Jump Ahead To:
Moving to a new city is always challenging. And a large part of that challenge is looking for a place to live. There are so many things to consider when weighing your options-house styles, neighborhood safety, quality of schools, the convenience of location-it all can be quite overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the research for you on the 5 best neighborhoods for families in Baltimore. And if you want to expand your search, check out our guide on the Best Suburbs of Baltimore.!
You’ve no doubt seen our Baltimore City Guide, which includes a short section on a few of Baltimore’s most popular neighborhoods.
This list and our “Best Neighborhoods for Families in Baltimore,” “Best Suburbs of Baltimore,” and our “Best Places to Live in Baltimore” lists are more in-depth neighborhood guides meant to examine what it’s like living in each of these highlighted areas, with links to popular destinations, as well as available houses for sale and apartments for rent (and by the way of introduction, we’re Bellhop—movers in Baltimore and beyond).
A Little About Baltimore and its Neighborhoods
Baltimore is a quintessential American city and a melting pot of its own. Beautifully diverse, Baltimore has 72 designated historic districts that were traditionally occupied by distinct ethnic groups (like Little Italy and Chinatown). This city is steeped in American history, and nearly one-third of the city’s buildings are designated as historic in the National Register—which is more than any other U.S. city.
Out of B’more came the Fort McHenry poem, ‘The Star-Spangled Banner,’ which became the American national anthem in 1931. Baltimore also won the hearts of many baseball fans and is the proud birthplace of Babe Ruth. This city is where you’ll find some of the tastiest blue crab cakes you’ve ever had, and where french fries are heavily dusted in Old Bay Seasoning.
A few years ago, Baltimore was acknowledged by The New York Times as one of the top 52 places to visit in the world. With tons of trendy restaurants, renowned museums, beloved sports teams, and a vibrant up-and-coming energy, Baltimore has turned into a top spot to live. And with hundreds of identified districts, Baltimore has been dubbed a “city of neighborhoods.” So where do you start? Below, we’ve narrowed the hundreds down to 5. Keep reading for 5 up and coming neighborhoods in Charm City.
Hampden
One of the more hip areas of the city, Hampden certainly has a large number of millennials and young professionals interested in the area’s artsy shows, bars, and breweries. But Hampden’s interesting character and friendly atmosphere also draw many families to the area.
Neighbors know each other by name and tight rowhouses make interactions frequent, giving this eclectic neighborhood a small-town feel. And the regular street festivals on 36th Street bring the community even closer.
What’s Happening in Hampden
The recent redevelopment of the Pepsi Company in Hampden is just one sign of this neighborhood’s growth and development. And even though this neighborhood offers many amenities, Hampden’s biggest appeal to many of its residents is its location. Sitting close to the train station, locals can access tons of amenities (or commute to their jobs) easily.
The neighborhood features plenty of parks for the kids and the pups. Trendy places like Woodberry Kitchen draw in hungry crowds. And 34th Street is lined with Hampden’s tastiest offerings. Join in on the festivities every September during HampdenFest, which features live music and tons of local art, food, and drink.
Schools in Hampden
Schools in the area include Hampden Elementary School, Calvert School, and Independence High School among others.
Homes in Hampden
You’ll find row houses and detached homes in Hampden, many of which are full of character and built in a Victorian style. Check out some of the houses for sale and apartments for rent in the area.
Washington Village
Washington Village (also known as Pigtown) is one of the top neighborhoods in Baltimore catching real estate investors’ attention. This neighborhood sits in an ideal location near downtown and close to i-95, the stadiums, and the public transit.
Recently, Washington Village’s population has seen a big uptick, with lots of students and young families moving in. But the area is still affordable compared to surrounding neighborhoods, making this a great spot to buy investment properties or a first home.
What’s Happening in Washington Village
Along with its many new residents, Washington Village has seen a number of new shops, restaurants, and businesses. Washington Village’s historic Main Street has become much busier and is a great spot to shop or grab something to eat. And the Carroll Park offers acres of peaceful green space and walking trails that are perfect for quieter outings.
Check out some top spots like Culinary Architecture Market and Kitchen and Cheat Day Bar and Grill. Or explore some local businesses like Ripp’d Canvas and 2 Chic Boutique.
Schools in Washington Village
Schools in the area include George Washington Elementary, Southwest Baltimore Charter School, and Saint Jerome School among others.
Homes in Washington Village
Washington Village is packed with condos, row homes, and new constructions. Here are some of the houses for sale and apartments for rent in the area.
