Traveling through Maryland is kind of like moving around a patchwork quilt. One moment you’re driving on idyllic, tree-lined streets next to homes owned by friendly retirees, and the next, you’re making your way through a not-so-nice urban center, keeping your eyes forward and your windows firmly rolled up.
It’s a state of contrasts, where the peace of suburban and semi-rural living butts right up against the challenges — and excitement — of the big city. The statistics reflect this, too. Maryland’s crime rate is in flux; some areas are remarkably safe, while others grapple with higher incidents of property crime and even violent offenses.
While it isn’t always clear what defines a “safe” or “dangerous” city, getting informed is certainly a great first step toward finding a safe place to call home.
Maryland’s Safest Places
These lesser-known towns have low crime rates and rank high in community involvement, access to resources, and overall quality of life.
Hampstead
The prize of Carroll County, Hampstead has that quintessential small-town charm — friendly neighbors, plenty of local events, and a slow pace of life. The low crime rate might stem from how close-knit and vigilant this community is, with active neighborhood watch programs and a dedicated police force.
Residents certainly celebrate their own, too. Hampstead’s historic Main Street is lined with locally owned shops and restaurants, and the annual Hampstead Day festival shines a spotlight on its local artisans. If you’re looking for a place where everyone knows your name and looks out for each other, Hampstead might be the right fit.
Sykesville
Another highlight of Carroll County is Sykesville, which has a lovely blend of modern and historic elements. The restored Victorian-era buildings that line Main Street now house a well-curated collection of boutique shops, art galleries, and locally owned eateries. The historic Mill at Springfield is a similar store, now the hub of community events and farmers’ markets.
If you want to get to know your neighbors, come out to the annual Sykesville Craft Beer Festival or the Main Street trick-or-treat. And when you want to get away from it all, you can spend the day lounging along the banks of the Patapsco River or hiking on the miles of trails in Patapsco Valley State Park.
Maryland’s Not-So-Safe Cities
While these neighborhoods aren’t without their charms, living in them might be more trouble than it’s worth.
Baltimore
As Maryland’s largest city, it’s no surprise that Baltimore faces significant crime-related challenges. While not every block is dangerous, some grapple with very high rates of violent crime, including homicides and aggravated assaults.
The city is working diligently to address these issues, but it may not be the best place to live, especially if you have young children or haven’t lived in this environment before.
Salisbury
Salisbury, which is located on the Eastern Shore, has many parts with crime rates for both property crime and violent crime that surpass state and national averages. This problem is especially pronounced in poorer parts of town, where substance abuse is common.
Keeping Your Family Safe No Matter Where You Live
Don’t let talk of dangerous neighborhoods put you off of Maryland. While there are some high-profile, high-crime areas, there are also plenty of unsung pockets of safety and tranquility. This is pretty much true of any state or city, for that matter. There will always be places that are safer than average and some that are more dodgy.
The fact is that no area is completely immune to crime or accidents, even if they are statistically less likely in the place you’re living. As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Being proactive is the best way to keep your family safe no matter where you are. If the unexpected happens, having the resources to help yourself and your loved ones recover is paramount.
Contact the Criminal Defense Attorneys at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys in Maryland for Help Today
For more information, contact Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys to schedule a confidential consultation with a criminal defense attorney. Our team is available to assist clients in Lanham, Frederick, Rockville, and Waldorf.
We proudly serve Prince George’s County, Frederick County, Montgomery County, Charles County and the surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Lanham
4600 Forbes Blvd Ste 201 Lanham, MD 20706
(301) 262-7005
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys Frederick
25 E Patrick St #200 Frederick, MD 21701
(301) 381-1993
Available 24/7