The small urban community of Penn North is located just south of Druid Hill Park in west Baltimore. Although it was once in disrepair, today Penn North is experiencing a renaissance as new residents move in. The neighborhood has benefited from partnerships with the Maryland Community Health Initiative and from incentives provided by the city to increase rental and ownership. Named Maryland’s first Black Arts and Entertainment district in 2019, Penn North is making a name for itself as a rising star in Charm City. “A lot of people buy there because they feel that the area is about to change,” says Realtor Joshua Savage with Keller Williams, who was born and raised in Baltimore. “It’s been through some tough times, but people believe in the future of the neighborhood.”
Get Downtown in no time from Penn North via one of the many routes.
Friendly residents of Penn North are always looking out for each other.
A lone single family home on a block of rowhomes in Penn North.
Penn North is just a short drive from Downtown Baltimore.
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The Penn North Metro is conveniently located in the middle of the neighborhood.
The Baltimore Metro
A defining feature of this neighborhood is its proximity to the Penn-North Metro station, which connects the community to the Johns Hopkins Hospital and shopping destination Owings Mills. Residents can catch the light rail from nearby Station North to Baltimore Washington International Airport, a trip which takes roughly one hour. North Avenue converges with Interstate 83, linking Penn North to Baltimore’s famous Inner Harbor.
Traditional Baltimore row houses
Penn North is comprised mostly of traditional Baltimore row houses featuring short front stoops and narrow fenced-in backyards. “The houses are mostly from the 1880s and on,” says Francis O’Neill, a lifelong Baltimore resident and reference librarian at the Maryland Center for History and Culture. Greek Revival and Federal styles are the most common, with neat rows of windows adorning the street-facing walls, although Queen Anne features like rounded towers are sometimes present on end units. Many of the homes require heavy renovations, with prices for some properties beginning as low as $20,000 and rising to $61,000. For move-in ready houses, prospective buyers can expect prices starting around $100,000 and rising as high as $235,000.
You'll find plenty of traditional brick rowhomes in Penn North.
Row-homes come in conditions from burned out shells, to rehabbed units in Penn North.
Older brick rowhomes will often have refreshed coats of paint to spruce up the facade.
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Penn North has plenty of options of homes for a Baltimore neighborhood.
Between Mondawmin and Charles Village
The closest grocery store to Penn North is the Shoppers at Mondawmin Mall, though many residents prefer to make the 3-mile drive around Druid Hill Park to Giant Food in Green Spring Tower Square. Mondawnmin is the closest shopping destination, featuring over 100 retailers and several casual eateries. Directly in the neighborhood, Sugar Hill Tavern is an understated watering hole where locals gather to cheer on the Orioles and enjoy cold drinks, while Round Belly Deli across the street serves some of Maryland’s most underrated barbecue in an intimate setting. “People mostly go to Charles Village for restaurants since it’s so close by,” Savage says. Charles Village Pub, a casual eatery with simple fare and cold brews, has maintained a loyal customer base in the area for over 35 years.
Hitting the books in Baltimore
Children in Penn North are zoned to begin their education at Mount Royal Elementary/Middle School, which Niche scores a B-minus and where they may participate in a new coding program that focuses on early exposure to basic computer science concepts. Students then apply to their choice of the city’s public high schools, including the nearby Bard High School Early College Baltimore, which earns a C-plus. Here, students can earn a tuition-free associate’s degree in addition to their high school diploma.
Mount Royal Elementary/Middle School servers students from Pre-K through the 8th grade.
Hanlon Park_Bard HS _Building 1
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Druid Hill Park
Penn North is just south of Druid Hill Park, one of Charm City’s oldest green spaces. The park’s south side features a reservoir that is ringed by the East Coast Greenway, a hiking trail that winds around the shore under the watchful eye of the historic Moorish Tower. There are also several baseball fields, basketball and tennis courts and a public swimming pool. The park’s north end is occupied by the Maryland Zoo, where tourists and locals can wander through the award-winning Penguin Coast exhibit.
There are green space and benches for locals to enjoy the space at Rawlings Conservatory.
Play a round of disc golf at the well-maintained Druid Hill Park course.
Druid Hill Park has numerous basketball courts for residents and visitors.
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Baltimore’s first Black arts and entertainment district
Penn North still retains some measure of its history as Baltimore’s first Black arts and entertainment district. The Arch Social Club has served the community for over 100 years and is the last remaining venue for live jazz on this historic commercial strip. The Pennsylvania Avenue Branch of the Pratt Free Library offers story time programming for adults and children and computer literacy courses. At Station North, 1.6 miles east of the neighborhood, residents can jam to local bands at The Crown or catch the latest blockbuster at the historic Charles Theatre.
