Anne Arundel County, Maryland – Home Buyer Guide

Why People Choose to Live in Anne Arundel County

Anne Arundel County blends Chesapeake Bay waterfront beauty with central access to both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Residents are drawn to the area for its sailing culture, historic Annapolis, excellent schools in certain clusters, and an active lifestyle rooted in parks, trails, and community recreation. The county’s 533 miles of shoreline offer unmatched opportunities for boating, fishing, and crabbing, while its neighborhoods balance suburban convenience with scenic green spaces.

About the Area

  • Location: Centrally in Maryland, bordered by the Chesapeake Bay.
  • Population: ~570,000 residents (Anne Arundel County Government).
  • Geography: Over 533 miles of coastline and 70+ communities, ranging from historic Annapolis to suburban Severna Park and Crofton.
  • Parks & Recreation: The county operates 95 community/neighborhood parks, two state parks, and more than 100 recreation facilities (Anne Arundel Recreation & Parks).

Cost of Living

  • Overall cost of living is about 15% higher than the U.S. average (BestPlaces).
  • Median household income: ~$120,300 (USAFacts).
  • Homeownership rate: ~75% (DataUSA).

Buyer Tip: Homes near waterfront and top-rated schools can command a premium. Budget carefully for property taxes, HOA fees, and flood insurance if buying near the Bay.

Living in the Area: Schools & Neighborhoods

Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) is Maryland’s fifth-largest school district, with several highly rated schools:

  • High Schools: Severna Park HS, Broadneck HS, South River HS, Crofton HS.
  • Elementary Standouts: Benfield ES, Shipley’s Choice ES, Davidsonville ES, Crofton Woods ES.
  • Many schools have earned Maryland 5-Star ratings (AACPS).

Buyer Tip: School feeder patterns (elementary → middle → high) can be important for home prices and resale value.

Parks, Trails & Outdoor Recreation

Public swim centers: Arundel Olympic Swim Center and North Arundel Aquatic Center.

Golf in the County

Dining & Nightlife

Annapolis anchors the food scene with Chesapeake seafood and lively pubs:

Nightlife is centered on Annapolis pubs, waterfront bars, and live music venues, with larger entertainment at Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland.

Shopping

Major Attractions

Buyer Tips for Anne Arundel County

  1. Waterfront Homes: Always check FEMA flood maps and insurance costs.
  2. Schools Drive Value: Severna Park, Broadneck, Crofton clusters are some of the popular schools. 
  3. Commute Balance: Homes closer to I-97 or Route 50 save time but often cost more.
  4. Taxes & HOAs: Budget for property taxes, special assessments, and HOA fees.
  5. Lifestyle Fit: Decide if you want suburban convenience (Crofton, Odenton) or a more historic waterfront lifestyle (Annapolis, Severna Park).

Find a place to live in Anne Arundel County

$809,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ MDAA2156858 MLS
Public: TO BE BUILT NEW CONSTRUCTION. Beautiful lot Co- Marketed with Caruso Homes. This Model is the -----DEERFIELD--- The Deerfield is a four-bedroom floor plan with the option to add an In-Law suite downstairs. Enjoy gathering with family and friends in this open concept home which features a large great room that flows right into the kitchen. A 9-foot island and plenty of counter space will please the chef and a formal dining room is perfect for serving up family meals. Upstairs, the large owner's suite offers an ensuite bath with his and her walk-in closets. Three additional bedrooms, a hall bath and a convenient laundry room complete the second floor. An optional third floor provides a loft and full bath for additional living space. Plenty of options and upgrades are available to personalize this home and make it your own! --- Buyer may choose any of Caruso’s models that will fit on the lot, prices will vary. Photos are provided by the Builder. Photos and tours may display optional features and upgrades that are not included in the price. Final sq footage are approx. and will be finalized with final options. Upgrade options and custom changes are at an additional cost. Pictures shown are of proposed models and do not reflect the final appearance of the house and yard settings. All prices are subject to change without notice. Purchase price varies by chosen elevations and options. The price shown includes the Base House Price, The Lot and the Estimated Lot Finishing Cost Only. Price is base price only.

