About 373,177 people live in Southern Maryland, based on statistics shared in the 2020 Census. In addition, it's believed that in 2023, 162,674 people moved to Maryland, proving the state is growing with lots of eager souls looking to make the region their home.
If you're one of these people who dream of living in Maryland, you've come to the right blog. Our team at Villa Builders has shared why moving to Maryland is a good idea and a few ideal living locations in Maryland worth exploring.
We hope this Maryland relocation guide will help you decide where to settle down in this gem of a region, home to scenic waterfronts and small-town charm, and why you should remodel with us. You can trust our expert recommendations for living in Southern Maryland.
Before discussing the best Southern Maryland towns for residential living, you should know a little more about the cost of living in this region. This is especially true if you plan to buy and remodel a home that's caught your eye.
Based on the latest findings, Maryland's overall cost of living is 16% higher than the US average, with housing, unfortunately, being the most significant contributor since home prices average about 44% above the national average.
However, even though the cost of living is higher, many towns in Southern Maryland offer better value and more space than nearby D.C. suburbs, making it a popular choice for commuters, retirees, and growing families alike.
With the cost of living details out of the way, we can dive into a few of the best Southern Maryland towns to live in and why, based on our experience remodeling in these places:
If you're looking for a charming waterfront town that is the county seat of St. Mary's County, you should consider Leonardtown. This beautiful location is known for its walkable downtown, public art, and vibrant community events. When you move to this town, you'll have access to Leonardtown Wharf Park and nearby wineries, offering homeowners an interesting blend of rural calm and local culture. It's quite something to behold.
Those looking for the best of both worlds – and let's be honest, who isn't? – should have a look at homes in La Plata. This town is situated in Charles County and sits right on the 301 corridor. That's right; this means it's perfect for commuters who have to head into Northern Virginia or D.C. day in and day out.
Despite being near the 301, La Plata offers residents a park-filled environment and a relaxed atmosphere. You can also expect incredible dining and shopping opportunities, and if you have children, you'll love that this town offers a great school system.
You can't go wrong with moving to a sailing town in Southern Maryland if you love being out on the water. One of the best sailing towns is Solomons Island, which has a coastal vibe and incredible waterfront dining. Besides being a picturesque location ideally suited to foodies, it's also home to a scenic boardwalk, the Calvert Marine Museum, and lots of boutique shops. It's perfect for those drawn to life by the water.
If you love the idea of living in a vacation town year-round that is famous for its bayside boardwalk, stunning public beaches, and relaxed community spirit, consider moving to Chesapeake Beach. This small but lively vacation locale is only about an hour's drive from D.C. and has everything you could need to enjoy a happy existence alone or with your family.
Sometimes, you don't want a resort town or a lively sailing town to be where you live, and there is nothing wrong with that. There are other choices in Southern Maryland, like Huntingtown, which is a family-oriented semi-rural small town in Calvert County. This town is one of the top picks for parents, thanks to its peaceful neighborhoods and highly rated schools. It's also conveniently located for easy commuting. What more could you want?
First-time homebuyers will love Waldorf. This is one of the largest communities in Charles County and is a suburban hub. Unlike smaller communities like Huntington, Waldorf offers residents several modern amenities, restaurants, shops, schools, and loads of recreational fun. With big houses for sale and large lots, it's an idea for those who want to build new additions or remodel to create a space they love.
One of Maryland's oldest towns, Port Tobacco, offers country living with quick access to D.C. It is nestled among rolling hills and historic sites, making it a great place to enjoy the quiet, scenic beauty while staying connected to modern life. It might just be the place you call home in the near future.
As of early 2025, Maryland's housing market remains competitive, with prices rising nearly 5% year-over-year. That makes remodeling an existing home an appealing option for long-term residents.
Villa Builders helps homeowners in Southern Maryland transform their current homes to suit their ever-evolving needs and preferences better. No matter what type of remodel you're interested in, we can help you reimagine an existing home into something that better suits your stylistic preferences and lifestyle, no matter where you decide to live in Southern Maryland.
If you've found your ideal location but your home doesn't quite fit your lifestyle, remodeling is the perfect solution, and Villa Builders is the trusted choice in the region.
With deep knowledge of Maryland suburbs, established Maryland neighborhoods, and tight-knit Maryland communities, our team provides personalized remodeling solutions that match your home to your life – not the other way around.
Whether you've settled into one of the best towns in Southern Maryland or you're planning a move, we offer the local insight, design expertise, and build quality needed to bring your renovation dreams to fruition. You can contact us here to learn more about where we can remodel, what services we offer, and their associated costs.