7 Secretly Amazing Places to Retire in Maryland

Choosing a place to retire is a big decision. Not only can it affect your overall health and quality of life, but it also determines what’s left in your pockets. While Maryland lacks the tropical weather of Florida, it makes up for it in scenic beauty, senior-focused healthcare services, and excellent retirement taxes. If you’re considering moving to the Northeast, check out these seven secretly amazing places to retire in Maryland.

1. Parole

The census-designated place of Parole is in Anne Arundel County and is a suburb of Annapolis. This town has a population of around 18,000 and has been voted as one of the best places to live in Maryland. Parole is a mix of urban and suburban, with many retirees and young professionals. Residents can enjoy many beautiful parks, shops, and restaurants within a short drive or walk from their homes. While the median home value is above the national average, Parole has all the conveniences a retiree would need, including a strong sense of community.

2. South Kensington

Located in Montgomery County, South Kensington is a census-designated place near the Washington D.C. border. Along with being close to some of the best museums in the world, South Kensington is also one of the best places to live in the state. Like Parole, this town is a great mix of urban and suburban, and there is always something to do or see. This diverse DC suburb has abundant outdoor recreation, a small-town feel, and a central location near everything you might need.

3. Ocean City

This Maryland resort town sits between the and the Isle of Wight Bay, where it’s known for its miles of sandy beaches, outdoor recreation, and rich history. While this town might be too lively for some, it can be the right blend of laidback beach vibes and fun things to keep you entertained. It has more of a beachy urban feel, but there is a strong retiree community in Ocean City. It’s also more affordable than some of the suburbs of DC or Baltimore, and it’s a great town to kick back and relax during your retirement.

4. Bethesda

Bethesda is an unincorporated community in southern Montgomery County, just northwest of Washington D.C. While it features a higher cost of living, Bethesda offers everything one would need for a perfect retirement, from a central location to many fun things to do and places to visit. Bethesda is a beautiful suburban community and one of the best places to retire in Maryland. It’s one of the more expensive areas in the state, but it’s worth it for its well-developed center and laid-back environment. Bethesda is also a walker’s paradise, with everything within walking distance, including Metro access.

5. Colesville

The smaller community of Colesville is somewhat of a stark contrast to Bethesda’s urban environment. This town of around 15,000 people offers a sparse suburban feel with quiet neighborhoods surrounded by abundant nature and wildlife. Colesville is still close enough to DC for the culture and activities while far enough away to escape the traffic and congestion. It’s a diverse community with a large retirement population that values nature, quiet living, and outdoor recreation.

6. Ocean Pines

This residential community is in Worcester County along , featuring nine miles of waterfront property. Not only is Ocean Pines one of the best places to retire in Maryland, it’s one of the top retirement destinations in the country. The town has more of a rural feel and a lower cost of living than many other places in the state. It also features a safe environment and welcoming community, especially for seniors. Residents can spend their days going to the pool, walking around one of the many parks, or playing outdoor sports like golf and tennis.

7. West Ocean City

Another small yet growing community in Worcester County, West Ocean City is on the west side of . It’s on the mainland across from Ocean City and is one of the best places to live for those who want to be close to the lively beach lifestyle while far enough away to experience peace and quiet. West Ocean City offers a laidback suburban feel with plentiful shops and restaurants. It’s a safe and welcoming community in a central location with many amenities and outdoor recreation, especially if you love the beach.

A Recap of the 7 Secretly Amazing Places to Retire in Maryland