The Arch Social Clubhouse is the last remaining venue for live entertainment in Penn North.
Culturally significant murals can be found throughout Penn North.
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Progress in Penn North
While Penn North’s overall CAP Index crime score is 5 out of 10, just above the national average of 4, the scores for robbery and homicide climb to 8 and 9 out of 10, respectively. However, as of March of 2024 the neighborhood has gone a full year without a homicide. In addition, the Penn North Recovery Center has served as the community's only outpatient addiction treatment provider in the area since 1993. The center serves more than 600 people every day.
Indulge in authentic Caribbean cooking at Brudah's Caribbean Kitchen in Baltimore's Penn North.
A set of colorful rowhomes overlook the busy North Avenue corridor.
Even some newer rowhomes can be found in Penn North like this blue and grey triplex.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall
23 min drive
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North Ave & Druid Hill Ave Wb
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North Ave & Pennsylvania Ave Wb
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Pennsylvania Ave & Retreat St Nb
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Cloverdale Rd & Mcculloh St
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Pennsylvania Ave & Fulton Ave Nb
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Fulton Ave & Flora St Nb
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Fulton Ave & Reisterstown Rd Fs Nb
Reviews
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to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Penn North
US
Homicide
4
4
Sexual Assault
9
4
Assault with Weapon
8
4
Robbery
7
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
5
4
Crime Score
9
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Penn North Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Penn North, Baltimore sell after 58 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Penn North, Baltimore over the last 12 months is $36,750, down 43% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Spacious and move-in ready two bedroom brick townhome.Brandnew roof, paint, flooring and appliances. This is ready for your primary residence or a rental property.
SHORT SALE — PRICED TO SELL! Listed at just $199,000, this fully renovated, income-producing duplex presents an exceptional investment opportunity. The lender has already approved a short sale at $204,000, allowing buyers who prioritize a faster settlement to submit at the approved price. Buyers looking to maximize value may offer the $199,000 list price, subject to lender
Welcome to this 3-level townhouse that offers a blend of classic character and modern potential, making it an excellent investment opportunity! Built in 1900, this home features a timeless brick façade that exudes warmth. Inside, you'll find three spacious bedrooms and a full bathroom equipped with a tub shower, perfect for relaxation. The eat-in kitchen with custom-built wood cabinet and granite
2625 Francis is in the Penn North neighborhood anchored by the historic Druid Hill Park. This home sits directly across from the newly renovated Parkview Recreation Center, that opened in June 2026, and conveniently located near the Jones Falls Trail and Expressway (Interstate 83). This newly renovated home offers a charming 3 bedroom, 1.5 bathrooms with timeless features. The rooms are
ONLINE AUCTION: This auction takes place on the Ashland Auction Group website bidding platform. Bidding begins 8/26/2026, 10:00 AM. Bidding ends 8/28/2026, 12:50 PM. The list price is the suggested opening bid. Deposit: $7,500.This two-story porch-front townhouse is located in the Penn North neighborhood of Baltimore City. Residents can enjoy the nearby attractions and facilities such as
Builder-Owner Renovation | Catch the Wave on Baltimore's Next Breakout BlockThe Seller is the Builder who oversaw every detail of this top-to-bottom renovation from the ground up. Ask any question about what's behind the walls; you'll get a straight answer. This is a rare opportunity to purchase a turnkey, end-of-group home directly from the owner who built it.This 5-bedroom,
Welcome to 2532 Druid Hill Avenue, a beautifully updated Baltimore rowhome where historic character and modern comfort come together. With its classic brick exterior, soaring ceilings, and abundant natural light, this home offers warmth, space, and timeless appeal. Inside, the open main level creates an inviting environment for everyday living, whether you're hosting friends, enjoying family
ONLINE AUCTION: Bidding begins 8/24/2026, 10:00 AM. Bidding ends 8/26/2026, 11:10 AM. This auction takes place on the Ashland Auction Group Bidding Platform. List Price is Suggested Opening Bid. Deposit: $5,000.This two-story townhouse is located in the Penn North neighborhood of Baltimore City. Residents can enjoy the nearby facilities and amenities such as the Druid Hill Park, Coppin
Investment opportunity with tenant in place. This is a long term tenant with a 20+ yr history in the home. Currently on a M2M lease. Ideally, new owner would be willing to keep such a long term tenant in place. The home does need updating.
