Finding the most affordable places to live in Maryland is challenging even if you're a native. State-wide, Maryland has a median home value of $370,300. When you add in maintenance costs and property taxes, it can be difficult for many to buy and own a home. Because of that, we scoured the data to find the most affordable cities in Maryland, looking at median home prices, cost of living, and other factors to find your best options.
Looking for the most affordable places in Maryland is a start, but you'll save even more money by working with a great agent. The top Maryland real estate agents know the local market and where to find pockets of more affordable homes. They can also help negotiate a better price when you do find your dream home.
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With a Clever agent, you'll get instant MLS alerts on affordable Maryland homes, on-demand showings, and an expert negotiator on your side. Even better? Eligible home buyers get a check for up to 0.5% of the purchase price back after closing!
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Ready to learn more about the most affordable places in Maryland? These are our top picks.
1. Cumberland
Cumberland is a business and commercial center that serves West Virginia. This place is known as “Where the South Begins” since the United States Census Bureau places it below the Mason-Dixon Line.
According to Zillow, the median sale price for homes in this area is $79,500, while the median listing price is $99,900. Properties in Cumberland appreciated 3.5% in 2018 while experts forecast a 1.6% home value appreciation rate within the next year.
This market is leaning toward the buyer’s side, helping buyers secure hefty bargains. The affordability and stable home value appreciation rates make it a great place to put down your roots when moving to Maryland.
2. Hagerstown
This area is home to several historic Civil War sites such as the South Mountain State Battlefield. The Hagerstown community is a cultural hotspot for galleries and museums.
The median sale price for Hagerstown home is $120,100 while $149,900 is the median listing price. During 2018, homes in this housing market appreciated 3.1%, while experts expect a 1.6% rise in home value within the next year.
Currently, Hagerstown is a seller’s market which can make it difficult to secure great deals. However, this place is a great option for home buyers looking for an affordable cultural hotspot in the Old Line State.
Finding a home to buy here is easier with a local agent! With Clever, you'll find a great Maryland realtor who can help with your home search.
3. Greenbelt
Greenbelt is an affordable suburb less than 15 miles away from Washington, D.C. Its convenient access to all major highways makes it easy for their residents to travel to all surrounding major metro areas.
Greenbelt’s median home sale price is $219,200, while $188,900 is the median home value. Home values have appreciated 6.6% in 2018, while experts forecast a 5.1% appreciation within the next year.
This housing market is leaning toward the seller’s side. While you may not be able to secure a hefty discount, Greenbelt’s stable home value appreciation rates and accessibility make it a great option for home buyers looking to protect their investment.
4. Frederick
The area of Frederick is home to a mix of art, culture, historic, and shopping amenities. The Museum of Civil War Medicine and Monocacy National Battlefield are some historic sites in the area.
Frederick’s median sale price is $285,100, while the median listing price is $341,000. Homes in this market appreciated 3.7% in 2018, while experts expect a 1.4% appreciation rate within the next year.
Currently, it’s a seller’s market in Frederick. While market conditions may prevent you from finding a bargain, this area is a great option for home buyers looking for an affordable place that offers a diverse mix of amenities.
» FIND: Top Real Estate Agents in Maryland
5. Hampstead
While Hampstead isn’t the most affordable place in our list, it’s a great suburb for young professionals and families. Its low crime rate and great schools are some of the top features cited by its residents.
The median sale price in Hampstead is $253,600 while the median listing price is $340,000. Home values in this area appreciated 3.2% in 2018, while in 2019, experts expect a fall in home values of 0.7%. The housing market is leaning toward the seller’s side.
While the potential fall in home value and market conditions might make you think twice about buying a home in this area, you should consider putting down your roots in this place for its family-friendly features.
How to find affordable homes in Maryland
Whether you want to live in a bustling Maryland metro area or a tranquil small town, there's plenty to love in Maryland. Working with a local real estate agent is the best way to find the most affordable places to live in Maryland.
Ready to start house hunting? Clever is a free service that can match you with the best realtors in Maryland. And, when you buy with a Clever partner agent, you could get 0.5% of your purchase price back as a check after closing. On a $300,000 home, that's an extra $1,500 back in your pocket. That's real money!