In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable Baltimore suburbs—from the historic charm of Catonsville to the planned communities of Columbia—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in Baltimore or curious about the different Baltimore neighborhoods around the city, let’s discover the best parts of Baltimore to call home.
1. Towson
Known for: College town vibe, proximity to Johns Hopkins University, shopping
Towson is a lively, well-known suburb of Baltimore, offering a mix of suburban living with plenty of city-like amenities. It’s home to Towson University, giving it a vibrant energy, especially in its downtown area, which is packed with restaurants, cafes, and shops. The Towson Town Center is one of the largest shopping malls in the region, offering upscale retail and dining. Housing in Towson varies from classic older homes with historical charm to newer modern developments. Towson is also conveniently located, making commuting into Baltimore a breeze for those looking to stay close to the city without living in it.
Population: 58,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,719
Median home sale price: $428,500
Towson transportation scores: Walk Score 50, Bike Score 36, Transit Score 37
Apartments for rent in Towson, MD | Houses for rent in Towson, MD | Homes for sale in Towson, MD
2. Ellicott City
Known for: Historic downtown, parks, and rolling hills
Ellicott City is a picturesque suburb with a strong historical presence. Its quaint downtown area is filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and historic landmarks, including some that date back to the 18th century. For those who enjoy the outdoors, Ellicott City offers plenty of scenic parks and trails, such as Patapsco Valley State Park, where hiking and picnicking are popular weekend activities. The housing market in Ellicott City is diverse, with a mix of historic homes and newer developments, making it an ideal place for people seeking charm with modern comforts.
Population: 73,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,950
Median home sale price: $667,000
Ellicott City transportation scores: Walk Score 23, Bike Score 23, Transit Score 11
Apartments for rent in Ellicott City, MD | Houses for rent in Ellicott City, MD | Homes for sale in Ellicott City, MD
3. Catonsville
Known for: Historic charm, local shops, community events
Catonsville is a charming suburb southwest of Baltimore that feels like a small town with its local festivals, community events, and tight-knit atmosphere. Catonsville’s “Main Street” is home to independently owned shops, cafes, and restaurants that give the area a welcoming feel. This historic suburb is filled with older homes, some of which date back to the 19th century. Nearby parks, including the expansive Patapsco Valley State Park, offer plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. It’s an ideal place for those seeking a slower pace while still being close to Baltimore’s urban core.
Population: 42,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,694
Median home sale price: $420,000
Catonsville transportation scores: Walk Score 38, Bike Score 34, Transit Score 34
Apartments for rent in Catonsville, MD | Houses for rent in Catonsville, MD | Homes for sale in Catonsville, MD
4. Owings Mills
Known for: New developments, shopping, and convenient commuting
Owings Mills is a rapidly growing suburb located northwest of Baltimore, known for its modern amenities and convenient location for commuters. It’s home to a variety of shopping centers, including the Owings Mills Mall, and a wide selection of restaurants and entertainment venues. The housing market in Owings Mills consists of newer developments, from townhouses to single-family homes, making it popular for those seeking suburban living with updated features. Public transportation is readily available through the metro system, connecting residents to downtown Baltimore in under 30 minutes.
Population: 35,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,812
Median home sale price: $310,150
Owings Mills transportation scores: Walk Score 35, Bike Score 24, Transit Score 22
Apartments for rent in Owings Mills, MD | Houses for rent in Owings Mills, MD | Homes for sale in Owings Mills, MD
5. Columbia
Known for: Master-planned community, outdoor activities, and diverse amenities
Columbia is a master-planned suburb of Baltimore that offers a balanced mix of urban convenience and suburban peace. Its well-designed neighborhoods are surrounded by ample green spaces, parks, and lakes, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Columbia’s Downtown area is home to The Mall in Columbia, offering a wide range of shopping and dining options. The community is also known for its strong sense of inclusion, with a variety of cultural and recreational activities available year-round. Columbia offers a wide range of housing, from apartments to large single-family homes, providing options for nearly every preference.
Population: 104,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,191
Median home sale price: $500,000
Columbia transportation scores: Walk Score 33, Bike Score 32, Transit Score 28
Apartments for rent in Columbia, MD | Houses for rent in Columbia, MD | Homes for sale in Columbia, MD
6. Pikesville
Known for: Suburban feel, proximity to downtown Baltimore, strong community
Pikesville offers a suburban environment with a blend of historical homes and newer developments. It’s just a short drive from downtown Baltimore, making it a convenient choice for commuters. Pikesville features plenty of local shops, dining, and community events that give it a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. With parks such as the nearby Milford Mill Park, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it a balanced spot for city proximity and suburban tranquility.
Population: 33,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,778
Median home sale price: $429,000
Pikesville transportation scores: Walk Score 33, Bike Score 28, Transit Score 28
Apartments for rent in Pikesville, MD | Houses for rent in Pikesville, MD | Homes for sale in Pikesville, MD
7. Lutherville-Timonium
Known for: Quiet suburban atmosphere, access to top schools, local shops
Lutherville-Timonium is a serene suburb with a small-town vibe while being located just 15 minutes from Baltimore’s urban core. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and green spaces, Lutherville-Timonium is a prime location for those looking to live in a well-connected yet quiet area. There are plenty of boutique shops and local eateries in the area, giving it a community-centered feel. The housing market consists of a mix of single-family homes and townhomes, with tree-lined streets that give the area a cozy, residential vibe.
Population: 36,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,430
Median home sale price: $476,000
Lutherville-Timonium transportation scores: Walk Score 46, Bike Score 23
Apartments for rent in Lutherville-Timonium, MD | Houses for rent in Lutherville-Timonium, MD | Homes for sale in Lutherville-Timonium, MD
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the Baltimore area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of October 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.