$405,242Average Value$197Average Price per Sq Ft27Homes For Sale
This California is on the Chesapeake Bay
Named as an homage to the country's third-largest state, the community of California is known to Southern Maryland locals for hosting some of the larger business districts in Saint Mary’s County, as well as a popular landing spot for military employees at the nearby Naval Air Station Patuxent River. It's also a huge hub for watersports and Chesapeake Bay crabbing. "We've got a lot of water here," says MaryAnne Crewse, a California resident and Realtor who sells for O'Brien Realty. "15 minutes from everywhere here is water, rivers all heading into the Chesapeake." As with many coastal towns, much of California is built for and around the water, both to take advantage of the scenery and the wide range of activities. "There are great opportunities here for people that like to boat, crab, fish or sail," Crewse says.
California’s population has grown 8.7% from 2010 to 2020, according to the U.S. Census. Naval Air Station Patuxent River is a major employer, with jobs for around 17,900 people, including 9,800 civilian workers.
Unbeatable views along the Patuxent River in California.
Founded in 1943 the Naval Air Station Patuxent River is Lexington Park’s largest employer.
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Boating, fishing and a playground at Saint Mary’s River State Park
St. Mary's River State Park can be found at the St. Mary's River Watershed's northern end, and it features the 250-acre St. Mary's Lake, which has become a popular freshwater fishing spot. With boat launches, picnic tables and a playground, it's a nice spot to cozy up on a lazy afternoon. Elsewhere, Myrtle Point Park offers hiking and views of the Patuxent River along the bayside. Hikers can cross a wooded trail east to find themselves at a sandy beach with inviting waters. Then there's Town Creek Park, with a public playground, tennis courts and a pool that has memberships for residents. Many locals also own motorboats that they use to cruise around the Patuxent or Potomac rivers.
Myrtle Point Park in California Md. has a great beach on the Patuxent River.
Large boat ramps and a dock make putting a boat in as simple as it can be at St. Mary's River State Park, in Leonardtown, Md
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Wildewood has single-family homes, Myrtle Point offers townhouses
Home prices vary from $250,000 to $900,000, depending on square footage and proximity to the Patuxent River. Buyers can browse a market full of Colonial Revivals, ranch-style homes, townhouses and condos. Homes closer to the shoreline are hard to find, with some featuring boat docks that provide convenient access to bustling waterways. "Our market has been competitive and stayed competitive since 2019, and our inventory has stayed low as long," Crewse says. Smaller subdivisions within California have their own distinct curb appeal. “Wildewood is a unique development,” says Edward Tully, a California local who's a Realtor with Re/Max One. “They have an older section with lots of trees and a newer section that’s almost like a storybook community. There are pools, houses are close together and everyone knows each other." Tully also mentions that shopping at Wildewood Center is nearby, while adding that Myrtle Point's condos and townhouses have better proximity to the retailers on Solomons Island.
California experiences four distinct seasons, with muggy summers and snowy winters. There is a minor flood risk in California, especially for properties closer to the Patuxent River to the east, the Potomac River to the west or along the area’s rippling waterways.
New townhomes at Myrtle Point are close to everything in California.
Newer colonial style homes are still being built in Wildewood Md.
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U.S. National Oyster Festival is a county tradition
California and its coastal communities have a history of drawing upon one another for inspiration, affiliation and a broader sense of community. This is especially true when it comes to activities, shopping and annual events offered in a uniquely St. Mary's County way. "There's always an oyster festival," Crewse says, alluding to the U.S. National Oyster Festival, held for more than five decades at St. Mary's County Fairgrounds. The oyster-packed celebration features a shucking contest, entertainment and an oyster cook-off. Musical events also float along the coast. While the Calvert Marine Museum just across Thomas Johnson Bridge is renowned for hosting all manner of maritime history and exhibits, it's nearly as well-known for its Waterside Music Series, which brings in some big-name acts. Since 1995, folks have gathered in scenic Solomon's Island by the bay to see artists like Brothers Osborne, ZZ Top, and Earth, Wind & Fire. "The last concert I went to there, Heart was playing," Crewse says. St. Mary's College of Maryland also has a concert series of its own.
A shopping hub in Saint Mary's County
California is where most Saint Mary’s County residents stop for shopping. At the intersection of Three Notch and St. Andrew's Church roads, First Colony Center is the primary hub for big-box retail and groceries. Less than a mile north is Wildewood Center, with retailers just a stone’s throw from the homes at Wildewood. Though the area has many chain eateries, locals can dine at established seafood restaurants on nearby Solomons Island and enjoy classic Chesapeake Bay dishes, from blue crabs to rockfish.
California Md. has many retail and restaurant chains for all your shopping needs.
