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.
1/4
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.
1/3
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
1/2
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.
1/3
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.
1/2
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall
23 min drive
Bus
North Ave & Druid Hill Ave Wb
Bus
North Ave & Pennsylvania Ave Wb
Bus
Pennsylvania Ave & Retreat St Nb
Bus
Cloverdale Rd & Mcculloh St
Bus
Pennsylvania Ave & Fulton Ave Nb
Bus
Fulton Ave & Flora St Nb
Bus
Fulton Ave & Reisterstown Rd Fs Nb
Reviews
Are you familiar with the Penn North neighborhood?
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 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Penn North, Baltimore over the last 12 months is $50,500, down 34% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Turnkey Investment Opportunity - Stylish City Living – Fully Furnished! Discover the perfect blend of charm, convenience, and high-income potential in this renovated 3-bedroom, 1-bath gem located in the heart of Druid Hill. Currently operating as a high-performing Airbnb, this property is being sold “Fully Furnished” —offering a completely turnkey opportunity for INVESTORS! Ideally situated for
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.
Located in the vibrant Penn North neighborhood, which is experiencing an exciting rebirth, this home is ideal for investors looking to customize and capitalize on a prime location. Don't miss this opportunity to transform this space into something spectacular! Offering 3 bedrooms and 1 full bath, a large living room, separate dining area and a full kitchen, this home is waiting for the next savvy
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
Priced to sell! Come and take a look at this Townhouse that is waiting for your magic touch! The main level features an ample living area, a separate dining room and a blank kitchen, which is ideal for you to bring your imagination. The second level offers 3 decent-sized bedrooms and a full bathroom. The fully finished basement offers additional space for storage or can be transformed into a
SHORT SALE! Fully renovated and turn-key, 2309 Druid Hill Ave offers an exceptional investment opportunity with two modern, tenant-ready units—one 1-bed/1-bath and one 2-bed/1-bath—each featuring updated kitchens, refreshed bathrooms, new flooring, fresh paint, and contemporary finishes throughout. This fully rented multi-unit property is ideal for investors or owner-occupants seeking immediate
POST AUCTION! Make an offer, buy it now! Deposit: $5,000. This two-story townhouse is located in the Penn North neighborhood of Baltimore City. Residents can enjoy nearby facilities/amenities such as the Mondawmin Mall and Coppin State University. The property is vacant and in need of major build up due to fire damage. The area also provides easy access to a major traffic artery, W North Ave,
Investor special in West Baltimore! This 3BR/1BA townhome offers 1,266 sq ft of opportunity for the savvy buyer ready put some TLC and finishing touches. With strong rental demand in the area and a price point that leaves room for profit, this is the kind of deal that pencils. Bring your contractor and your vision — the bones are there. Sold as-is. Schedule your showing before this one's gone.
Not your typical flip — the 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 5-bedroom, 3-full-bath Federal brick rowhome delivers 1,836 SF of finished living space across three levels. The main floor flows from a sunlit living room through an open dining area into
ONLINE AUCTION: This auction takes place on the Ashland Auction Group website bidding platform. Bidding begins 6/16/2026 @ 10:00 AM. Bidding ends 6/18/2026 @ 12:20 PM. The list price is the 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
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
End-of-group mixed-use brick-front rowhome with income potential and charm! The main level is set up for a deli or restaurant, fully equipped and ready to go—with a convenient powder room for staff and guests. Upstairs, the residential space, which has a potential rental income of $1,500, offers an open layout with a spacious kitchen, island prep area, and room for both dining and entertaining.
Property Id: 1770455**Private ROOM Available**Monthly Rent:1BR with SHARED BATH - $650Security Deposit: same as rentLease:Units are SINGLE occupancy (1 Person)**$150/month for Double OccupancyMonth to Month LeaseNO smoking and NO petsUtilities Included in Rent:Water, Electric, A/C, Trash Removal, Laundry, WiFi (speeds may be
Property Id: 1770456**Private ROOM Available**Monthly Rent:1BR with PRIVATE BATH - $850Security Deposit: $850Lease:Units are SINGLE occupancy (1 Person)**$150/month for Double OccupancyMonth to Month LeaseNO smoking and NO petsUtilities Included in Rent:Water, Electric, A/C, Trash Removal, Laundry**Contact us for more
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.
May Move-In Specials — New Tenants Choose One!1. Kick Off Summer Early!Move in this May and receive $100 off your first month’s rent on any available room. Start your summer in a new space!2. May Flash Deal!Apply and move in within 7 days of touring and receive 10% off your security deposit. 3. Spring Saving Bonus!Move into any available room and receive a $250 gift
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
This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home! Step inside to find spacious rooms with gleaming hardwood floors and modern recessed lighting throughout. Enjoy the convenience of a washer and dryer, along with central air to keep you cool all summer. The third floor offers a private suite perfect for a main bedroom or guest retreat. This home is designed for easy living and is ready to welcome you!
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
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
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.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