Federal Hill
One of Baltimore’s top neighborhoods, Federal Hill welcomes families, young professionals, and entrepreneurs alike. The neighborhood sits in a prime location at a walkable distance from the Inner Harbor and Downtown and features many surrounding restaurants, museums, and city attractions.
The neighborhood is lively and tight-knit. Right in the heart of Historic South Baltimore, Federal Hill is known for its beautiful homes and easy commutes to the heart of the city. Residents in the area also love Federal Hill’s parks and waterfront amenities.
What’s Happening in Federal Hill
Along its cobblestone streets, Federal Hill features many creative eateries and local bars. Check out some of the local-favorites like Hersh’s, Little Havana, Matsuri, 3 Bean Coffee, and Blue Agave. Looking for a cozy late-night destination for evening readers of friendly gatherings? Visit The Book Escape. This bookstore feels like the charming Shop Around the Corner from You’ve Got Mail.
Federal Hill’s historic Cross Street Market was built in the 19th-century and sells locals and visitors fresh meats, produce, flowers, and baked goods. Check out the American Visionary Art Museum, the Baltimore Museum of Industry, or the Maryland Science Center for a sampling of Federal Hill’s cultural, historical, and educational offerings.
Schools in Federal Hill
Schools in the area include The Crossroads School, Thomas Johnson Middle School, and Digital Harbor High School among others.
Homes in Federal Hill
From luxury condos to 19th-century brick row homes, housing in Federal Hill is an aesthetic blend. Here are some of the houses for sale and apartments for rent in the area.
Mount Vernon
Centered around the magnificent Washington Monument (the first before D.C.’s), Mount Vernon is full of historic landmarks and buildings. This neighborhood is home to numerous 19th-century mansions that have been converted into museums, hotels, shops, and restaurants. Residents and tourists commonly lounge on the central park squares surrounding the monument, and many of the neighborhood’s community events are hosted around these lawns.
What’s Happening in Mount Vernon
Filled with museums, venues, and theaters, Mount Vernon is Baltimore’s most popular cultural district. See some of Mount Vernon’s proudest spots with a visit to the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, the George Peabody Library, the Walters Art Museum, and the Baltimore Center Stage state theater.
There are plenty of citywide favorites when it comes to dining and drinking in this top neighborhood too. Check out Dooby’s, The Land of Kush, Tio Pepe, and The Brewer’s Art for a sampling of Mount Vernon’s finest flavors.
Schools in Mt. Vernon
Schools in the area include City Springs Elementary School, Thomas Johnson Middle School, and Paul Laurence Dunbar High School among others.
Homes in Mount Vernon
With plenty of brownstone and old, exposed brick, finding a gorgeous home in Mount Vernon won’t pose a challenge. Prices are high here, but this neighborhood is in high demand and offers great investment opportunities still. Here are some of the houses for sale and apartments for rent in the area.
Fells Point
Fells Point is like a time capsule. The neighborhood is one of the oldest in Baltimore, and its cobblestone streets, brick townhouses, and views of the harbor preserve its historic and charming vibe. Despite its old character, the very walkable Fells Point is certainly not stagnant, and hip shops, restaurant, and bars fill up with lots of young locals.
What’s Happening in Fells Point
Fells Point offers plenty of great drinking and dining destinations. The neighborhood has its own classic style of bars, with tons of taverns, and pubs. Visit One-Eyed Mike’s or The Elk Room speakeasy for some delicious craft cocktails. One of the top places you should start for dinner is Thames Street Oyster House which serves fresh and flavorful seafood dishes.
Stop through some of the area’s local shops like B’more Betty and Zelda Zen. For a feel of Fells Point history, check out the Frederick Douglass-Issac Myers Maritime Museum. Or peak into Baltimore’s less flattering past with a Fells Point Wicked History Pub Tour.
Schools in Fells Point
Schools in the area include The Crossroads School and The New Century School among others.
Homes in Fells Point
Fells Point features a range of housing options, from affordable rowhomes to pricier new constructions and converted or preserved historic buildings. Here are some of the houses for sale and apartments for rent in the area.
There you have it: the 5 Best neighborhoods for Families in Baltimore!
We hope this guide to the best neighborhoods for families in Baltimore helpful, and if you decide to take the plunge, don’t hesitate to reach out to your friends here at Bellhop. As we said, we coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Baltimore, and we would love to help.
- The 5 Best Neighborhoods in Saint Louis (Updated 2024) - March 15, 2024
- Is Moving to Pennsylvania Right for You? A 2024 Guide. - March 4, 2024
- The Best Neighborhoods in Cleveland (Updated 2024) - February 15, 2024