lot 331 332 Edgemont St, Edgewater
$2,499,500
6 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ MDAA2156370 MLS
There are houses that simply check the boxes—and then there are houses that have a sense of place. Tucked away at the end of a quiet street in the coveted Wardour neighborhood, this beautifully crafted custom home is filled with the details that make a house memorable: gorgeous millwork, custom built-ins, gracious rooms, beautiful gardens and spaces designed for both gathering and retreat. At the heart of the home is a stunning chef’s kitchen that opens seamlessly to the spacious family room and screened porch—equally suited to busy mornings, relaxed weekends and a house full of friends. Custom built-ins surround the breakfast area, while formal living and dining rooms offer elegant spaces for entertaining without feeling overly formal. Upstairs, the expansive primary suite feels like a true retreat, with an oversized walk-in closet and spa-inspired bath featuring dual vanities, a soaking tub and separate shower. Two additional bedroom suites, a generous bonus room perfect for a family room, library, playroom or home office, and a large laundry room complete the second level. The third floor adds two more bedrooms and a full bath, offering tremendous flexibility for guests, work or hobbies. The lower level adds another layer of versatility, with its own private entrance, living room, full kitchen, bedroom, full bath and separate laundry. Ideal for extended family, an au pair or long-term guests, this completely independent apartment has also historically rented for $2,100 per month. Outside, the grounds are every bit as special as the home itself. Beautifully established English-style gardens surround the property, with lush plantings and masses of mature hydrangeas creating a setting that feels almost Nantucket-like in the summer. The screened porch overlooks this private garden retreat and may quickly become your favorite room in the house. A circular driveway provides generous off-street parking, while the oversized two-car garage includes custom built-in storage. And perhaps the most Annapolis detail of all: step outside in the morning and you can hear reveille from the U.S. Naval Academy; in the evening, taps carries through the air. Downtown Annapolis, the Naval Academy, marinas, restaurants and shopping are all just minutes away, with easy access to Route 50 making commuting simple and convenient. As an added benefit, the entire home has historically rented for approximately $16,000 during Naval Academy Commissioning Week—an exceptional opportunity unique to this sought-after Annapolis location. Beautifully built, wonderfully livable and unmistakably Annapolis—this is a home with room for everyone, and then some.

4 Ridge Rd, Annapolis
$989,900
5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ MDAA2156808 MLS
Nestled in the serene Harwood community, this stunning Victorian home, originally built in 1850 and beautifully renovated in 2007, offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Spanning over 3,088 square feet, this residence features five spacious bedrooms and four full bathrooms, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking both space and elegance. Step inside to discover exquisite craftsmanship, highlighted by intricate crown moldings, wainscoting, and built-ins that reflect the home's rich history. The heart of the home is the inviting kitchen, complete with a central island, breakfast area, and butler's pantry, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. Enjoy cozy evenings by one of the five fireplaces, each adorned with glass doors and mantels that add warmth and character. Natural light floods the home through bay and bow windows, while skylights enhance the airy feel. The main floor laundry adds convenience, and the double staircase offers a unique architectural touch. Outside, the expansive 4.35-acre lot is a private oasis, bordered by trees and lush landscaping, providing tranquil views of nature. With a circular gravel driveway and ample parking, this property is designed for both comfort and functionality. Located in a peaceful rural setting, it's a perfect sanctuary to call home. Experience the unique design and timeless elegance of this remarkable property, where every detail invites you to relax and unwind.

4601 S Polling House Rd S, Harwood
$2,950,000
4 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ MDAA2155880 MLS
Welcome to the coveted South River Landing waterfront community, where spectacular open views across the South River create an extraordinary backdrop for everyday living. Beautifully constructed, this impressive all-brick residence offers three finished levels, expansive outdoor living spaces, and walls of windows capturing the ever-changing waterfront scenery. A grand entrance with soaring elegant curved staircase and impressive custom front door sets the tone for the spacious interiors. The main level is designed around the views, with the beautifully appointed kitchen flowing seamlessly into the living room with fireplace and casual dining area. Whether gathering around the kitchen, hosting dinner in the formal dining room with custom built-ins, or stepping outside to the sprawling waterside balcony, the South River is always part of the experience. Two ensuite bedrooms and a powder room provide additional comfort and flexibility on this level. Upstairs, a spacious multi-purpose living area with fireplace and built-in entertainment center creates an inviting destination of its own. A full second kitchen makes entertaining effortless and offers wonderful flexibility for extended family or guests. A full bath with soaking tub and separate shower, powder room, and finished bonus room above the garage provide even more options for relaxing, working, or accommodating visitors. The finished lower level is made for evenings at home and weekends with family and friends, with a recreation area centered around a fireplace, wet bar, wine cellar, and dedicated theater room. An additional ensuite bedroom offers private guest accommodations. An elevator connects all three levels, while laundry facilities on each floor add exceptional everyday convenience. Residents of gated South River Landing enjoy 24-hour staffed security, a waterfront pool, deep-water marina, kayak launch, tennis courts, playground, basketball court, private beach, and scenic walking trails. From mornings on the balcony overlooking the river to afternoons on the water and evenings gathered by the fire, this exceptional home captures the relaxed yet refined South River lifestyle, all just minutes from Annapolis with convenient access to Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. Welcome Home!

