Top 10 Maryland Zip Codes for Real Estate in 2024

Top 10 Maryland Zip Codes for Real Estate in 2024

10. Annapolis - 21401

Key Indicators: State capital with a robust government employment sector, tourism-driven economy, historical significance, affluent population, and high demand for waterfront properties.

Population:

Total Population: Approximately 36,000-40,000 people.

Population Growth Rate: Moderate growth, around 1-2% annually, reflecting steady demand for housing and the area's appeal.

Age Distribution:

Median Age: Around 42-44 years.

Children (under 18 years): Approximately 20-22%.

Adults (18-64 years): About 60-65%.

Seniors (65 years and over): Around 15-20%.

Household Information:

Number of Households: Approximately 16,000-18,000.

Average Household Size: Around 2.4-2.6 persons per household.

Family Households: A mix of family households, single-person households, and a notable population of retirees.

Income:

Median Household Income: Approximately $90,000-$100,000, reflecting a middle to upper-middle-income area.

Per Capita Income: Around $45,000-$50,000.

Educational Attainment:

High School Graduates: Nearly 95% of adults have at least a high school diploma.

Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Around 50-55% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, indicating a well-educated population.

Real Estate:

Owner-Occupied Housing Units: Around 65-70% of housing units are owner-occupied.

Median Home Value: Typically in the range of $450,000-$550,000.

Median Rent: Around $1,800-$2,200 per month for rental properties.

Vacancy Rate: Relatively low, around 4-5%, indicating steady demand for housing.

Employment and Economy:

Unemployment Rate: Generally low, around 3-4%.

Primary Industries: Residents are employed in government, particularly due to the proximity to state government offices, healthcare, education, tourism, and professional services. Annapolis is the state capital, and this plays a significant role in its economy.

Racial/Ethnic Composition:

White: Approximately 65-70%.

Black or African American: Around 20-25%.

Hispanic or Latino: About 7-10%.

Asian: Around 5%.

Crime Rate:

Moderate to low crime rates, contributing to the area’s desirability, particularly in more residential and suburban areas.

School Quality:

Public Schools: The area is served by the Anne Arundel County Public Schools system, with schools generally rated as good to excellent. Schools like Annapolis High School and others in the 21401 zip code contribute to the area’s appeal for families.

Summary:

The 21401 zip code in Annapolis, Maryland, is a desirable area characterized by a mix of historical charm and modern amenities. The area has a strong housing market, with relatively high property values and a well-educated population. Annapolis’ status as the state capital and its proximity to both Baltimore and Washington, D.C., provide stable employment opportunities and attract residents to the area.

For real estate investors, the 21401 zip code offers opportunities in both residential and rental properties. The area’s appeal to families, professionals, and retirees, along with steady demand for housing, suggests potential for property value appreciation and reliable rental income. The combination of historical significance, access to the Chesapeake Bay, and high quality of life further enhances its appeal as a prime location for real estate investment.

9. Rockville - 20850

Key Indicators: Major employment center in Montgomery County, diverse housing market, proximity to Washington D.C., excellent public transportation, and a thriving downtown.

Population:

Total Population: Approximately 50,000-55,000 people.

Population Growth Rate: Moderate growth, around 1.5-2.5% annually, reflecting ongoing development and demand in the area.

Age Distribution:

Median Age: Around 39-41 years.

Children (under 18 years): Approximately 22-25%.

Adults (18-64 years): About 60-65%.

Seniors (65 years and over): Around 15-18%.

Household Information:

Number of Households: Approximately 20,000-22,000.

Average Household Size: Around 2.5-2.7 persons per household.

Family Households: A large proportion are family households, with a mix of married couples and families with children.

Income:

Median Household Income: Approximately $110,000-$120,000, reflecting an affluent area.

Per Capita Income: Around $50,000-$55,000.

Educational Attainment:

High School Graduates: Nearly 95% of adults have at least a high school diploma.

Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Over 60-65% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, indicating a highly educated population.

Housing:

Owner-Occupied Housing Units: Around 60-65% of housing units are owner-occupied.

Median Home Value: Typically in the range of $500,000-$600,000.

Median Rent: Around $2,000-$2,400 per month for rental properties.

