Bel Air, Maryland, is about 30 miles north of Baltimore and 10 miles northwest of the Chesapeake Bay. It is the county seat of Harford County, and while understated, it is an enduring community, having celebrated its 150th anniversary in late 2023. What began as just a handful of small lots centered around the county courthouse boomed in the wake of the Civil War, as the Maryland & Pennsylvania Railroad – colloquially called the Ma & Pa – brought industry to the town. Over 20 buildings in the town are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and its downtown district has become a bastion of local businesses and boutiques in recent years.
“Homebuyers choose Bel Air for plenty of good reasons,” says Realtor John Benedictis with Keller Williams Realty Partners. “The top three are generally the great schools in the area, its location between Pennsylvania and Baltimore, and of course the Aberdeen Proving Ground.” The foundation of the Proving Ground in 1917 brought a renewed population surge to Bel Air. Today, this military installation is by far the top employer in the city, with Upper Chesapeake Health placing second. This has led to an expansion of Bel Air’s suburbs, with large homes developed in bunches on spacious lots.
This small town’s culture has been intertwined with its larger, more famous neighbor to the south due to simple commutes via Interstate 95. In 2024, Bel Air was named Baltimore’s Best Suburb by readers of The Baltimore Sun newspaper, a victory proudly displayed on the town’s website. Orioles flags are a common sight outside front doors, and snowballs topped with marshmallow fluff at Emmorton are a summertime tradition. But while this semi-suburban city embraces some of the most iconic aspects of Baltimore’s unique culture, it remains proud of its own roots all the same.
Bel Air is the seat of Harford County.
Aberdeen Proving Ground brought a renewed population surge to Bel Air in 1917.
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Subdivisions sprawling out from Main Street
Homes in Bel Air come in a variety of styles, including midcentury Cape Cods and ranch-style homes on spacious lots with front and backyards. Newer developments have brought large Colonial Revivals and Modern Traditional builds to the area, some with brick or stonework facades, in subdivisions with wide streets and open fields. “The beauty of Bel Air is that these newer homes are still close to the downtown area,” Benedictis says. “Buyers really like getting the old with the new in one location. It’s also a mix of home ages, from the 1950s to the 2020s.” Ranch-style homes and Cape Cods can cost anywhere from $320,000 to $600,000 depending on the status of any renovations and build year, while prices for Colonial Revivals and Modern Traditional homes can range from $400,000 to over $850,000.
This large single-family home offers a large driveway and two-car garage.
This ranch-style home in Bel Air features a nice front yard.
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High-ranking schools, from kindergarten to college
The Harford County Public School District earns an overall A-minus from Niche and is ranked as the No. 2 Best District in the Baltimore area. “Families with young kids know Bel Air has well-loved and highly ranked schools,” Benedictis says. “It’s a big reason why buyers seek us out.” Two elementary schools, one middle school and one high school serve the city. Bel Air High also scores an A-minus, boasting a 95 percent graduation rate. John Carroll High School, established in 1964, offers a private faith-based alternative, and also receives an A-minus. Harford Community College is ranked by Niche as the No. 3 best community college out of the 16 in the state. Founded in 1947, HCC offers more than 140 programs to more than 6,300 full- and part-time students.
Bel Air Elementary School serves students from Pre-K through the 5th grade.
Bel Air High School opened in 1817 as the Bel Air Academy.
Bel Air Middle School is part of the Harford County Public Schools district.
Bel Air residents can continue their education at Harford County Community College.
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Downtown is a haven for locally-owned shops and restaurants
The historic downtown area, designated as the Bel Air Arts and Entertainment District, features a variety of restaurants, boutiques and cultural destinations such as MaGerks Pub, The Nest on Main Street Gift Shop and the Harford Artists Gallery. “There are so many locally owned shops downtown,” says Jordan Sarnovsky, area resident of 5 years. “Vagabond Sandwich Company is local and always has a line. There’s a tailor there who’s done dresses for me on short notice, and a place called Doggilicious Doughnuts that makes adorable dog treats.” Independent Brewing Company, located near the MA & PA Trail, brews small-batch ales and ciders that are gluten-free and offers Sunday morning Bend and Brew yoga classes on premises.
