Aerial view of Frederick, Maryland

Best Places to Live in the US in 2022 Sponsored by: eXp RealtyeXp Realty

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

Frederick, MD is the #17 Best City to Live in the USA

Waterfront view of Frederick, Maryland
iStock.com/DenisTangneyJr
Frederick, MD
Quality of Life
Liv Score

644
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 54
Demographics 72
Economy 82
Education 65
Health 49
Housing 67
Infrastructure 40
Amenities 49

Why Frederick is one of the best cities to live in

Less than a one-hour drive from Gettysburg, Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Frederick, MD, the growing city of almost 75,000, is both steeped in history yet enviously trendy. Here, you’ll find the final resting place of Francis Scott Key, author of the national anthem, hundreds of years’ worth of Black history, and much more. Plus, the area is awash with public art and galleries, delicious cuisine and must-visit breweries, distilleries and wineries. And when it comes to job opportunities, Frederick delivers, making it one of the best places to live in the U.S. 

Everyone can find their niche here, as the city is home to solid life sciences, advanced manufacturing, technology, tourism and film sectors. And when it comes to outdoor activities, options abound (think camping, hiking, water recreation and more). 

What are Fredericks major industries and employers?

Major industries include life sciences, advanced manufacturing, technology, tourism and film. Additionally, Frederick is home to Fort Detrick, so a large military presence is here to bolster the economy. 

What are the major colleges and universities in Frederick?

Frederick Community College, Hood College & Mount St. Mary’s University – Frederick Campus.

What is the weather like in Frederick? 

Experience all four seasons – cold winters, fresh springs, toasty summers, and warm-to-moderate autumns. 

What is there to do outside in Frederick?

Hop on your two-wheeler and start pedaling along the Frederick History Bicycle Loop, where you can see much of the historic district and get some fresh air. 

Frederick, MD is Remote-Ready

What makes Frederick a great place for remote workers?

With high average wages, steady job growth and a sizeable presence of remote workers, Frederick is a great option for relocation. Frederick provides abundant resources for business owners and managers to help them create company and workplace environments that are remote-work friendly and aim to establish a healthy and happy workforce. At the statewide level, Maryland’s telework policy helps to encourage remote work with goals of healthier work-life balance, lighter urban traffic and fewer carbon emissions. 

What Locals Love in Frederick, MD

What is the best local bookstore in Frederick?

The Curious Iguana is the literary hub of Frederick. The store is both a community gathering space and a store on a mission, donating portions of its proceeds to international nonprofits. 

How do you spend a weekend in Frederick?

Walk around downtown with a friend, explore the unique shops and savor a cup of joe from Gravel & Grind.  

What can you do for free in Frederick?

Grab a canoe or kayak and float down the Monocacy River

Whats the best way to spend happy hour in Frederick?

Meet up for a beer and a slice of pizza (heaven, really) at Brewer’s Alley

Whats something only locals know about Frederick?

Head to Carroll Creek Amphitheater every Thursday from May through September for the city’s Alive @ 5, an epic outdoor happy hour. 

Is Frederick, MD a good place to live?

A strong economy paired with a vibrant arts scene and abundant opportunities for outdoor activities make Frederick a best place to live in Maryland.

Thinking of Moving to Frederick?

What is the Frederick, MD Real Estate Market Like?

Frederick, MD real estate has everything from 19th century townhomes near the city center to large suburban houses with backyard pools to the north. Homes for sale in Frederick, MD list higher than both the state and national averages. If you’re a young professional looking for small-city living not far from D.C., local real estate agents will most likely tell you to live in the tree-shaded residential areas in and around downtown Frederick, where you can find plenty of coffee shops, niche restaurants, and historical relics of Frederick’s past.

Quick Facts About Frederick, MD

Average Commute
18.97
Median Home Value
$348,490
Med. Household Income
$83,825
Total Population
81,252
Median Property Tax
$3,633

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