporting the nation’s future Navy officers.

Anne Arundel County Public Schools is another major employer, offering positions in teaching, administration, and support services. The school district is known for its commitment to educational excellence and offers competitive pay and benefits.

FAQ About Living In Annapolis, Maryland

Q: What is Annapolis, Maryland known for?

A: Annapolis, Maryland, is known for its rich maritime heritage, and historic colonial architecture, and as the home of the United States Naval Academy. The city is often referred to as the “Sailing Capital of the World.”

Q: What is the quality of life in Annapolis, Maryland?

A: The quality of life in Annapolis, Maryland, is high, with a mix of historic charm, modern amenities, scenic waterfront views, and a strong sense of community. The city offers excellent schools, dining, and recreational opportunities.

Q: Where is the nicest place to live in Annapolis Maryland?

A: One of the nicest places to live in Annapolis, Maryland, is the Historic District, known for its charming colonial homes, vibrant atmosphere, and proximity to shops and restaurants.

Q: Is Annapolis, Maryland an expensive place to live?

A: Yes, Annapolis, Maryland, is considered an expensive place to live, with higher-than-average home prices and cost of living compared to other areas in Maryland and the United States.

Q: What large cities are close to Annapolis, Maryland?

A: Large cities close to Annapolis, Maryland, include Baltimore (30 miles), Washington, D.C. (32 miles), and Philadelphia (100 miles).

Q: Is the population growing in Annapolis, Maryland?

A: Yes, the population in Annapolis, Maryland, has been growing steadily, attracted by its high quality of life, historic charm, and proximity to major metropolitan areas.

Q: What is a good salary to live comfortably in Annapolis, Maryland?

A: A good salary to live comfortably in Annapolis, Maryland, would be around $70,000 per year, considering the higher cost of living and housing prices in the area.

Q: Is Annapolis, Maryland a good place to retire?

A: Yes, Annapolis, Maryland, is a good place to retire, offering a scenic and relaxing environment, a variety of recreational activities, and a strong sense of community.