The Guide to Living in Annapolis, Maryland

In the heart of the Chesapeake Bay, a historic town with a legendary past

Create your next home in Annapolis, Maryland. Contact a trusted design professional today.

ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND

The History of Annapolis, Maryland

Established in 1649 as the town of Providence, Annapolis, Maryland’s rich history stems back to the very foundation of America itself.

Located on the Chesapeake Bay on the mouth of the Severn River, Annapolis, Maryland was named in honor of Princess Anne of Denmark and Norway and has since earned its nickname as the Crowl Jewel of the Mid-Atlantic.

For a period between 1783 to 1784, Annapolis, Maryland was the Capitol of the United States, with the iconic Maryland State House serving as the site of the ratification of the Treaty of Paris.

Home to the United States Naval Academy and the International Sail Boat Show, Annapolis, Maryland offers charming cobblestone streets, iconic examples of Georgian architecture, and access to year-round water sporting, all within an hour of both Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland.

Like many waterfront communities along the historic Chesapeake Bay — including Maryland’s Eastern Shore — blue crabs and maritime traditions prevail.

Annapolis, Maryland benefits from a vibrant and walkable downtown, while also claiming some of the Washington Metropolitan Area's most gracious estates located just outside the historic city center.

Magothy River Modern of Arnold, Maryland. Image courtesy of David Burroughs.

THE HOMES COLLECTION

The Homes of Annapolis, Maryland

Explore a curated collection of the most iconic homes in Annapolis, Maryland and greater Anne Arundel County

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Browse homes for sale in Annapolis, Maryland presented by Sotheby’s International Realty

ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND

“Annapolis, Maryland is a treasure trove of American architecture, replete with important 18th, 19th and 20th century buildings.”

— Angela Healy, AIA

The United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Image courtesy of Terry Granger.

TRAVEL GUIDE

A Weekend in Annapolis, Maryland

Featuring historic charm and stunning waterfront vistas, Annapolis, Maryland is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city living.

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ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore common questions about life in Annapolis, Maryland, including the best restaurants, neighborhoods, and more.

IS ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND A GOOD PLACE TO LIVE?

Annapolis, Maryland is one of the most desirable towns in the Mid-Atlantic. As the state capital of Maryland, Annapolis, Maryland offers a vibrant historic district and a diversity of housing options, including unique waterfront homes.

WHAT ARE THE BEST NEIGHBORHOODS IN ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND?

For those who seek a waterfront lifestyle, Annapolis, Maryland offers great neighborhoods. For those who seek a convenience, walkable experience, historic downtown Annapolis offers easy access to dining and entertainment, with its historic row homes offering unmatched charm. In nearby Eastport, a more neighborhood feel emerges, offering a great blend of convenience and space for those seeking a more traditional neighborhood experience. Finally, the Sherwood Forest neighborhood offers a classic suburban experience with a charming neighborhood clubhouse. Other desirable neighborhoods in Annapolis, Maryland include Arundel on the Bay.

WHAT IS THE SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND?

Residents of Annapolis, Maryland attend Anne Arundel County Public Schools. Annapolis, Maryland is also home to several important colleges and universities, including St. John’s College and the United Sates Naval Academy.

HOW FAR IS ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND TO WASHINGTON, D.C.?

Annapolis, Maryland is roughly 31 miles from downtown Washington, D.C. There is no Amtrak or MARC train access to Annapolis, Maryland from Washington, D.C.

HOW MANY PEOPLE LIVE IN ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND?

According to the 2020 Census data, Annapolis, Maryland has a population of 41,212 people, including a median age of 40 and a median household income of $92,015.

WHAT ARE THE BEST PLACES TO BUY FURNITURE AND HOME DECOR IN ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND?

Annapolis, Maryland features plenty of options to buy furniture and home decor, including Revival Home & Gifts and Be Home.

WHAT IS THE PROPERTY TAX RATE FOR ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND?

Property taxes for Annapolis, Maryland are broken out into three separate segments. For 2024, the county rate is $0.586 and the state rate is $0.112, and the municipal rate is $0.738. In total, property taxes in Annapolis, Maryland come to a total of $1.436 per $100 of assessed value. Note, property tax rates for Annapolis, Maryland are different than property tax rates for Anne Arundel County.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BUY A HOME IN ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND?

The median sale price for a single family home in Annapolis, Maryland is $485,000 which is about 60% higher than the national average of $308,980. Ready to buy the home of your dreams? Browse homes for sale in Annapolis, Maryland presented by Sotheby’s International Realty.

WHAT ARE THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND?

Annapolis, Maryland is home to many great restaurants. On Main Street in historic downtown Annapolis, Maryland, Preserve offers a unique twist on upscale American cuisine with a variety of pickled and fermented fare. For breakfast, Chick and Ruths Delly offers a classic greasy spoon diner experience. Finally, The Choptank located on the famous “Ego Alley” offers classic Maryland fish and crab house experience.