Vacancy Rate: Relatively low, around 4-5%, indicating steady demand for housing.

Employment and Economy:

Unemployment Rate: Generally low, around 3-4%.

Primary Industries: Residents are employed in various sectors, including technology, biotechnology, government, and professional services. Rockville is a key employment center in Montgomery County, with a mix of local businesses and commuters to Washington, D.C.

Racial/Ethnic Composition:

White: Approximately 50-55%.

Asian: Around 25-30%.

Black or African American: About 10-12%.

Hispanic or Latino: Around 10-12%.

Crime Rate:

Low crime rates, contributing to the area’s reputation as a safe and desirable place to live.

School Quality:

Public Schools: The area is served by the Montgomery County Public Schools system, which is highly rated. Schools in the 20850 zip code, such as Richard Montgomery High School, are particularly well-regarded, making the area attractive to families.

Summary:

The 20850 zip code in Rockville, Maryland, is a thriving and affluent area with a strong housing market characterized by high property values, a well-educated population, and a diverse community. The area’s strategic location as a key employment center in Montgomery County, coupled with its proximity to Washington, D.C., makes it particularly attractive for both residents and businesses.

For real estate investors, the 20850 zip code offers solid opportunities in both residential and rental properties. The steady demand for housing, combined with the area’s strong economic base, suggests potential for property value appreciation and reliable rental income. The area’s high quality of life, excellent schools, and low crime rates further enhance its appeal as a prime location for long-term real estate investment.

8. Lutherville-Timonium - 21093

Key Indicators: High median income, excellent schools, strong demand for suburban living, proximity to Baltimore, and a mix of residential and commercial real estate opportunities.

Population:

Total Population: Approximately 35,000-40,000 people.

Population Growth Rate: Stable to moderate growth, around 1-2% annually.

Age Distribution:

Median Age: Around 45-47 years.

Children (under 18 years): Approximately 20-22%.

Adults (18-64 years): About 55-60%.

Seniors (65 years and over): Around 18-22%.

Household Information:

Number of Households: Approximately 15,000-17,000.

Average Household Size: Around 2.5-2.7 persons per household.

Family Households: A significant proportion are family households, with many married couples and families.

Income:

Median Household Income: Approximately $110,000-$120,000, indicating a relatively affluent area.

Per Capita Income: Around $50,000-$55,000.

Educational Attainment:

High School Graduates: Nearly 95% of adults have at least a high school diploma.

Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Over 60-65% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, reflecting a highly educated population.

Housing:

Owner-Occupied Housing Units: Around 75-80% of housing units are owner-occupied.

Median Home Value: Typically in the range of $450,000-$550,000.

Median Rent: Around $1,800-$2,200 per month for rental properties.

Vacancy Rate: Relatively low, around 4-5%, indicating strong demand for housing.

Employment and Economy:

Unemployment Rate: Generally low, around 3-4%.

Primary Industries: Residents are often employed in healthcare, education, finance, and professional services. The area benefits from its proximity to Baltimore and major employment centers.

Racial/Ethnic Composition:

White: Approximately 75-80%.

Asian: Around 10-12%.

Black or African American: About 5-7%.

Hispanic or Latino: Around 3-5%.

Crime Rate:

Low crime rates, contributing to the area’s reputation as a safe and desirable place to live.

School Quality:

Public Schools: The area is served by the Baltimore County Public Schools system, with several highly-rated schools. Schools like Dulaney High School and others in the 21093 zip code are well-regarded, attracting families who prioritize education.

Summary:

The 21093 zip code in Lutherville-Timonium, Maryland, is an affluent and stable area with a strong housing market characterized by high homeownership rates, relatively high property values, and a well-educated population. The area’s proximity to Baltimore, along with its good schools, low crime rates, and high quality of life, make it particularly attractive for families and professionals.

For real estate investors, the 21093 zip code offers solid opportunities in both residential and rental properties. The steady demand for housing, combined with the area’s affluent demographics, suggests potential for property value appreciation and reliable rental income. The area’s stability and access to major job markets further enhance its appeal as a prime location for long-term real estate investment.

7. Frederick - 21701

Key Indicators: Rapidly growing population, expanding job market, revitalized downtown area, affordable housing relative to the region, and proximity to both Washington D.C. and Baltimore.

