Frederick, MDBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Frederick enchants residents with a well-preserved downtown, diverse cultural offerings, top-rated schools and a thriving arts scene. The city’s proximity to Washington, D.C., and relative affordability offer a perfect blend of small-town charm and urban amenities.
More About Moving to Maryland
Frederick, MD, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Located about an hour west of Baltimore, Frederick, MD, is a charming city nestled near Catoctin Mountain. Frederick is one the best places to live in the U.S. due to its picturesque mountain views, access to local vineyards and compelling history. It serves as a final resting place for hundreds who passed in the Civil War and played a pivotal role in the trajectory of the war in the battle of Monocacy (all of which can be learned about by visiting its many museums and memorial sites).
And it’s clear that Frederick’s future is just as compelling as its past – serving as the home to higher-education institutions like Hood College and Frederick Community College, as well as a highly rated public school system.
Residents can also enjoy a small-town atmosphere in Frederick but easily hop over to the big city thanks to its accessible public transportation system. The MARC commuter rail train goes right through town, and it can connect you directly with AMTRAK service to Union Station in Washington, D.C., which will take roughly an hour and 40 minutes.
Frederick, MD Quality of Life LivScore
Frederick, MD Top Categories
Transportation
Education
Economy
Frederick ranks highest for transportation, education and economy.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Frederick, MD
You’ll get a mix of every kind of weather living in Frederick — cold, snowy winters and humid summers. The average highs and lows are 87°F and 65°F (summer) and 45°F and 27°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Frederick is 24 inches. While the city receives some snowfall during the winter, it’s not typically as heavy or frequent as in other parts of the Northeast.
The average annual rainfall in Frederick is 43 inches, with the wettest months being May, June and July.
Frederick averages 206 sunny days a year.
Visit Gambrill State Park, where you can treat yourself to some stunning views of the Shenandoah Mountains as well as hike, bike, horseback ride, or even reserve a space at the park’s quaint tea room.
Frederick Weather
206 days
Average Annual Sun
43 inches
Average Annual Rain
24 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Frederick, MD
Civil War history buffs will appreciate Monocacy National Battlefield, which is often nicknamed “The battle that saved Washington, D.C.“
Take your creative kiddo to the Delaplaine Arts Center, where they can take one of the 250-plus classes offered each year. Be sure to also walk through any of their seven art galleries on site.
Cacique Fine Spanish & Mexican Cuisine provides a gorgeous ambiance and tasty, unique menu options, like roasted duck, platanos maduros and brochettes of jumbo shrimp.
Gravel & Grind serves up the best cup of joe in town and has an incredible selection of bicycles for sale (including stock from Brooklyn Bicycle Co. and Surly Bikes).
The Local and State Economy in Frederick, MD
Major industries include biotechnology and life sciences, information technology and manufacturing. Additionally, Frederick is home to Fort Detrick, so a significant military presence is here to bolster the economy. AstraZeneca, RoosterBio and the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research are other top employers.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Frederick is 6%.
Yes, Maryland has a state income tax.
Frederick is home to several major health care providers, including Frederick Health and Frederick Regional Health System. In addition, Frederick Health Hospital is rated high performing in half a dozen procedures and conditions.
There are several colleges and universities in Frederick, MD, including Frederick Community College, Hood College and Mount St. Mary’s University-Frederick Campus.
Quick Facts About Frederick, MD
- Median Household Income
- $83,825
- Median Home Value
- $348,490
- Average State Property Tax
- $3,633
- Total Population
- 81,252
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,352
- Average Commute
- 18.97 minutes
Frederick is one the best places to live in the U.S. due to its solid performance in all categories, particularly when it comes to diverse amenities, education and health care. It’s one of only two Maryland cities to make the list. Learn how to best experience Frederick, or consider other great places to live in the Northeast. Another good resource as you consider a move: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
