Situated northwest of Washington lies the peaceful urban-suburban City of Gaithersburg, Maryland. As a part of Montgomery County, Gaithersburg has an extremely clean, safe, and diverse community and is the ninth-largest location in the state as well as a suburb and primary city of the DC–VA–MD–WV Metropolitan Statistical Area. Along with an exceptional quality of life, Gaithersburg, MD is known for its rich history, beautifully green surroundings, award-winning neighborhoods, and ranking high among the nation for ethnic, economic, and social-class diversity. Gaithersburg provides a quiet and family-friendly atmosphere whereas an array of shopping, tasty restaurants, metros stations, museums, hotels, and even a state park are made available!
Beginning as a small settlement for agriculture, Gaithersburg was settled back in 1765 and was formerly known as “Log Town”. The community was later incorporated as a town in 1878, then as a city in 1968. Over the years, Gaithersburg has been called home for several notable people such as the American Wrestler Shane McMahon, and American football player Stefon Diggs. Gaithersburg is rather photogenic for the big screen considering that films like Body of Lies and Borat were shot here. Nonetheless, Gaithersburg retains a peaceful, historical, and inclusive setting while still providing excellent proximity to the big cities like Washington and Baltimore.
Gaithersburg, MD Population & Demographics
Gaithersburg is recognized for having its own government that is highly responsive to the citizens’ needs. The city is also nestled in the middle of the most successful economic zones in the state. According to the United States Census, Gaithersburg has a population of 69,657 which has experienced a 16.2% increase in the last decade. The median age of residents in Gaithersburg sits at 36.5 and their homes have an average of 2.73 people per household. Speaking of this, the median household income in Gaithersburg is $91,845 which is slightly above the state average of $87,063. 88.9% of people have attained their high school diploma or higher, and 53.5% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. With a .8% job increase in the last year, the 6.1% unemployed in Gaithersburg should benefit.
The racial demographics in Gaithersburg are incredibly diverse with whites taking up 33.1% of the population, Hispanics making up 25.3%, Asians at 20.3%, and blacks at 17.8%. Regarding the gender makeup in Gaithersburg, 51.5% of the city’s population is female which leaves 48.5% for the males.
With an A- safety score on Crimegrade, Gaithersburg is a very safe place to live in and raise a family. In the unlikely case of dangerous or threatening events, all 1,300 sworn officers of the Montgomery County Police Department will have your back covered.
Cost of Living in Gaithersburg, MD
A family of four in Montgomery County should be making around $104,098 according to the Economic Policy Institute. Gaithersburg has a cost of living that’s 40% higher than the national average– however, the healthcare and utility expenses in Gaithersburg are affordable given they are at and below the national average. Gaithersburg has a sales tax of 6% and an income tax of 8% which certainly beats the U.S. average of 13.29%. As stated by Redfin, Gaithersburg has a median house price of $451,000, and the average monthly rent sits at $1,799 on Rentcafe in case signing a lease is your plan of action.
Gaithersburg, MD Everyday Expenses:
Below are the everyday living expenses in Gaithersburg, MD provided by Numbeo.
- Basic utilities— $150.00
- Internet— $71.67
- Gallon of milk— $3.33
- Carton of eggs— $2.81
- Gas— $2.40
Gaithersburg, MD Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Gaithersburg, MD
The small-town-feeling city of Gaithersburg is packed with neighborhoods that provide lively nightlife yet small-town family values. The eastern end of the town is the most historical and is home to the historic central business district, “Olde Towne Plaza”. You’ll also have close access to the City Hall, Lakeforest Mall, Bohrer Park, and the Montgomery County Fairgrounds. The western side of the city has wealthier and even award-winning neighborhoods including the Kentland community, the Lakelands Community, and the popular shopping district, Rio. Here, you’ll also be near the Watkins Mill Town Center.
There is roughly a 21-mile distance from Gaithersburg to Washington which will take you south on the road for about 34 minutes. A bit north from here, the distance from Gaithersburg to Baltimore is 45 miles northeast which takes approximately 50 minutes. Looking to settle in this city? You can browse the web for Gaithersburg, MD homes for sale.