Population:

Total Population: Approximately 40,000-45,000 people.

Population Growth Rate: Moderate growth, around 1.5-2.5% annually, reflecting ongoing development in the area.

Age Distribution:

Median Age: Around 37-39 years.

Children (under 18 years): Approximately 22-25%.

Adults (18-64 years): About 60-65%.

Seniors (65 years and over): Around 15-18%.

Household Information:

Number of Households: Approximately 16,000-18,000.

Average Household Size: Around 2.5-2.7 persons per household.

Family Households: A mix of family households and single-person households, with a growing number of young professionals and families.

Income:

Median Household Income: Approximately $75,000-$85,000, reflecting a middle-income area with a mix of blue-collar and white-collar workers.

Per Capita Income: Around $35,000-$40,000.

Educational Attainment:

High School Graduates: Nearly 90-92% of adults have at least a high school diploma.

Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Around 40-45% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, indicating a fairly well-educated population.

Housing:

Owner-Occupied Housing Units: Around 55-60% of housing units are owner-occupied.

Median Home Value: Typically in the range of $350,000-$450,000.

Median Rent: Around $1,600-$1,900 per month for rental properties.

Vacancy Rate: Relatively low, around 5-6%, indicating steady demand for housing.

Employment and Economy:

Unemployment Rate: Generally low, around 4-5%.

Primary Industries: Residents are employed in a diverse range of industries including healthcare, education, government, and technology. Frederick has a growing economy with a mix of local businesses and commuters to Washington D.C. and Baltimore.

Racial/Ethnic Composition:

White: Approximately 60-65%.

Black or African American: Around 20-25%.

Hispanic or Latino: About 10-12%.

Asian: Around 5-7%.

Crime Rate:

Moderate crime rates, typical for suburban areas with a mix of urban and rural influences.

School Quality:

Public Schools: The area is served by the Frederick County Public Schools system, which is generally well-regarded. Schools in the 21701 zip code are considered good, contributing to the area’s appeal for families.

Summary:

The 21701 zip code in Frederick, Maryland, is a dynamic and growing area with a diverse population and a strong housing market. The area benefits from its proximity to major employment hubs in Washington D.C. and Baltimore, while also having a thriving local economy. The moderate home values and steady demand make it an attractive location for real estate investment, particularly in residential properties.

Frederick’s ongoing development, combined with its historical charm and good quality of life, make it appealing to a wide range of residents, from young professionals to families. For investors, the 21701 zip code offers opportunities in both homeownership and rental markets, with growth potential driven by the area’s continued expansion and rising popularity.

6. Catonsville - 21228

Key Indicators: Strong community feel, access to major highways, proximity to Baltimore, well-regarded schools, and increasing home values.

Population:

Total Population: Approximately 40,000-45,000 people.

Population Growth Rate: Stable to moderate growth, around 1-2% annually.

Age Distribution:

Median Age: Around 40-42 years.

Children (under 18 years): Approximately 20-25%.

Adults (18-64 years): About 60-65%.

Seniors (65 years and over): Around 15-20%.

Household Information:

Number of Households: Approximately 17,000-19,000.

Average Household Size: Around 2.5-2.7 persons per household.

Family Households: A mix of family households and single-person households, with a significant portion of married couples.

Income:

Median Household Income: Approximately $85,000-$95,000, reflecting a middle to upper-middle-income area.

Per Capita Income: Around $40,000-$45,000.

Educational Attainment:

High School Graduates: Nearly 90-92% of adults have at least a high school diploma.

Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Around 45-50% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, indicating a well-educated population.

Housing:

Owner-Occupied Housing Units: Around 70-75% of housing units are owner-occupied.

Median Home Value: Typically in the range of $300,000-$400,000.

Median Rent: Around $1,500-$1,800 per month for rental properties.

Vacancy Rate: Relatively low, around 4-5%, indicating steady demand for housing.

Employment and Economy:

Unemployment Rate: Generally low, around 3-4%.

Primary Industries: Residents are often employed in education, healthcare, public administration, and professional services. The area benefits from proximity to Baltimore and major employment centers.

Racial/Ethnic Composition:

White: Approximately 60-65%.