California is know for all of it's retail options along Three Notch Road.
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Quality Saint Mary’s County schools
Saint Mary's County Public Schools serves California children, and it's rated with an A-minus by Niche. The school district offers additional programs at each of its high schools to enhance students' educational experiences, operating an Academy of Finance, an Academy of Performing and Visual Arts, a Career and Technology Center, initiatives centered on Global International Studies and STEM, and a Fire and EMS Cadet Program. St. Mary's County is also home to the historic St. Mary's College of Maryland, which was founded in 1840.
Esperanza Middle School in California Md. gets a B+ rating from Niche.
Captain Walter Francis Duke Elementary School, Leonardtown Md.
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Not much crime in California
According to FBI statistics, the California-Lexington Park Metropolitan Area saw drops in violent and property crime rates from 2018 through 2020. The area’s violent and property crime rates are also below the national average.
A little longer than expected
Three Notch Road runs north-south through California for wider access to Saint Mary’s County and Naval Air Station Patuxent River. Patuxent Beach Road runs east-west, so locals can reach Solomons Island and Calvert County points of interest in minutes. For public transit, there are Saint Mary’s County buses that run along main streets.
Gov. Thomas Johnson Bridge will take you across the Patuxent River to Solomon’s.
Catch the STS bus in Wildewood shopping center and connect with MDOT MTA’s Commuter Bus.
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Written By
Maxwell Olarinde
Photography Contributed By
Jesse Snyder
Video By
Adam Lapallo
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Priyadarshini Persaud,
an experienced agent in this area.
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
On average, homes in California, MD sell after 24 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in California, MD over the last 12 months is $385,000, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
COMING SOON! Nestled in Sycamore Hollow of Wildewood, this home includes many recent upgrades. All new LG Appliances in 2025, new HVAC system in 2024, fully renovated crawl space with all new insulation and full encapsulation with dehumidifier in 2023, and new 50 year architectural shingle roof in 2020! All has been done for you so you can have peace of mind while enjoying all this home has to
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home nestled in the heart of Great Mills! From the inviting front porch to the fully fenced backyard, this property offers the perfect blend of comfort, space, and convenience. Step inside to find a spacious and functional layout designed for everyday living and entertaining. Brand new carpet adds a fresh touch, creating a warm and
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained Colonial, perfectly positioned on a desirable corner lot in Wildewood. A charming covered front porch sets the tone before you even step inside. The impressive three-story foyer opens to formal living and dining rooms, offering the perfect layout for both everyday living and entertaining. The spacious eat-in kitchen is truly the heart of the home,
This property is located in a rapidly developing area of central St. Mary’s County very close to the expanding county airport, offering strong potential for future growth and investment.The parcel is currently zoned RL (Residential Low Density), which allows for one dwelling unit per acre, with the potential for up to five homes per acre under the current zoning ordinance. Additionally,
The Nassau Cove truly lives up to its name. Enter this attached home through the one-car garage and step right into the gorgeous gourmet kitchen. Its large center island overlooks both the inviting great room and the formal dining space. Entertain family and friends here or outside on the optional outdoor patio. The main level also includes your luxury owner’s suite, which features a dual vanity
The house on the knoll at Louisdale & St. Andrew's Lane features great full-corner curb appeal! Inside, the upgraded kitchen has tons of storage in the cherry cabinets with soft-close doors and a center island/bar is the center of this home, open to the dining room with easy movement throughout every room in the main living area, as well as large outdoor patio and gorgeous fully-fenced back yard.