720 South River Landing Rd, Edgewater
$909,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ MDAA2156732 MLS
Immaculate and turn-key brick front colonial in the sought after Chapel Grove community. Bright, open floor plan. Hardwood flooring throughout the main level. Formal Dining Room with tons of natural light. Spacious Family Room with cozy gas fireplace and built in bookcase just off the eat in Kitchen. Granite counters, stainless steel appliances, breakfast bar and recessed lighting, along with a HUGE pantry make this a Cooks' Kitchen. Amazing screened room with vaulted ceilings enables you to enjoy the outdoors overlooking large rear yard. Four nicely sized upper level bedrooms including Primary Bedroom with sitting area and attached luxury double vanity bathroom. Fully finished lower level with walkout to backyard. Huge Recreation Room, Office/Spare Bedroom, full bathroom and BONUS Room for home gym/hobby/crafting. Wonderful community offers pool, tot lots and sport fields. Take advantage of the Solar power purchase agreement in place that will transfer with the house, full agreement is attached in disclosures.

1569 Star Stella Dr, Odenton
$455,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ MDAA2156568 MLS
Well-maintained 4 bedroom 2.5 bath townhouse with finished lower level has a bright open floor plan with LVP throughout the main level, a flexible great room, large dining area, and a 3-level bump out adding additional living space for home office, gym, game room, play room, and more. Roof is only 18 months old and the hot water heater is approximately 4 years old. Retreat to the primary bedroom with large walk-in closet, full bath with separate shower and soaking tub and a vaulted ceiling. The lower level offers a bedroom, half bath, laundry, and spacious finished area with walkout to a patio and private, partially fenced yard that backs to green space. All this with a location that can't be beat - easy access to Ft. Meade/NSA, shopping, dining, entertainment, BWI, major commuter routes and so much more.

1338 Hill Born Dr, Hanover
$529,900
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ MDAA2156758 MLS
Two substantial gathering areas give this 2015 Parkside townhouse a welcome sense of separation. The large entry-level family room opens directly to the patio and works well for movie nights, recreation or a quieter place to settle in while conversation continues upstairs. A one-car garage and driveway handle on-site parking. One level up, the kitchen, dining and living areas open into one another. A generous island with an overhanging counter anchors the kitchen, while ample cabinetry and a separate built-in counter add workspace and storage. Whoever is cooking can stay part of what is happening around the island or in the adjoining rooms. A sliding glass door leads to the elevated deck, making it easy for dinner to move outside when the weather cooperates. A half bath completes this level. All three bedrooms and the laundry are together on the upper floor. The primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet and private bath with a double vanity, walk-in shower and separate bathtub. Two additional bedrooms share a full hall bath. The deck and lower patio extend two different levels of the home, and both look toward the grassy hill and trees beyond. The deck is ready for an open-air meal, while the patio gives the family room its own outdoor counterpart and a quieter spot to watch the seasons change. Parkside residents have use of the community clubhouse, fitness center, outdoor pool, playgrounds and paths. Arundel Mills covers shopping, dining, movies and entertainment in one familiar regional destination. On the fence about cooking dinner? Timbuktu Restaurant has long been a Hanover answer for Maryland crab cakes. When the better plan involves fresh air, Patapsco Valley State Park and the Grist Mill Trail bring wooded river-valley scenery into the rotation.