Black or African American: Around 25-30%.

Asian: About 5-8%.

Hispanic or Latino: Around 5-7%.

Crime Rate:

Moderate to low crime rates, making it a relatively safe community.

School Quality:

Public Schools: The area is served by the Baltimore County Public Schools system, with several schools in the area rated highly. Schools like Catonsville High School and others are well-regarded, attracting families to the area.

Summary:

The 21228 zip code in Catonsville, Maryland, is a stable and established community with a strong housing market characterized by moderate home values, high homeownership rates, and a well-educated population. The area’s proximity to Baltimore, along with its good schools and moderate crime rates, make it attractive for families and professionals.

For real estate investors, the 21228 zip code offers opportunities in both residential and rental properties. The moderate home values and steady demand make it a solid area for investment, particularly for those looking to invest in middle-income housing or rental properties. The area's stability and access to major job markets further enhance its appeal as a reliable investment location.

5. Ellicott City - 21043

Key Indicators: Historical charm combined with modern amenities, high educational attainment, strong demand for housing, and ongoing commercial development.

Population:

Total Population: Approximately 50,000-55,000 people.

Population Growth Rate: Moderate growth, around 1-2% annually, reflecting steady demand for housing in the area.

Age Distribution:

Median Age: Around 39-41 years.

Children (under 18 years): Approximately 22-25%.

Adults (18-64 years): About 60-65%.

Seniors (65 years and over): Around 15-18%.

Household Information:

Number of Households: Approximately 20,000-22,000.

Average Household Size: Around 2.6-2.8 persons per household.

Family Households: A large proportion, with many married couples and families.

Income:

Median Household Income: Approximately $110,000-$120,000, indicating a relatively affluent area.

Per Capita Income: Around $50,000-$55,000.

Educational Attainment:

High School Graduates: Nearly 95% of adults have at least a high school diploma.

Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Over 60-65% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, reflecting a highly educated population.

Housing:

Owner-Occupied Housing Units: Around 70-75% of housing units are owner-occupied.

Median Home Value: Typically in the range of $450,000-$550,000.

Median Rent: Around $2,800-$3,800 per month for rental properties.

Vacancy Rate: Relatively low, around 4-5%, indicating steady demand for housing.

Employment and Economy:

Unemployment Rate: Generally low, around 3-4%.

Primary Industries: Residents are often employed in professional services, education, healthcare, and technology sectors, with easy access to job markets in Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

Racial/Ethnic Composition:

White: Approximately 60-65%.

Asian: Around 20-25%.

Black or African American: About 10-12%.

Hispanic or Latino: Around 5-7%.

Crime Rate:

Low crime rates, contributing to the area’s desirability for families and professionals.

School Quality:

Public Schools: The area is served by the Howard County Public School System, which is highly rated. Schools in the 21043 zip code are known for their excellence, making the area particularly attractive to families.

Summary:

The 21043 zip code in Ellicott City is a desirable and growing area with a strong housing market, characterized by high household incomes, a well-educated population, and relatively high property values. The low vacancy rates and high owner-occupancy levels indicate a stable and appealing real estate market.

The presence of top-rated public schools, low crime rates, and access to major employment hubs in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., further enhance the attractiveness of this area for real estate investment. For investors, the 21043 zip code offers opportunities in both residential and commercial real estate, with strong demand for high-quality housing and services.

4. Potomac - 20854

Key Indicators: Very high median household income, luxury real estate market, proximity to top schools and Washington D.C., and stable property values.

Population:

Total Population: Approximately 45,000-50,000 people.

Population Growth Rate: Relatively stable, with slight growth around 1-2% annually, reflecting the area's mature and established nature.

Age Distribution:

Median Age: Around 47-49 years.

Children (under 18 years): Approximately 25%.

Adults (18-64 years): About 55-60%.

Seniors (65 years and over): Around 20%.

Household Information:

Number of Households: Approximately 15,000-18,000.

Average Household Size: Around 3.0 persons per household.

Family Households: A high percentage, with many affluent families and married couples.

Income:

Median Household Income: Approximately $200,000-$220,000, making it one of the wealthiest areas in the country.

Per Capita Income: Around $85,000-$100,000.

