From the historic central business district known as “Olde Towne” to the newer planned neighborhoods that emphasize pedestrian-friendliness and community closeness, to the retail and restaurants at the Rio shopping center, Gaithersburg has a lot to offer. It’s a diverse community that provides an affordable alternative to Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Potomac. Neighborhoods such as Downtown Crown and Kentlands are designed to offer a variety of housing and recreation within walking distance of bustling shops, restaurants and businesses. Gaithersburg is home to the National Institute of Standards and Technology and nearly two dozen biotech companies.
Quick Facts (Gaithersburg)
- Population
- 68,952
- Education
- High school graduate or higher: 88.9%
- Bachelor’s degree or higher: 53.4%
- Income
- Median household income: $104,544
- Housing
- Median value of owner-occupied housing units: $472,800
- Commute
- Mean travel time to work: 30.5 minutes
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
- Mean travel time to work: 30.5 minutes
Nearby, the Universities at Shady Grove in North Potomac is a draw for students and professionals. Over the past 50 years, North Potomac has transformed from farmland to a quiet suburban community.
Quick Facts (North Potomac)
- Population
- 23,790
- Education
- High school graduate or higher: 96%
- Bachelor’s degree or higher: 75.8%
- Income
- Median household income: $182,083
- Housing
- Median value of owner-occupied housing units: $770,000
- Commute
- Mean travel time to work: 34.2 minutes
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
- Mean travel time to work: 34.2 minutes
What locals say:
“[In North Potomac], our Quince Orchard Knolls neighborhood of well-kept family homes has delightful and friendly neighbors, and a park with tennis courts, a baseball field, basketball and playground equipment. Everyone walks dogs and kids on the streets, and it is so safe. There are community picnics, food trucks and neighborhood yard sales. When it snows, everyone pitches in to help those that can’t shovel. My children went to fabulous elementary, middle and high schools—among the county’s best.”
—Ray Bialek, owner of Bialek’s Music, a full-service talent agency in Rockville, and a retired musician
Gaithersburg
#1 Most Diverse City in America
WalletHub 2024
North Potomac
#2 Best Places to Live in Maryland
Niche 2024
#19 Best Suburbs to Live in America
Niche 2024
This story appears in Bethesda Magazine’s 2024-2025 Insider’s Guide.
