Let the numbers do the talking.
Bethesda, MD vs Hagerstown, MD
Bethesda, MD vs Hagerstown, MD: What the data shows
Bethesda, MD is in Bethesda, MD while Hagerstown, MD is in Hagerstown, MD — both in the same state. On home prices, Hagerstown, MD is the more affordable option at $230,400 median — $711,100 less than Bethesda, MD's $941,500. WYLT rates Bethesda, MD as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Hagerstown, MD as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Bethesda, MD has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Hagerstown, MD has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Bethesda, MD has Low flood risk and Hagerstown, MD has Low flood risk.
Bethesda, MD is the more walkable neighborhood. Bethesda, MD scores 16/100 (car-dependent) versus Hagerstown, MD's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Bethesda, MD has the higher school rating — Bethesda, MD rates 7.3/10 and Hagerstown, MD rates 6.6/10.
| Category | Bethesda, MD | Hagerstown, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $942K | $230K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $986 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $150K ✓ Higher income | $57K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 16/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 40/100 ✓ Better transit | 1/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | 1/100 |
| Commute | 25 min ✓ Shorter commute | 95 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.6/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesTech professionalsDining enthusiasts | Families with school prioritiesAffordability seekersCommuters willing to drive |
Bottom line
For families or individuals looking for affordable housing and a quiet community, Hagerstown, MD may be a suitable choice despite its limitations. However, for those prioritizing high-quality schools, a shorter commute, and a wider range of amenities, Bethesda, MD might be a better fit if they can afford the higher cost of living. Ultimately, it comes down to which trade-offs you're willing to make.
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