Educational Attainment:

High School Graduates: Nearly 98% of adults have at least a high school diploma.

Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Over 80% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, indicating an exceptionally well-educated population.

Housing:

Owner-Occupied Housing Units: Around 85-90% of housing units are owner-occupied.

Median Home Value: Typically in the range of $900,000-$1.5 million, with many homes exceeding $2 million.

Median Rent: Around $3,000-$4,000 per month for rental properties.

Vacancy Rate: Very low, typically under 3%, indicating strong demand for housing.

Employment and Economy:

Unemployment Rate: Generally very low, around 2-3%.

Primary Industries: Residents are often employed in high-paying sectors such as finance, law, medicine, technology, and government. Many residents commute to Washington D.C. for work.

Racial/Ethnic Composition:

White: Approximately 65-70%.

Asian: Around 15-20%.

Black or African American: About 5-7%.

Hispanic or Latino: Around 5-7%.

Crime Rate:

Very low crime rates, contributing to the area’s reputation as a safe and highly desirable place to live.

School Quality:

Public Schools: Part of the Montgomery County Public Schools system, which is among the top-rated in the nation. Schools in 20854, such as Churchill High School and others, are highly regarded and consistently rank among the best, attracting families who prioritize education.

Summary:

The 20854 zip code in Potomac, Maryland, is one of the wealthiest and most desirable areas in the state and the country. It is characterized by extremely high household incomes, a highly educated population, and very high property values. The housing market is dominated by luxury properties, and demand remains strong, as indicated by low vacancy rates.

The area’s proximity to Washington D.C., along with its excellent schools, low crime rates, and high quality of life, makes it particularly attractive to affluent families and professionals. For real estate investors, the 20854 zip code offers opportunities in high-end residential properties, though the market is competitive and requires significant capital investment. The area’s stability and prestige make it a strong long-term investment, particularly for luxury real estate.

3. Laurel - 20724

Key Indicators: Central location between Washington D.C. and Baltimore, diverse population, strong job market, and increasing residential development.

Population:

Total Population: Approximately 25,000-30,000 people.

Population Growth Rate: Moderate to strong growth, around 2-3% annually, driven by its strategic location between Washington D.C. and Baltimore.

Age Distribution:

Median Age: Around 34-36 years.

Children (under 18 years): Approximately 22-25%.

Adults (18-64 years): About 65-70%.

Seniors (65 years and over): Around 10-12%.

Household Information:

Number of Households: Approximately 10,000-12,000.

Average Household Size: Around 2.5-2.7 persons per household.

Family Households: A mix of family households and single-person households, with a significant number of young professionals and small families.

Income:

Median Household Income: Approximately $95,000-$105,000, reflecting a middle to upper-middle-income area.

Per Capita Income: Around $40,000-$45,000.

Educational Attainment:

High School Graduates: Nearly 90-92% of adults have at least a high school diploma.

Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Around 40-45% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, indicating a well-educated population with a mix of blue-collar and white-collar workers.

Housing:

Owner-Occupied Housing Units: Around 60-65% of housing units are owner-occupied.

Median Home Value: Typically in the range of $350,000-$450,000.

Median Rent: Around $1,700-$2,000 per month for rental properties.

Vacancy Rate: Relatively low, around 5-6%, reflecting steady demand for housing.

Employment and Economy:

Unemployment Rate: Generally low, around 4-5%.

Primary Industries: Residents are often employed in government jobs, education, healthcare, and technology sectors, benefiting from proximity to major employment hubs in Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Fort Meade.

Racial/Ethnic Composition:

White: Approximately 35-40%.

Black or African American: Around 40-45%.

Asian: About 10-15%.

Hispanic or Latino: Around 10-12%.

Crime Rate:

Moderate crime rates, typical for suburban areas with a diverse population. Crime rates are generally lower than the nearby urban centers.

School Quality:

Public Schools: Part of the Prince George's County Public Schools system, with a mix of highly-rated and average schools. School quality varies, which can influence housing decisions for families.

Summary:

The 20724 zip code in Laurel, Maryland, is characterized by moderate household incomes, a well-educated and diverse population, and a strong job market due to its central location between Washington D.C. and Baltimore. The housing market is stable with growing demand, particularly due to its appeal to young professionals and families looking for more affordable housing options compared to the nearby major cities.

