A quiet suburban pocket with access to light rail and highways
When it comes to Baltimore Highlands, Maryland, it’s important to be specific—a distinction that’s not always necessary with other neighborhoods. “The Baltimore Highlands can get confusing because there are two of them: there’s one on the East Side, and then there’s this one that’s across the county line in the Halethorpe-Arbutus zip code,” says Charles Billig, owner of A.J. Billig and Company and lifelong Baltimore resident, who has sold real estate in the city for nearly 20 years. “It has access to the Light Rail and major commuter routes in the area, and it’s right by the Baltimore Washington International Airport commercial corridor.” Situated mainly among single-family residences, this suburban part of Baltimore Highlands offers a quieter profile compared to neighboring communities like Arbutus , Brooklyn Park , and Arbutus . While it may not be widely recognized outside the area, locals value the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy convenient access to commuter routes, making it a hidden gem for those seeking both tranquility and connectivity.
Detached homes and large lots set Baltimore Highlands apart
The compact square properties characteristic of Baltimore Highlands appeal to potential buyers primarily because they offer a distinct alternative to neighboring communities. “It’s main distinguishing feature is that it’s populated entirely with detached homes, not traditional Baltimore row houses,” Billig says. “Most of the homes date to the mid-20th century, and prices have gone up in recent years. Other areas, like Halethorpe and Arbutus, tend to be more highly regarded, though, so it hasn’t had as much of a price surge.” Colonial Revival cottages and raised ranch-style homes built in the mid-1960s sit side-by-side with large Modern Traditional houses built between 1980 and 2024. Many lots on the checkerboard streets are large enough to accommodate backyard pools, and nearly every home is within walking distance of the local elementary school and the train station. Prices for single-family homes can range from around $180,000 to $475,000, depending on the number of bedrooms, year built and size of the lot. Townhouses round out the inventory, typically ranging between $119,000 and $280,000.
Quick access to downtown Baltimore, light rail and major highways
Many of Baltimore’s most vital thoroughfares converge near the Baltimore Highlands. “That community is close to pretty much every major area highway,” Billig says. “It’s right next to Route 295 and Interstate 895, and from there, you can quickly get to the Beltway or Interstate 95.” Commuters to Baltimore may take the Light Rail from Baltimore Highlands Station, which reaches Downtown Baltimore in approximately 10 minutes. Baltimore/Washington International Airport is less than 5 miles south of the neighborhood. MedStar Harbor Hospital is the closest medical center, providing healthcare less than 4 miles north of Baltimore Highlands.
Students attend C-rated schools with nearby private options
Students may attend Baltimore County Public Schools, which receives a B score from Niche and is ranked the fourth-best school district in the Baltimore area. Baltimore Highlands Elementary School, which gets a C-plus, is within walking distance of most neighborhood homes. Students may proceed to Lansdowne Middle before attending Lansdowne High, both of which earn C grades. The high school offers 12 magnet programs in subjects such as biomedical science, carpentry and mass communications. Nearby private options include Mount Saint Joseph High, a Catholic college preparatory school that has served the community since 1876.
Grocery stores and restaurants line Patapsco and Annapolis roads
Along the Patapsco Road corridor, residents have access to grocery stores such as Aldi, LA Mart and Megamart Baltimore. For everyday essentials, the Walmart Supercenter at Lansdowne Station is the nearest big-box option. Just a short drive away is one of Central Maryland’s most popular restaurants, well known for its signature seafood dishes. “The neighborhood is very close to G&M Seafood, which is famous for its crabcakes,” Billig says. On Annapolis Road, which runs through the neighborhood, locals can stop by Honey’s Bar and Grill for a drink, pick up lunch at Three Bears Carry Out or grab a burger at Shannon’s Pub after work. The Highlands are also conveniently located near one of Maryland’s biggest shopping malls. “It’s right between Baltimore and Arundel Mills, basically,” Billig adds. “There’s lots of entertainment and shopping within reach.”
Outdoor spaces connect residents to the Patapsco River
Parks and recreation in Baltimore Highlands are closely tied to the Patapsco River, which shapes much of the area's outdoor activities. Residents can enjoy baseball at Unger’s Field, Northeast Highlands Park, or the field located behind the county government office. For those seeking scenic walks or river access, Southwest Area Park on Klunk Road provides a walking trail through lightly wooded riverfront, eventually leading to the Southwest Area Park boat ramp—a popular spot for locals to launch boats and spend time on the Patapsco River.
Entertainment options include casinos, concerts and ballgames
During baseball season, residents can ride the Light Rail to Camden Yards for Orioles games. Non-sports fans can get off at Camden Station and walk to the Inner Harbor for concerts at Power Plant Live! or Pier Six Pavilion. Residents also visit Maryland Live! Casino at Arundel Mills Mall for comedy, music and MMA events. For those who prefer to try their luck, the casino has 3,900 electronic games, 189 live table games and 52 poker tables.
![Christina von Claparede-Crola]()
Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola
![Bryan Allen]()
Photography Contributed By
Bryan Allen
