A colonial Maryland port town with rich historical significance and a welcoming community
Founded in 1684, Cambridge is among the oldest colonial cities in Maryland. It is also among the most important of the state’s towns, boasting connections to influential figures in American history. “Harriet Tubman was born in Dorchester County, and Cambridge is the county seat,” says Angela Simonelli, real estate advisor with Compass and an area resident of over 10 years. “There’s a museum dedicated to her life and fight for freedom. There’s over 200 years of history in Cambridge, and more stories to tell than most major American cities.” Before it became a significant stop on the Underground Railroad, Cambridge was one of Maryland’s most important port towns, a heritage that the nearly 13,000 residents remain proud of today. “What really makes Cambridge special is its people,” Simonelli says. “The locals are warm and friendly. They’re very quick to make you feel like part of the community.”
The Harriet Tubman Mural is located behind 424 Race Street in Cambridge, MD on an exterior wall of the Harriet Tubman Museum and Educational Center.
For over five generations and 126 years, The J. M. Clayton Company has been preparing live Chesapeake Bay blue crabs delivered fresh daily by local waterman in Cambridge, MD.
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Revitalization of Cambridge's industry has proved successful
In the first half of the 20th century, Cambridge was the home of the Phillips Packing Company, the largest employer in the county. By 1960, operations at the packing plant had ceased, and the city fell on trying times. “Cambridge has had a negative connotation for a while,” Simonelli says. “But residents and local lawmakers have really turned it around.” Today, Cambridge is home to Cambridge International, the largest manufacturer of metal conveyor belts and wire cloth in the world, and to the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, which received the World’s Best Award from Travel and Leisure magazine in July of 2024. The Cambridge Police Department also reported an 11 percent decrease in major crimes between 2022 and 2023.
Experience luxury at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort in Cambridge, MD.
The Phillips Packing House company and its legacy had an essential role in the development of Cambridge, Maryland.
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Much of Cambridge is near the water, but flooding is not a significant concern
Housing styles in Cambridge are diverse, ranging from closely packed colonial properties near the downtown district to midcentury ranch-style homes and modern traditional builds on spacious lots within eyeshot of the Chesapeake Bay. As of 2024, the median price for homes in the city was around $280,000, but prices rise with the proximity of the water. “One of the best things about Cambridge is that you can enjoy affordable waterfront living,” Simonelli says. “For around $500,000, you have the ability to see the bay from your front porch.” Although nearly every home in Cambridge is within walking distance of the water, flooding is usually only a concern for properties that are directly on the shoreline.
Midcentury ranch-style homes offer a lower cost option to access the waterfront in Cambridge, MD.
Waterfront Properties in Cambridge, MD offer private access to the Choptank River.
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Dorchester County Public Schools allow dual enrollment with a top area community college
Cambridge is the headquarters of Dorchester County Public Schools, which earns an overall grade of C-plus from Niche. Cambridge-South Dorchester High, rated C, is the main public high school serving the city. Students here have the opportunity for dual enrollment classes at Chesapeake College, just 30 miles north. Among the college’s standout programs is the Associate Degree in Nursing, which Allnurses.com ranked as the best in Maryland in 2024.
Choptank Elementary School is a public school serving grades pre-k to 5th grade in Cambridge, MD.
Cambridge-South Dorchester High School is a public school in Cambridge, MD serving students from 9th to 12th grade.
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Fishing, hunting and outdoorsmanship are common pastimes in Cambridge
Cambridge sits near the mouth of the Choptank River, meaning that the Chesapeake Bay plays a large role in outdoor recreation for residents. Boating and fishing are popular pastimes, as is hunting at the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge during archery, muzzleloader and shotgun seasons. There are more than 16,000 acres open to hunters at various times throughout the year. The refuge also features over 5 miles of hiking trails and 17 miles of paddling trails.
The Choptank River in Cambridge, MD offers countless outdoor activities from boating to bird watching.
Slowly meander through the scenic Blackwater Wildlife Refuge.
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Downtown Cambridge is a thriving hub of creative local cuisine
Grocery stores, chain eateries and big-box retailers can all be found along U.S. Route 50, which swings through the east side of the city on its way to the Atlantic Ocean. The downtown district sits on the other side of Cambridge Creek, concentrated around High and Poplar Streets. Here, residents will find locally owned boutiques and restaurants like Thaitalian Infusion Cuisine, which has earned accolades from the state for its innovative menu and welcoming atmosphere. Other popular destinations include RAR Brewing, a taproom run by area natives, and The Dive Club, a nautical-themed tiki bar.
Stop by for a quick meal at the Bay Country Bakery & Cafe in Cambridge, MD.
Thaitalian Infusion Cuisine blends Thai and Italian flavors in Cambridge, MD.
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Cambridge is a walkable city, but U.S. Route 50 makes it simple to get around the Eastern Shore
U.S. Route 50 is Cambridge's main lifeline, connecting the city across the Choptank River to Easton, its neighbor to the north. This highway also cuts east across town and provides the main connection with destinations like Ocean City and Salisbury. At around 7 total square miles, the city is very walkable. However, the Cambridge Central public bus line also makes it easy to get around when the weather is prohibitive.
A vibrant art scene drives festivals and community engagement in downtown Cambridge
Marylanders who are unfamiliar with Cambridge may be surprised to discover the city’s rich arts scene. Local artwork is exhibited at the Main Street Gallery, and the Dorchester Center for the Arts offers art classes and a shop stocked with handmade goods. Food festivals like Taste of Cambridge also draw crowds eager to sample area seafood and enjoy live music.
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