2707 Prospect Hill Dr, Hanover
$449,900
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ MDAA2155048 MLS
Welcome home to this Beautiful three-level End -Unit Colonial townhome in the highly sought-after community of Russett. Offering 3 bedrooms and 2.5 full baths, this interior-unit home combines timeless charm with modern updates throughout. The custom kitchen features beautiful countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ample cabinet space, making it perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The traditional floor plan is enhanced with contemporary finishes that create an inviting atmosphere from the moment you step inside. Tastefully refreshed bathrooms, laminate flooring, and new carpeting throughout provide a fresh, move-in-ready feel. The fully finished walk-out lower level offers a spacious fifth bedroom, a laundry area, and a beautifully refreshed second full bath, providing a home office, or recreation room. Conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and major routes. Schedule your private showing today!

3512 Hammerstone Rd, Laurel
$479,990
3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ MDAA2156802 MLS
Base Price Listing - The Baywood’s versatile, open home design offers a center island kitchen, with adjoining café and gathering space, perfect for entertaining friends & family. Choose to add a deck for outdoor living space. The third-floor features 2 bedrooms with private bathrooms. Enjoy a rear load 1-car garage, which has storage space for bikes & more. With its livability – the Baywood is the perfect place to call home. Watershed is an amenity rich community close to Fort Meade, BW Pkwy, Rt 32, Rt 198, and commuter trains.

1203 Bear Oak Ln, Laurel
$599,990
3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ MDAA2156794 MLS
Base price listing for our Isleton Floorplan, also available with Loft & Roof Terrace at an additional cost - This Isleton features 2,354sf of living space. The main level features a rear kitchen layout with upgraded cabinets, quartz counters, and gourmet appliance pkg. Beautiful flooring ties the Kitchen, Cafe, and Gathering room together. The Owner's Bedroom offers ample space and spa-like bath. The secondary bedrooms offer generous space/closets. Laundry is on bedroom level for convenience. Watershed is an amenity rich community close to Fort Meade, BW Pkwy, Rt 32, Rt 198, and commuter trains.

1102 Crested Wood Dr, Laurel
$596,000
3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ MDAA2152232 MLS
Welcome to Parkside community on Rolling Forest Dr. located by a major shopping district, Arundel Mills. This home is nestled at the more sought after locations in the community which backs against a wooded area. This spacious three-level townhome offers a flexible layout, stylish finishes, and thoughtful upgrades throughout. The main level is anchored by a beautifully designed kitchen featuring an oversized granite island with seating, rich espresso cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a custom tile backsplash, and generous counter and storage space. Hardwood flooring flows throughout the main level, connecting the kitchen with the surrounding living and dining areas while allowing each space to maintain its own distinct character. French doors lead to the rear deck, complete with a retractable awning for comfortable outdoor dining, entertaining, or relaxing in the shade. The finished lower level features engineered wood flooring throughout, a full bathroom, built-in surround sound, and versatile living space ideal for a recreation room, home office, guest area, or additional family room. The home also includes a two-car attached garage with built-in shelving for convenient storage and organization. The upper level offers three bedrooms, a full hallway bathroom, and a conveniently located same-level laundry room. The primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet, built in surround sound system and private en-suite bathroom with dual vanity sinks and a walk-in shower. The built-in surround sound is also installed on both the main and lower levels which adds to the home’s entertainment appeal. Residents of Parkside will enjoy outstanding amenities including an outdoor pool, playgrounds, clubhouse, fitness center, walking trails and recreation room.

2527 Rolling Forest Dr, Hanover
$534,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ MDAA2152942 MLS
Welcome to 1017 Hyde Park Dr, a charming two-story Dutch Colonial nestled in Annapolis, where classic character meets a convenient location. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,272 square feet of living space on a 5,971-square-foot lot, with a basement providing additional flexible space for storage, recreation, hobbies, or a home office. The inviting interior features a cozy fireplace and traditional Dutch Colonial character, creating a warm backdrop for everyday living and entertaining. With its versatile layout and established charm, this home offers an opportunity to personalize the space and make it your own. Enjoy an exceptional Annapolis location just minutes from the Severn River, Annapolis Maritime Museum, and downtown Annapolis. Spend the day exploring waterfront attractions, local shops, restaurants, and historic downtown, or enjoy easy access to the Eastern Shore and major commuter routes to Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and beyond. If you're looking for a home that combines architectural charm, flexible living space, and an outstanding Annapolis location, 1017 Hyde Park Dr is ready to welcome you. Come see all this home and location have to offer!

1017 Hyde Park Dr, Annapolis
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