Harford Mall, the county’s only shopping center, hosts 10 restaurants, 15 retail stores and seasonal events like the Spring Craft Show. Residents will often make the 17-mile trip down Interstate 95 to White Marsh for larger selections. White Marsh Mall is one of the region’s largest, with over 130 shops and eateries contained within the main building. Just across Honeygo Boulevard from the mall is The Avenue, a walkable strip of trendy restaurants and popular brand outlets surrounding a central astroturf green and the AMC movie theater.
Bel Air residents can enjoy exploring the Bel Air historic district.
Your fury best friend will love a treat from Doggilicious Doughnuts located in downtown Bel Air.
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Parks, playgrounds and the Ma & Pa Railroad Trail
The Town of Bel Air maintains six parks throughout the city, ranging in size from a half-acre to 7 acres at the largest. Although they are small, they are well-equipped with amenities, including jungle gyms, grills and picnic shelters. Local playgrounds are noted for their unique and creative design. “My best friend’s daughter absolutely loves the giraffe at Lyn Stacie Getz Playground,” says Sarnovsky. In addition to its eye-catching giraffe sculpture, Getz Playground features a play set crafted to resemble a village square.
Hikers can stretch their legs on the Ma & Pa Trail, which traces the path of the former Maryland and Pennsylvania Railroad. This 6-mile walking path winds through the woodland of the county and is popular for dog walking. Golfers will enjoy proximity to Wetlands Golf Course, a public 18-hole course in nearby Aberdeen, and to Maryland Golf and Country Clubs and Winters Run Golf Club, the private courses closer to home.
The MA & PA Heritage trail is a quiet escape from busy city life in Bel Air.
Bel Air golfers love having Winters Run Golf Club in their backyards.
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Interstates and commuter trains provide access to Baltimore
Access to Interstate 95 and Maryland Route 1 makes the 30-mile commute south to Baltimore simple. Residents can also head south on Maryland Route 40, the most direct way to make the 27-mile trip to Johns Hopkins Hospital. A commuter train also runs from Aberdeen, making the trip to Baltimore’s Penn Station in just over 30 minutes. Harford Transit LINK offers bus service throughout the county, running from shopping centers like Harford Mall to the MARC and Amtrak station and to Upper Chesapeake Hospital.
The Bel Air Armory, food festivals and the Aberdeen Ironbirds
The eye-catching small castle on North Main Street is the Bel Air Armory. Built in 1915, the facility now serves as a rentable event space. Its landscaped gardens, park and stage area make it a popular spot for weddings, corporate events and other celebrations. The Armory Marketplace, located behind the building, hosts the Harford Artists Gallery and several small local businesses. The Bel Air Farmers Market, staged on Main Street, features over 60 vendors and occurs every Saturday from April to November.
The annual Kite Festival, held every spring, is a popular event that includes free kites, live music and local food trucks. The Maryland State BBQ Bash, held each October downtown, attracts visitors from across the country. Featuring music, food and tailgate vendors, the event also includes a cash prize for the team with the best barbecue. Baseball fans who do not wish to make the 30-mile trip south to Camden Yards can instead opt to drive 10 miles east to Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen, home of Minor League Baseball’s Aberdeen Ironbirds.
The Bel Air Armory is a historic National Guard armory built in 1915.
The Bel Air Farmer’s Market has been serving Harford County since 1975.
Aberdeen baseball fans can attend an IronBirds game at Leidos Field.
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Crime rates in Bel Air fall below the national average
As of December 2023, the FBI reports that violent crime occurs in Bel Air at a rate of 104 incidents per 100,000 residents, which falls below the national average. Property crime fell from November to December 2023, ending the year at 161 incidents per 100,000 residents, in-line with the national average.