This stunning end unit townhome with 2,548 finished sq ft in a premium location close to schools, shopping, restaurants and commuter routes in California, Maryland will exceed all of your expectations. Beautifully maintained 3-level end-unit of superb living space including a fully finished basement. With 3 spacious bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and a convenient half bath, there’s room for everyone
Built in 2023 and never before lived in, 23600 Crosswinds Way is sure to delight. This exceptional residence features 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and 1 half bath, with enhanced decorative details and premium options throughout. The open‐concept main level is filled with natural light and highlights a spacious kitchen with a large island, designer cabinetry, upgraded countertops, and recessed
Andrew UndemBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Homesale Realty
More pictures coming soon!!! 2025 Build. Why wait for new construction when this home is completely move-in ready and loaded with upgrades. This beautiful home offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms with a versatile and highly desirable layout. The entry level features an oversized two-car garage equipped with an electric vehicle charging plug, a rare and valuable feature. This level also includes a
Bella Vista on the Patuxent River – An Elevated Waterfront Retreat Nestled on the banks of the Patuxent River in Esperanza Farms, Bella Vista is a five-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bath waterfront retreat where intentional design meets resort-style living. Thoughtfully reimagined with a full interior renovation in 2023 and an exterior transformation in 2024, this multilevel home offers the rare
COMING SOON! Nestled in Sycamore Hollow of Wildewood, this home includes many recent upgrades. All new LG Appliances in 2025, new HVAC system in 2024, fully renovated crawl space with all new insulation and full encapsulation with dehumidifier in 2023, and new 50 year architectural shingle roof in 2020! All has been done for you so you can have peace of mind while enjoying all this home has to
1.39 Acre Building lot with a previously approved permit package. Previously this was designed for a large 2 story home and approved by the county. The location has NO HOA and while it is close to just about everything it feels very private. Bring your builder or we can supply a builder for you! Current owner intended to build a spec home on the lot until plans changed. It is hard to find a clean
Rare Opportunity - This 24-acre waterfront lot has many special features. The views are Spectacular! Located on Lewis Creek, this creek was dredged in the 1960's for a marina across from this property that didn't materialize so there is plenty of depth. This lot is perc'd and ready for your home. Located in the neighborhood of Town Creek it is close to shopping and the Navy Base
Beautifully Maintained 2BR/2BA Condo | Granite Counters | Stainless Steel Appliances | Prime Commuter Location Meticulously maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bath condominium ideally located for convenient commuting to Washington, DC, Andrews AFB, Pax River, and surrounding military installations.This well-appointed unit features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a functional
The Apartments of Wildewood is Saint Mary’s premier rental community! Centrally located to everything from employment to entertainment! Our residents have access to many amenities such as two beautiful clubhouses, two sparkling pools, and 24 hour fitness center and on site storage. Friends and family will be awed by your spacious new home with a garage, fireplace, soaring ceilings and soaking
Beautifully Appointed 3-Bedroom, 2.5-Bath Contemporary Colonial in the Heart of Wildewood Welcome to this stunning detached home offering comfort, style, and an exceptional location within the sought-after Wildewood community. This thoughtfully designed residence features a spacious open-concept main level enhanced by rich hardwood flooring throughout. The gourmet kitchen is beautifully appointed
Discover luxury apartments in California, MD at Settler's Landing. Our beautiful apartment homes feature one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts designed to give you ample living and storage space. Our apartments are complete with granite countertops, ceramic floors, and private patios. You'll also enjoy our 24-hour fitness center, bark park for resident pets, resort-style pool, and outdoor fire
Spacious and well-maintained Ensign Model condo offering over 1,220 square feet of comfortable living space in a secure, locked-entry building with elevator access. Occupants and guests must use an access code to enter, providing an added level of privacy and security. This bright and inviting unit features 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths, thoughtfully designed for both privacy and functionality.
Experience the lifestyle you deserve at Villas at Greenview West, where modern comfort meets timeless charm. Nestled in the heart of Great Mills, Maryland, our inviting apartment community combines sleek design elements with thoughtfully curated amenities to elevate your everyday living. Choose from our spacious 2- and 3-bedroom townhomes, crafted to meet your needs and preferences. Bring along
Welcome Home to Wildewood! This Beautiful townhome is just 3 years young. This home is located in one of St. Mary's most desirable neighborhoods. Offering you 3 spacious bedrooms with 3 full baths and 1 half bath. The basement offers a generous open space that is very versatile. Full size washer and dryer are on the bedroom level. Use it as a 4th bedroom, 2nd living space, or just an extra-large
Enjoy a fully furnished studio suite in our hotel at an affordable rate with free wi-fi, free utilities and free premium cable. Each studio suite has a full kitchen with full-size refrigerator, stovetop and microwave, and has a flexible workspace and plenty of storage. All our hotels are pet-friendly and have on-site guest laundry available. Plus, there are no long-term commitments and you can
Renovated two bedroom one and a half bath Condo top level you weren't here people stomping around above you and you will get free heat from those below .
Extremely spacious and convenient end-unit townhouse available for rent in the popular Wildewood area. Huge community pool complex is located only 900 ft away and membership is included in your rent! Very convenient to Pax River NAS and schools. Grocery, shopping, entertainment and outdoor recreation all within easy drive. Home is officially 2400 sq ft plus a third floor loft area with an
Wonderful mid level condo that have been beautifully updated! With luxurious vinyl plank flooring, soft color palette, and tastefully remodeled kitchen and bathrooms, you’ll instantly fall in love with this bright and inviting space. Located in sought after Wildewood Community convenient to shopping, restaurants, and PAX River.
Welcome home to this exceptionally well-maintained upper-level 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo offering comfort, convenience, and easy living. The open kitchen with generous counter space keeps everyone connected — perfect for entertaining or casual everyday living — and features brand-new appliances for a fresh, modern touch. You’ll appreciate the spacious laundry room with plenty of room for storage
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