The area’s moderate home values and rental rates, combined with ongoing population growth, make it an attractive location for real estate investment, especially in residential properties. The diversity of the area and its proximity to major employment centers are significant drivers of its real estate potential.

2. Ellicott City - 21042

Key Indicators: Affluent population, highly rated schools, low crime rates, and strong demand for both residential and commercial properties.

Population:

Total Population: Approximately 35,000-40,000 people.

Population Growth Rate: Moderate growth, around 1-2% annually.

Age Distribution:

Median Age: Around 44-46 years.

Children (under 18 years): Approximately 25-28%.

Adults (18-64 years): About 55-60%.

Seniors (65 years and over): Around 15-18%.

Household Information:

Number of Households: Approximately 12,000-15,000.

Average Household Size: Around 3.0 persons per household.

Family Households: A large proportion, with many married couples with children.

Income:

Median Household Income: Approximately $150,000-$160,000, reflecting a very affluent area.

Per Capita Income: Around $60,000-$70,000.

Educational Attainment:

High School Graduates: Nearly 95% of adults have at least a high school diploma.

Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Over 70% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, indicating a highly educated population.

Housing:

Owner-Occupied Housing Units: Around 85-90% of housing units are owner-occupied.

Median Home Value: Typically in the range of $600,000-$700,000, with some properties exceeding $1 million.

Median Rent: Around $2,000-$2,500 per month for rental properties.

Vacancy Rate: Very low, typically under 4%, indicating strong demand for housing.

Employment and Economy:

Unemployment Rate: Generally low, around 3% or lower.

Primary Industries: Residents are often employed in professional services, healthcare, education, and technology sectors, with easy access to job markets in Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

Racial/Ethnic Composition:

White: Approximately 60-65%.

Asian: Around 25-30%.

Black or African American: About 5-7%.

Hispanic or Latino: Around 3-5%.

Crime Rate:

Low crime rates, contributing to the area’s reputation as a safe and family-friendly community.

School Quality:

Public Schools: The area is served by the Howard County Public School System, which is highly rated. Schools in the 21042 zip code are known for their excellence, making the area particularly attractive to families.

Summary:

The 21042 zip code in Ellicott City is characterized by high household incomes, a well-educated population, and a strong housing market with high property values. The low vacancy rates and high owner-occupancy levels indicate a stable and desirable real estate market. The excellent public schools and low crime rates further enhance the attractiveness of this area, making it a prime location for real estate investment, particularly for those looking to invest in high-end residential properties.

1. Gaithersburg - 20878

Key Indicators: High median household income, strong job market in technology and biotech sectors, proximity to Washington D.C., excellent schools, and a growing population.

Population:

Total Population: Approximately 60,000-65,000 people.

Population Growth Rate: Moderate growth, around 1-2% annually.

Age Distribution:

Median Age: Around 38-40 years.

Children (under 18 years): Approximately 25%.

Adults (18-64 years): About 60-65%.

Seniors (65 years and over): Around 15%.

Household Information:

Number of Households: Approximately 22,000-25,000.

Average Household Size: Around 2.7 persons per household.

Family Households: A high percentage, with a significant portion being married couples with children.

Income:

Median Household Income: Approximately $120,000-$130,000, indicating a relatively affluent area.

Per Capita Income: Around $50,000-$55,000.

Educational Attainment:

High School Graduates: Nearly 95% of adults have at least a high school diploma.

Bachelor's Degree or Higher: Over 60-65% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, reflecting a highly educated population.

Housing:

Owner-Occupied Housing Units: Around 65-70% of housing units are owner-occupied.

Median Home Value: Typically in the range of $500,000-$600,000.

Median Rent: Around $1,800-$2,200 per month.

Vacancy Rate: Relatively low, around 5% or less, indicating strong demand for housing.

Employment and Economy:

Unemployment Rate: Generally low, around 3-4%.

Primary Industries: High concentration of jobs in technology, biotech, and professional services sectors, benefiting from proximity to Washington, D.C., and local business hubs.

Racial/Ethnic Composition:

White: Approximately 50-55%.

Asian: Around 25-30%.

Black or African American: About 10-15%.

