Everything You Need to Know About Living in Potomac, Maryland
Neighborhoods
Ever heard of Potomac, Maryland? It’s a suburban community located about 14 miles northwest of Washington, DC. Unlike many neighborhoods just outside of the Beltway, though, the Potomac neighborhood is known for its large houses with expansive lawns and slower pace of life — the perfect sanctuary for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without leaving it too far behind. Named after the famous Potomac River, Potomac has a quaint village center and is close to some of the most scenic river drives and hiking trails around.
Curious for more? Keep reading to brush up on everything you should know about living in Potomac, Maryland today!
The Lifestyle
In contrast to inner-ring suburbs like Bethesda or Silver Spring, where the housing stock has grown over many decades and therefore includes a range of sizes and prices, Potomac’s homes tend to be newer and much larger in scale. In other words: Potomac’s reputation for having palatial homes, with accompanying price tags that can go north of $8 million, is not exaggerated. But don’t just take our word for it — a drive through some of the subdivisions off of River Road, the main artery coming from the District, can be jaw-dropping. Many of the houses resemble castles and sit on large, well-groomed plots of land nestled off of idyllic streets. Fittingly, residents are attracted not only to the area’s housing stock and location, but also to its serenity.
➤ Looking for more neighborhood advice? Read these posts next:
Things To Do
People living in Potomac have easy access to some of the area’s best outdoor recreation — and in this area, that’s no small feat. The Billy Goat Trail at the Great Falls of Maryland is a particularly popular attraction for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The 4.7-mile hiking trail is divided into three sections, and hikers can learn more about the area’s history at the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center. The visitor center also sells tickets for the Great Falls Canal boat ride which takes visitors down the river on a tugboat pulled by mules on the shore.
Although Potomac, MD, is primarily a residential suburb, there are still many places to shop and dine. Potomac Village Shopping Center is the largest, most popular hub for locals running daytime errands or looking to enjoy a night on the town. The shopping center is designed as an outdoor mall with plenty of trees and quaint brick buildings that residents can stroll through. The Potomac neighborhood is also located near Westfield Montgomery Mall, where shoppers can find department and specialty stores.
Getting Around
Potomac’s allure may be found in its peaceful suburban location, but the city’s lively cultural activities are only 31 minutes away. Even more conveniently, the trip into DC is relatively seamless for individuals who work or play there. Interstate 270 and the Capital Beltway (I-495), both significant thoroughfares, connect the region to the nation’s capital. In addition, the Red Line of the Washington Metro is a quick and easy method of daily transit. Ultimately, the convenience of a short drive into the nation’s capital means that suburbanites can have the best of both worlds.
Already sold on Potomac? Check out our latest listings here to find your place.
The Schools
In addition to its public schools, Potomac has 15 private schools offering a range of educational options for families seeking an alternative to public education. These schools cater to a variety of needs and interests, such as religious education, specialized academic programs, and schools with smaller class sizes. The private schools in Potomac are known for their rigorous curricula, highly qualified educators, and well-equipped facilities.
While private schools can be more expensive than public schools, many families in Potomac find that the investment is worth it considering the personalized education their children receive. This combination of high-quality public and private schools positions Potomac as an ideal location for families seeking the best educational opportunities possible for their children.
Do you have questions about buying a home in Potomac, Maryland? Get in touch with our team directly by calling us at 202.280.2060 or emailing us at jsmira@jennsmira.com.