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Gaithersburg, MD Climate & Weather
Gaithersburg experiences cold and snowy winters with lows of 25 degrees Fahrenheit whereas the summers are green and warm with highs of 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This weather makes for a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy the nearby state park! You’ll need your umbrella during the 42 inches of annual rainfall in Gaithersburg, and your sunglasses will do their job during the 202 days of sunshine. Gaithersburg also has 21 inches of snowfall during the year. Considering the least comfortable season is winter, the best months to visit Gaithersburg, MD are in May, June, and September.
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Things to Do in Gaithersburg, MD
When you’re in need of spending cash, the RIO Washingtonian Center in Gaithersburg has 760,000-square-feet of restaurants, stores, entertainment, and even a water park! Check out some more fun things in Gaithersburg below!
Seneca Creek State Park
Comprised of over 6,300 acres, the Seneca Creek State Park has 50 miles of biking, hiking, and horseback riding trails that take you through a lovely scene of natural habitats. This park would be the perfect place to go to get outdoor exercise or relax in the tranquilizing presence of nature.
11950 Clopper Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, +1 301-924-2127
Montgomery County Agricultural Fair
The Montgomery County Fair is a can’t miss event! The grounds feature wonderful parades, a shopping area, and Fourth of July fireworks whereas the fair has carnival rides, animals, food, agricultural shows and exhibitions, and plenty more entertainment!
Perry Pkwy, Gaithersburg, MD 20877, +1 301-926-3100
Additional Attractions in Gaithersburg, MD
- Bohrer Park
- RIO Washingtonian Center Playground
- Dog Exercise Area at Green Park
- Constitution Gardens Park
- International Latitude Observatory
- Gaithersburg Community Museum
All 854 acres of 25 parks and 13 recreation facilities in Gaithersburg are maintained by the Gaithersburg, MD Parks, Recreation & Culture system. If you’re curious about what’s going on in the area, you can find Gaithersburg, MD news here.
Gaithersburg, MD Restaurants
Coastal Flats
This relaxed and contemporary American seafood restaurant in Gaithersburg, MD features fresh fish and classic seaside meals. It also serves cuisine steak, pasta, fine wine, and well-loved dishes like lobster rolls and short smoked salmon!
135 Crown Park Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, +1 301-869-8800
Hershey’s Restaurant
Serving everything from tasty burgers to meaty ribs, the saloon-style Hershey’s Restaurant opened back in 1969 and offers large portions of excellent American fare and outdoor seating. You can stop by for a weekend brunch while enjoying the live music and karaoke!
17030 Oakmont Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20877, +1-301-948-9893
Jobs in Gaithersburg, MD
If you’re hoping to maintain a career, the average base salary in Gaithersburg is $77,000 and the average hourly rate sits at $31.00 according to Payscale. Some of the most popular employers include AstraZeneca, Leidos, and the National Institute of Stands and Technology whereas the top popular positions in Gaithersburg consist of sales associates, physicians, and associate directors. Gaithersburg is also home to Lockheed Martin Information Systems, the Global Services business area, the Sodexo headquarters, and the United States Army Reserve Legal Command. Hoping to find employment? Try to search the web for open jobs in and around Gaithersburg, MD.
Gaithersburg, MD Schools
Served by the Montgomery County Public Schools, this school system in Gaithersburg is said to be one of the best in the nation. A few of the public schools in Gaithersburg include Brown Station Elementary School and Lakelands Park Middle School.
If you’re on the lookout for a new novel or need some quiet studying time, the Gaithersburg Library is open all 7 days of the week!
Gaithersburg, MD Statistics and Information
Gaithersburg, MD of Montgomery County has a land area of 10.34 square miles and a population density of 6,737 people per mile. The city of Gaithersburg has an elevation of 348 feet and zip codes ranging from 20877 to 20879, as well as 20886. With the area code of 240, Gaithersburg, MD is within the Eastern Central Time Zone. If air travel will be needed, the Dulles International Airport is 30 miles southwest of Gaithersburg.
Gaithersburg, MD Map
Take a look at even more things to do with this map of Gaithersburg, MD below!
Pros and Cons of Living in Gaithersburg, MD
- Pro: Enjoy the extremely high rate of racial diversity and cultural immersion!
- Pro: Take advantage of the decent commute time to the bigger cities of Washington and Baltimore!
- Con: Expect a higher cost of living compared to the national average.
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