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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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On average, homes in Bel Air, MD sell after 24 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Bel Air, MD over the last 12 months is $425,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home! A spacious three-level above-grade townhome with a two-car garage, thoughtfully designed living space, and an open layout that blends comfort, function, and style. The main entry welcomes you with a foyer and convenient access to both the upper living areas and the expansive lower level. Downstairs, you’ll find a large family room, powder room, interior access to the garage, and a
This beautiful Keystone-built home offers an opportunity to own a property designed with the exact upgrades and finishes of the model home for the community. From the elegant stone exterior to the thoughtful layout, every inch of this residence reflects quality and attention to detail.The heart of the home features an open floor plan with wide-plank engineered flooring throughout. The kitchen
Prime Bel Air Rancher – Coming Soon! This well-maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home showcases true pride of ownership in one of Bel Air’s most desirable locations. The main level features a spacious living room, generously sized dining room, and hardwood floors along with three bedrooms and two full bathrooms (one a primary en suite). Enjoy the enclosed side sunroom overlooking a large, flat
Unlock the door to your future with an exclusive offer: Qualify for an exceptional 5% financing rate and $4,300 per month payment for one year. $35,000 in down payment assistance meaning no down payment is required. ARM financing also available at 5.25% rate for 5 years. Taxes and insurance not included. Buy direct and receive a FREE, 3-year home warranty on all major systems in this home. Call
A True first floor condo.Why rent when you can own and start building equity?Rarely available ground-level unit in the desirable English Country Manor II, offering true one-level living with no stairs—from your car straight to your kitchen. Nestled in a charming community with an English village feel, this home is just moments from the MA & PA Trail and includes access to an array of
Welcome home! A spacious three-level above-grade townhome with a two-car garage, thoughtfully designed living space, and an open layout that blends comfort, function, and style. The main entry welcomes you with a foyer and convenient access to both the upper living areas and the expansive lower level. Downstairs, you’ll find a large family room, powder room, interior access to the garage, and a
This beautiful Keystone-built home offers an opportunity to own a property designed with the exact upgrades and finishes of the model home for the community. From the elegant stone exterior to the thoughtful layout, every inch of this residence reflects quality and attention to detail.The heart of the home features an open floor plan with wide-plank engineered flooring throughout. The kitchen
Welcome to a home where "pride of ownership" is an understatement. This home spans over 3,800 square feet of finished living space on a premium lush half-acre lot at the end of a cul de sac. This 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence has been transformed with an extra level of care. These owners have meticulously updated every inch of the property, ensuring that all you have to do is move in and
Prime Bel Air Rancher – Coming Soon! This well-maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home showcases true pride of ownership in one of Bel Air’s most desirable locations. The main level features a spacious living room, generously sized dining room, and hardwood floors along with three bedrooms and two full bathrooms (one a primary en suite). Enjoy the enclosed side sunroom overlooking a large, flat
BRING ALL OFFERS!! Welcome to this fully renovated and modern 3 bedroom, 2 full bath condo in the Bel Air neighborhood of Country Walk. This neighborhood sits halfway between Bel Air and I-95 and Rt 40 making it super convenient, and within minutes of the Festival at Bel Air and tons of shopping and dining destinations. This condo sits on the second floor and entering brings you into a large open
MacPhail Woods is Bel Air's premier 55 and over condo community. Welcome to this well maintained 2 bed, 2 full bath modern condo that comes with two deeded garage parking spots. Enter into the lobby and take the elevators to the 3rd floor. Walking into the unit brings you to an open concept dining and living room area with crown molding and engineered hardwood flooring throughout. To the right is
OPEN FOR SALES CURRENTLY SELLING OFFSITE- Office located at THINK TANK- 16 Bel Air South Parkway, Bel Air, MD 21015 Call for Hours and availability. Only 38 townhomes will be built in the Premier Location in Bel Air. A cul de sac community located off West Wheel Road. The Parkland is a stunning, Craftsman style 3 level townhome. Featuring an oversized garage, 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 baths,
QUICK MOVE-IN – UNDER CONSTRUCTION Currently selling offsite. The sales office is located at Think Tank, 16 Bel Air South Parkway, Bel Air, MD 21015. Please call for hours and availability. This exclusive cul-de-sac community in Bel Air will feature only 38 townhomes, offering a rare opportunity to own in a premier location just off West Wheel Road. The Parkland is a stunning three-level