***************NEW LOWER PRICE. *************Investor Opportunity! 2BR/1BA rowhome priced to sell quickly and offering tremendous upside potential. Lowest-priced property on the block! Ideal for renovation and resale or long-term rental income. Property requires total renovation and is being sold as-is. Conveniently located near historic Pennsylvania Ave, Bolton Hill, Reservoir Hill, and
This very well kept townhome features lots of space for a first time home buyer or for a new investor who is looking to add more into their portfolio. The main level features a living room with a large window that allows for natural lighting, separate dining room and a very spacious kitchen with a door that leads to your concrete patio. Upstairs has two very spacious bedrooms with closets and one
Gorgeous starter for first time homebuyers with lots to offer! Also, great pickup for investors to add to portfolio. Property is close to the park, shopping, schools and universities, entertainment, medical services, and much more, Floor plan includes half bath on main level with sizable space for family and guests in living and dining areas. Vinyl flooring throughout is easy to maintain. Enjoy
Property Id: 1770456 PRIVATE ROOM AVAILABLE Monthly Rent 1BR with Shared Bath - $650/month 1BR with Private Bath - $850/month Security Deposit - Same as rent Lease Terms Single Occupancy (1 Person) +$150/month for Double Occupancy Month-to-Month Lease No Smoking No Pets Utilities Included Water Electricity Air
Landlords are offering 1/2 off the first months rent and 3 months of FREE WiFi. Welcome to 2532 Druid Hill Avenue, a beautifully updated Baltimore rowhome where historic character and modern comfort come together. With its classic brick exterior, soaring ceilings, and abundant natural light, this home offers warmth, space, and timeless appeal. Inside, the open main level creates an inviting
August End-of-Summer Move-In Special!New tenants who move in during August will receive 50% OFF their deposit on ANY room!To qualify:Present this special offer at the time of your showing.Pay the first month's rent and 50% of the security deposit at move-in. Restrictions Apply.**Private ROOM Available**Monthly Rent:1BR with PRIVATE BATH -
Cozy and comfortable 3 bedroom row with some recent updates. Entrance is open with spacious living and dining area. Half bath on first floor for guests. Unfinished basement provides significant storage. On the exterior, enjoy deck and landscaped yard for relaxation and entertainment. Located close to Druid Hill Park and the Maryland Zoo bordering Reservoir Hill. Laminate floors throughout.
Great house with a spacious living room and great kitchen layout. This 2 Bedroom + Den townhouse also boasts a great backyard.Housing vouchers welcome.
Amazing opportunity to lease this recently renovated rowhome. Section 8 Vouchers are welcome. A minimum credit score of 580, a satisfactory background check, and a clean rental history are required. This property features stainless steel appliances, freshly painted walls, hardwood floors, and ceramic tile in the kitchen and bath. There are 3 spacious bedrooms and 1 full bath, with a new water
Experience elevated city living at 2534 McCulloh St!A beautifully renovated historic rowhome located in Baltimore's sought-after Reservoir Hill neighborhood. This spacious 4-bedroom, 2 full bath, 2 half bath residence blends timeless Baltimore charm with modern luxury across more than 2,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space.From the moment you enter, you'll be welcomed by
Spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in Penn North with bright rooms and stainless steel appliances. The property includes a clean, dry basement for storage, a private fenced yard, and water is included in the lease. Located on a calm block with excellent walk and biking scores and easy access to mass transit systems. Voucher holders are welcomed; management offers FLEX rent
Welcome to our property listing! We're delighted to present this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom row home located near Druid Hill Park, home of the Baltimore Zoo and Rawlings Conservatory as well as Mondawmin Mall and Shoppers Food Market . This property is a commuters dream with a 80 walk score, a 83 transit score and a 69 bike score. The Metro Subway, LightRail Link and buses 85,
Completely renovated! A newly renovated home and to make yours alone! New flooring, appliances, freshly painted walls and a completely finished basement! Call me today !FIRST AMERICAN's renovated kitchens display high-end amenities and beautiful craftsmanship. Ceramic tile floors, fine wood cabinetry, attractive countertops, modern fixtures, and like- new appliances are just a few of the reasons
August End-of-Summer Move-In Special!New tenants who move in during August will receive 50% OFF their deposit on ANY room!To qualify:Present this special offer at the time of your showing.Pay the first month's rent and 50% of the security deposit at move-in. Restrictions Apply.**Private ROOM Available**Monthly Rent:1BR with SHARED BATH -
Discover comfortable living at 2540 Francis St, Baltimore, MD. This spacious 1,100 sq ft residential townhome features 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, perfect for families or roommates. Enjoy the charm of hardwood flooring and the comfort of air conditioning throughout the home. The property includes convenient laundry facilities, enhancing your daily routine. Located in a vibrant neighborhood, this
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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