Reasons to Move to Baltimore, MD
Published by Chris Townsend
Reasons to Move to Baltimore, MD
Founded in 1729, Baltimore is rich in more than just history. The city center and the surrounding neighborhoods have so much to offer residents – from walkable communities to rejuvenated downtowns teeming with unique architecture and an expanding number of locally owned shops and restaurants. With its perfect blend of modern and historic attractions, friendly people, energetic nightlife, and gorgeous architecture, it’s no wonder Baltimore is nicknamed “Charm City.”
If you’re considering making a big move, you’re not alone. The area is home to nearly three million people, and the population keeps growing yearly. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of life in the city, or a more relaxed, small-town feel, Baltimore and the surrounding communities have something to offer everyone. More people leaving DC move to Baltimore than any other city. Still unsure if Baltimore is right for you? Check out our list of 7 reasons to move to Baltimore, MD:
Diverse Neighborhoods
The third most populous county has a neighborhood for nearly every type of lifestyle. From the waterfront neighborhoods of Middle River and Dundalk, to the urban amenities in Owings Mills and Townson, there is something for everyone. Would you prefer something more rural? Try Monkton. Or, to relish rich history, consider Catonsville.
Baltimore County’s neighborhoods are positioned close to each other, making it effortless for residents to enjoy them all. For example, you can kayak at the crack of dawn in the Gunpowder River, hit up the mall in the afternoon, and head down to catch a game on the Metro in the evening. Revitalization efforts are also being worked on throughout the area, meaning the city will only get more exciting and diverse over the next few years.
Family-Friendly
With top-rated educational facilities, affordable housing, and numerous kid-friendly activities, Baltimore is an excellent place to settle down and start a family. The area is very walkable and offers a remarkable National Aquarium and numerous other museums, science centers, and family-friendly restaurants. The many historical sites throughout the city offer learning opportunities for the whole family, transporting you back in time. There is also no shortage of green spaces, with West Shore Park in Inner Harbor that features the famous Walter Sondheim Fountain and Pierce’s Park. This interactive park offers musical instruments, climbable structures, and even a tunnel through a living willow tree!
Aside from Inner Harbor, many other family-friendly neighborhoods exist, including Belair-Edison, a diverse and inviting community snuggled within hundreds of acres of parkland.
Chesapeake Bay Cuisine
Baltimore is your place if you love shellfish, crab, or seafood. Whether you’re carving lobster rolls, oysters, or an entire seafood feast, the Chesapeake Bay cuisine has you covered. Aside from fresh, delicious seafood, food enthusiasts can enjoy award-winning chefs and restaurants throughout Charm City, a thriving craft beer and cocktail scene, and tasty food festivals year-round.
For instance, Mount Vernon’s unique dining scene offers Spanish, Afghani, and New American food, among other options. When the sun sets, the cocktail bars, dive bars, gay bars, and taprooms come alive with live music and dancing.
Four Seasons
When you move to Baltimore, you’ll enjoy a full four seasons – something that cannot be said for many other places in the country. In the springtime, head over to Sherwood Gardens to see one of the most renowned tulip gardens in North America, along with cherry blossoms, wisteria, dogwoods, magnolias, old English boxwoods, azaleas, and so much more. You can also stroll at the Mt. Washington Arboretum or Clyburn Arboretum's mansion, trails, and landscaped gardens.
Summer months bring in numerous festivals, including the Chesapeake Crab and Beer Festival, Vegan Soulfest, Latinofest, Baltimore Moonrise Festival, and Pride. The region has some of its greatest summer festivals. While it can get somewhat cold in the winter, the climate is moderate compared to many other areas of the country. This is when indoor entertainment thrives, including theater, music, and limited exhibitions.
Attractions and Entertainment
Baltimore is full of monuments, markets, museums, and numerous other sights for locals and tourists. You’ll never run out of things to do when you move. Some of the top attractions you’ll certainly want to check out during your first few months in the city include:
- Lexington Market: Founded in 1782, this is not your average market. It is the oldest market in the country, offering a range of foods and wares you won’t find anywhere else. Located right, Lexington Market is just steps away from Camden Yards (home to the Baltimore Orioles).
- National Aquarium: One of the most prominent attractions in the city, the National Aquarium has a wide variety of animals, from tarantulas to dolphins. It also offers special discounted days when you can visit for a much cheaper rate than the regular price.
- Geppis Entertainment Museum: This museum features many comic books, both historical and new. It is a great place to visit for anyone who loves superheroes or comic books.
- Edgar Allen Poe House: If you’re a fan of Edgar Allen Poe’s literary works, you’ll want to check out his home. Preserved as a historical landmark, his home is now a museum that you can visit.
- Fells Point is one of the city's most historical neighborhoods, complete with cobblestone streets, the oldest bar in the city, and so much more!
- Power Plant Live!: Located in downtown Baltimore, Power Plant Live! Offers a blend of nightclubs and bars for those 21 and over. Live music performances and bull riding are the norm here.
- M&T Bank Stadium: Home to the Baltimore Ravens, this stadium is beautiful. You can catch a game or, in the summer, purchase a ticket to one of the many large-scale music concerts they host.
- Hippodrome Theatre: For theater lovers, the Hippodrome Theatre offers traveling Broadway plays, musicals, and various other shows.
Artscape
A yearly art festival in the Mount Royal neighborhood of Baltimore, Artscape is so integral to the culture in this city that it deserves its own section. This annual event began in 1982 and, since then, has become the largest free arts festival in the United States. Yes, you heard that right – FREE. If art interests you, you’ll love Artscape, and, best of all, it’s a cultural immersion that won’t hurt your bank account.
Artscape is a three-day event, attracting over 350,000 people across all ages and backgrounds to the fourteen square blocks around the Maryland Institute College of Arts (MICA) campus where it is held. From fashion designers and fine artists to venues packed with film, theater, opera, and dance, you’ll enjoy art and music worldwide. Over the years, the event has boasted acts such as Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Miguel, Robin Thicke, and Joan Jett. If you move to Baltimore, you’ll get to enjoy this legendary event every year right in the comfort of your backyard.
Proximity to Washington, DC
About an hour and a half drive or 45 minutes on the commuter train, you’ll land in our nation’s capital. Easy and convenience access to three different airports – Dulles International Airport in Washington D.C., BWI Airport in Hanover Maryland, and the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport – makes domestic and international travel nearly effortless.=
Have you decided that Baltimore, Maryland, is the place for you? We can help! Eliminate all the hassle and stress of a big move by hiring professional movers to handle the job for you. Contact us today to speak with a moving specialist and receive your FREE, no-obligation moving estimate.