The main floor of the popular Hemingway offers a spacious great room, as well as an open dining area that flows into a spacious kitchen with a center island and walk-in pantry. This home will be built with either a formal living room or a study. Upstairs, you'll find a convenient laundry and a lavish primary suite with private bath. The second floor will be built with either a loft or an extra
Welcome to Belcove Place!! Love the community you live with the comfort and convenience in the heart of Bel Air. This beautifully deluxe-renovated two-bedroom, two-bathroom (one full, one half) townhouse, features the convenience of a washer and dryer in the unit, making everyday living easy and efficient. Stainless steel appliances, upgraded cabinets, granite countertops, walk in closet and SO
Experience James Run Living at its finest. We offer brand new 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartment homes with an elevator in every building. We are conveniently located at the Belcamp exit off of I-95 in Harford County. Starbucks, Tropical Smoothie and Chipotle is also located in the community. It's time to find your new home with most Luxurious Apartment Community in Harford County. Enjoy all of the
Welcome to Belcove Place! Enjoy this conveniently located studio apartment in the heart of Belair! This stunning studio offers a fully equipped kitchen with an open floor concept. Love the community you live with sparkling resort -inspired swimming pool, tennis courts, impeccable landscaping, fitness center, playground and much more! Extras! Grills at the pool, dog park, resident events, duck
Calvert’s Walk is nestled in a quiet and peaceful Bel Air, MD neighborhood. These Bel Air apartments include many thoughtful amenities like nine-foot ceilings and built-in bookshelves. Select homes include upgraded kitchens and bathrooms, oversized closets, granite countertops, washers and dryers, and patios or balconies. We invite our residents to enjoy our beautiful swimming pool, relax on the
Welcome to Belcove Place, where comfort and convenience come together in the heart of Bel Air. This beautifully deluxe-renovated two-bedroom, one-bathroom unit features the convenience of a washer and dryer in the unit, making everyday living easy and efficient. Deluxe renovations including stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops and much more! Located just minutes from shopping,
You will feel right at home in our community at Belcove Place Apartments, conveniently located near White Oak in beautiful Bel Air, Maryland. Whether you need a studio, one, or two-bedroom, these garden-style apartments offer you desirable in-home features and amazing community amenities. Enjoy the convenience of a suburban lifestyle with everything you want; a comfortable home, an inviting
Welcome to Belcove Place, where comfort and convenience come together in the heart of Bel Air. This beautifully deluxe-renovated one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo features the convenience of a washer and dryer in the unit, making everyday living easy and efficient. Located just minutes from shopping, hospitals, and great restaurants, you’ll love being close to everything while enjoying the peaceful
Named for the river that runs through Harford County, The Park at Winters Run represents a new style of living, where you can live connected without having to sacrifice your peace of mind. Serenely situated in Bel Air, MD., The Park at Winters Run is a rustic haven located just minutes from Interstate 95 and Routes 1 and 40. Our residences are accessible yet tranquil, so that you have room to
Apartments at Bel Air offers beautiful pet-friendly one and two bedroom apartments. Located in Bel Air near White Oak, Apartments at Bel Air is close to a large selection of parks, shopping, and schools, perfect for residents looking to balance the conveniences of metropolitan living and the charm of a residential community. With spacious one and two bedroom apartments, premier amenities, and an
Welcome to Heritage Woods, a community designed for comfortable, convenient living in the heart of Bel Air, Maryland. With thoughtfully planned apartment homes and easy access to major commuter routes, Heritage Woods offers the balance of accessibility, neighborhood charm, and everyday livability that today's residents want.Located near Route 1, US-40, and I-95, you're just
Discover a living space tailored to your lifestyle at Five43. Choose from our diverse range of 1, 2, or 3-bedroom apartments, as well as our uniquely designed loft apartments. Spanning 980-1,900 square feet, each home offers accentuated modern features and upscale amenities that simplify your daily life. Command your day, whether you're immersing yourself in a book by the fireplace or crafting
BEST VALUE in all of Bel Air! Harford Village South is an enchanting enclave located in the heart of downtown Bel Air, close to everything. You can hop on the Town-Go-Round Bus – just steps from your door - for easy access to shopping, entertainment, medical centers, and public transportation. Or you can take a leisurely stroll to the medley of shops and restaurants within easy walking distance.
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