Rockville MD: Shop, Play, Live

Rockville, MD boasts a population of just over 60,000, making it one of the larger suburbs of the Washington, DC/Baltimore Metropolitan area. Just 31 minutes northwest of DC via the Clara Barton Parkway and 45 minutes southwest of Baltimore, this densely populated area is perfectly situated for new homeowners who work inside one of these major cities.

Who Lives in Rockville, MD?

The average resident in Rockville is 39 years old and married with children. He or she works within the fields of business, finance, management, sales, or office administration. Rockville is a white-collar town whose residents typically boast 4-year college degrees. 

The average annual household income in Rockville is $97,667, and the average home costs $440,000. The cost of living here is higher than the national average; on a scale of 1 to 100, Rockville rates a 154. Commute times in this area are slightly higher as well -- running around 31 minutes. 

The majority of Rockville's population is Caucasian, with Black and Asian demographics making up most of the remainder. Rent here is relatively expensive, beginning at around $1,300 for a studio apartment and ranging up to $2,800 for a three-bedroom home. 

What's the Culture in Rockville, MD?

Rockville is an thriving, bustling area that offers an abundance of places to shop. Most are located along the famous Rockville Pike. There's something for everyone is this urban area, including:

• Rockville Town Square -- Rockville's Town Square is an all-inclusive shopping and dining experience coupled with all the best of Rockville living. You'll find the local library located here, along with an ice rink. You can enjoy fun dining at Buffalo Wild Wings or stop off for a drink with the guys at Finnegan's Irish Pub. But if it's shopping that tops your list, you'll find an eclectic assortment of fun shops and retailers that include Ten Thousand Villages, Toy Kingdom, Knits Etc, and Sunday Kitchen and Bath.
• Federal Plaza -- Federal Plaza on East Jefferson Street is a 248,000 square foot shopping complex that offers several large anchor retailers, including TJ Maxx, Ross Dress for Less, and Trader Joe's, along with a wealth of smaller retailers, service providers and eateries.
• Rockville City Center -- A smallish strip mall located along Hungerford Drive, Rockville City Center is a good place to catch a quick lunch if you're in the mood for Popeye's chicken or Mama Wok's Taiwanese Cuisine. 
• Fallsgrove Village Center -- Fallsgrove Village Center, on Shady Grove Road features a wealth of places to eat, including Chipotle Mexican Grill, Jerry's Subs and Pizza, and Mama Lucia. You can get your nails done here at the Mirage Hair Salon or pick up supplies for your pet at Pet Valu.

How's the Quality of Life in Rockville MD?

The living is easy in Rockville, MD, especially for those who work in the city. Major employers in the area include the Montgomery County Board of Education, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Lockheed Martin Information Systems, and Booz Allen Hamilton. High annual salaries and manageable commute times make this area a real estate hot spot for those who want the convenience of steady work without having to live inside the city. 

There are still plenty of natural spaces nearby, including John Creek, Lake Frank, and Rock Creek Trail for those wishing to get back to nature, and many of the homes in this area include large, sprawling lawns and excellent curb appeal. 

Rockville is also home to an abundance of parks and recreational opportunities for families with small children. Rockville has over 16 local parks that feature everything from play and picnic grounds to ball fields and basketball courts. You'll also find local community centers, nature centers, and theaters that serve the area. 

What is Rockville's Best Known For?

Rockville is known locally as home to some of the largest technology and bio-med companies in the area. Jobs here are abundant for those with advanced college degrees. Yet, the area hasn't lost its residential appeal as a feel-good home town. It began life as a farming community and the county seat of Montgomery County, MD and grew, thanks in part to the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, into a bustling metropolis of shopping, parks, playgrounds, and transportation. It's easy to get around in this town, thanks to the Metro bus and Metro rail that serve the area. 

When it's time to begin your new home search in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area, be sure to ask your realtor about the many advantages to settling down in scenic Rockville. Friendly community spirit, tons of great shopping, a wealth of quick and fine eateries and plenty of opportunity to get outside make this charming suburban town the perfect choice for those who work or travel between Washington, Baltimore, or Columbia.