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.
Written By
Hugh Taylor
Photography Contributed By
Jesse Son
Video By
Brandon Flash Craigie
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On average, homes in Cambridge, MD sell after 87 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Cambridge, MD over the last 12 months is $287,670, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Fully remodeled in 2022, this charming two-story home offers four bedrooms and two full baths of efficiently designed living space. The renovation brought fresh, modern updates throughout, creating a move-in-ready home that is both stylish and functional. Since the remodel, the seller has added fencing to both the front and rear yards, providing added privacy and convenience, along with backyard
This stylish 3 bedroom and 2 bathroom new construction home features an open layout, granite countertops, and low maintenance living just minutes from downtown Cambridge and the waterfront. The back yard features a rear deck, fenced back yard and a shed for storage. This bright and modern home is move-in ready!
This two-story home provides the opportunity for single-level living with everything you need on the first floor, including an open kitchen, dining room and Great Room, along with the owner’s suite. Upstairs is a loft overlooking the Great Room and two comfortable bedrooms that could be used as an office and for guests. An optional fourth bedroom provides even more livable space on the second
A new three-story townhome features a versatile recreation room and two-car garage upon entry. The second floor hosts a modern open-concept layout situated among the Great Room, dining area and kitchen, along with a flex space ideal for at-home work. At the top level are all three bedrooms to provide peaceful retreats, including the owner’s suite with a private bathroom.
PRICE REDUCED! MUST SEE! EVEN BETTER IN PERSON! This historic gem boasts 2,316 sq ft of living space with 4 spacious bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Full of character & charm from the covered front porch adorned with a welcoming swing, plus two additional two upstairs balconies, perfect for savoring the neighborhood's ambiance. You can walk everywhere! A mere couple of blocks away, is both the Choptank
Located on the first floor of this two-story townhome is the open-concept main living area. It includes a modern kitchen with a center island overlooking the dining area and a spacious Great Room, along with glass-sliders to connect to the backyard. Upstairs are all three bedrooms to provide tranquil retreats, including the owner’s suite with split walk-in closets and an attached bathroom.
Prime Ground-Floor Development Opportunity at One of the City’s Highest-Traffic IntersectionsRare opportunity to own and develop what many consider the best and most visible intersection in the city—located at the corner of Washington Street and High Street, the first major intersection entering town from the country. The property is bordered on three sides, including a city-owned paper
Discover space, flexibility, and opportunity at 1210 Stone Boundary Rd in Cambridge! This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath rancher with a versatile upstairs addition offers room to grow and endless potential — all priced under $300,000. The main level features a welcoming open-concept kitchen, living, and dining area ideal for everyday living and entertaining. Enjoy cozy evenings around the
Build your dream home on this scenic 3.53-acre wooded lot in the exclusive Heron Harbor community, nestled along Webbs Creek, which feeds into the Choptank River. Surrounded by water and nature, this peaceful setting offers access to a community pier on navigable water—perfect for kayaking, boating, and enjoying fresh Eastern Shore crabs. HOA fees include dock maintenance and BIP septic hook-up
*Sellers will need 30-90 days OR less to find their home of choice.Nestled on 1.89 acres of mostly cleared flat land, this move in ready 3 bed, 2 bath home offers a perfect blend of privacy, comfort and natural beauty. Surrounded by woods, the property provides a peaceful year around retreat but close enough to local restaurants, shops and activities. Spacious open concept living area with a
Quick Move In! This beautiful two-story home backs to the golf course and offers a low-maintenance layout designed for easy living. The first floor features a spacious owner’s suite, a versatile flex space, and an open kitchen and family room with soaring ceilings. Upstairs, a loft is surrounded by two secondary bedrooms. Enjoy the outdoors from the charming front porch or the relaxing back patio
This two-story home is the largest plan in this community and features an open layout in the dining room, kitchen, morning room and family room that flows to the outdoor patio. The two-car garage connects to a convenient mudroom. The upstairs loft is surrounded by a total of three bedrooms.
This expansive single-story home features a formal dining room tucked to the side of the foyer, followed by a generous open-concept layout shared among the kitchen, breakfast area and family room. Close by is a covered porch for outdoor moments. Throughout the home are two secondary bedrooms and the luxurious owner’s suite with a versatile retreat space and adjoining full-sized bathroom. An
DRB Homes is pleased to announce the St. John, a new and exciting home design! Attached two-car garage. Open concept kitchen, gathering area, and casual dining space. Second floor includes three secondary bedrooms and two full baths.
Welcome to Woods Crossing Apartments, your new home in the heart of Cambridge, MD. Our community offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience, nestled in a peaceful country atmosphere. Enjoy the outdoors with our BBQ & Picnic Lounge, perfect for those sunny days. For those who prefer shade, our covered pavilion provides a cool retreat. Pet lovers will appreciate our pet-friendly policy, and
Enjoy Beautiful water front living in this spacious 3 bedroom 2 full & 2 1/2 bath townhouse in a beautiful gated community. There is a Bonus room with a 1⁄2 bath on the entry level. Main floor has a large kitchen with upgraded countertops stainless steel appliances and upgraded cabinets. A balcony off the kitchen and dining area with a 1⁄2 bath off to the side. The Living Room is plenty big for
Beautiful, move-in ready 3 bedroom end-unit townhome with peaceful pond views. This bright and spacious home features an open-concept living space on the main level with luxury vinyl plank flooring, a modern kitchen with granite countertops and stainless appliances, and ample cabinetry for plenty of storage. There is also a main level half-bath. The deck off the kitchen/dining area provides
Nestled in the waterfront town of Cambridge, this delightful townhouse offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience. With direct access to the serene Choptank River, enjoy waterfront living right at your doorstep. Waterside deck off living room with water, electric and storage. Primary bedroom balcony with electric and storage. The property features a boat slip, perfect for boating
Step into luxury with this beautifully upgraded end-unit model townhome loaded with builder upgrades. This home features 1826 sq ft with 3 spacious bedrooms , 2 full baths, main level half bath , a lower level finished rec room with fireplace, half bath and 1 car attached garage. The main level open concept living area, kitchen and dining area are filled with natural light. The modern kitchen has
Step into luxury with this beautifully upgraded rental property, where every detail has been thoughtfully curated for comfort and style. This end-unit townhome features bright living and dining/kitchen areas with abundant natural light and luxury vinyl flooring that adds warmth and sohpistication. The gourmet kitchen is outfitted with stainless steel appliances, solid surface countertops and
Enjoy golf-course living in this brand new, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1840 sq ft end-unit Lennar townhome located in the desirable Tides at River Marsh community. This beautifully designed home offers modern finishes, an open layout, and scenic views of the 6th green, perfect for those seeking comfort, style and tranquility. Features include an open-concept main level with luxury plank flooring. The
Enjoy golf-course living in this brand new, 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1840 sq ft end-unit Lennar townhome located in the desirable Tides at River Marsh community. This beautifully designed home offers modern finishes, an open layout, and scenic views of the 6th green, perfect for those seeking comfort, style and tranquility. Features include an open-concept main level with luxury plank flooring. The
Experience the epitome of luxury living in this stunning new construction home, completed in 2024, nestled within the exclusive Jenkins Creek community. This exquisite Colonial-style residence boasts a perfect blend of modern elegance and timeless charm, featuring high-quality aluminum siding that enhances its curb appeal. Step into a world of tranquility with access to serene water features,
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