Hispanic or Latino: Around 10-15%.

Crime Rate:

Generally low crime rates, contributing to the area's desirability for families and professionals.

School Quality:

Public Schools: Part of the highly regarded Montgomery County Public Schools, with several schools in the area rated very highly, attracting families seeking good educational opportunities for their children.

Summary:

These statistics suggest that 20878 is an affluent, well-educated, and growing area with strong demand for housing, making it a desirable location for real estate investment. The presence of high-paying jobs in the technology and biotech sectors, along with excellent schools and a relatively low crime rate, further enhances its appeal.

Methodology Behind Ranking:

The ranking of Maryland zip codes in this analysis is based on a comprehensive evaluation of several key demographic, economic, and social factors. These factors were chosen for their relevance to real estate investment potential, providing insight into the desirability, risks, and opportunities within each area. Here’s an overview of the methodology used:

1. Population Trends

Population Growth/Decline: Areas with steady or increasing population growth were ranked higher, as population growth often correlates with increased demand for housing and services. Conversely, areas with declining populations were ranked lower due to reduced demand.

Age Distribution: Zip codes with a balanced age distribution, particularly a strong working-age population, were favored. Areas with higher proportions of retirees or dependent populations were considered riskier for long-term investments.

2. Economic Indicators

Median Household Income: Higher median household income is a strong indicator of purchasing power and the ability to afford housing, leading to a higher ranking. Lower-income areas were ranked lower due to potential affordability issues and economic instability.

Per Capita Income: This measure was used to assess the overall wealth of the population within the zip code, influencing the area’s attractiveness for real estate investment.

Unemployment Rate: Areas with lower unemployment rates were ranked higher, as they suggest economic stability and a stronger job market, both of which are critical for sustaining demand for real estate.

Primary Industries: The diversity and strength of local industries were evaluated. Areas with a robust and varied economic base were ranked higher, while those reliant on declining industries were ranked lower.

3. Housing Market Indicators

Median Home Value: Higher home values generally indicate strong demand and a stable market, leading to a higher ranking. However, areas with excessively high home values were also evaluated for potential barriers to entry for investors.

Rental Rates: The median rental rate was considered to gauge the potential for rental income. Areas with competitive rental markets and higher rental rates were ranked higher.

Vacancy Rate: Low vacancy rates are a positive indicator of demand and were ranked higher. High vacancy rates, often indicative of economic distress or low demand, led to lower rankings.

4. Educational Attainment

High School Graduation Rate: Zip codes with higher educational attainment were favored, as education levels are often correlated with income levels and economic stability.

Bachelor’s Degree or Higher: The percentage of residents with higher education was considered, with higher rankings given to areas with a well-educated workforce, which is attractive for both businesses and residents.

5. Crime Rates

Crime Statistics: Areas with lower crime rates were ranked higher, as safety is a key concern for both residents and investors. High crime rates can lead to lower demand and declining property values, resulting in lower rankings.

6. School Quality

School Ratings: The quality of public schools was considered, with areas served by highly-rated schools receiving higher rankings. Good schools attract families, which can lead to stable or increasing property values.

7. Racial and Ethnic Diversity

Diversity Metrics: The racial and ethnic composition was analyzed to understand the demographic makeup of the area. While this factor was not a driver of rankings, it was considered in the context of cultural vibrancy and community dynamics.

8. Local Amenities and Infrastructure

Proximity to Employment Centers: Areas close to major employment centers or with good transportation links were ranked higher due to their attractiveness to commuters and businesses.

Access to Amenities: The availability of shopping, healthcare, parks, and other amenities was considered, with higher rankings for areas offering a better quality of life.

Data Sources and Limitations

The data for this analysis was sourced from publicly available resources such as the U.S. Census Bureau, local government reports, real estate market data, and crime statistics. While efforts were made to use the most recent and accurate data, it is important to note that real estate markets can be dynamic, and local conditions may change over time. Therefore, this ranking should be used as a guide rather than an absolute measure of investment potential.

Final Considerations

The rankings reflect a combination of quantitative data and qualitative judgment. Investors are encouraged to conduct further research and consider their own risk tolerance, investment goals, and the specific characteristics of each zip code when making real estate investment decisions.