A revitalized bayside community that blends history, art and cuisine
Easton, the seat of Talbot County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, is home to just over 17,000 residents. Like many other towns on this side of the Chesapeake Bay, Easton is known for its easygoing vibe and proximity to the water. “Residents and tourists will both praise Easton for its calm and friendly atmosphere,” says Angela Simonelli, a real estate advisor with Compass Realty and area resident of over 10 years. “Forbes actually named it one of the coolest places in America to buy a holiday home back in 2018. It’s got a lot of history and a great healthcare system, and it’s become a popular vacation spot for people from Washington, D.C. and Baltimore.” This view of Easton as a seaside destination has caused some growing pains as property prices rise and the market becomes more competitive. However, it has also revitalized the city’s culinary and art scenes, adding to its unique mix of history and small-town charm.
Easton is a small idyllic city with easy access to the Chesapeake Bay.
Easton is known for its easygoing vibe and proximity to the water and its inhabitants.
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As Easton's appeal grows, its housing market becomes more competitive
As of 2024, the median housing price in Easton was around $450,000. “One thing to note is that Easton has a pretty high cost of living, especially compared to other parts of Maryland,” Simonelli says. “Prices have gone up a lot, and the market is pretty competitive. There’s a lower rate of home ownership compared to surrounding areas, and the rising prices can make it hard for people who are shopping here.” Cape Cods and American Foursquares are among the most common styles to be found on the tightly packed and tree-lined streets, with new construction taking place sporadically throughout the city. Midcentury homes toward the center of town tend to fetch lower prices than those with water access, which can price over the $1 million mark.
Discover the ideal single family home with small town vibes and proximity to the Chesapeake Bay in Easton, MD.
Colonial style homes with private water access, can price over the $1 million mark in Easton, MD.
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Talbot County students can take dual enrollment courses at Chesapeake College
Easton students are zoned to attend Talbot County Public Schools, which earns an overall B from Niche. Easton High School scores a B, offering dual enrollment courses with Chesapeake College 14 miles north of town. Chesapeake’s Associate Degree in Nursing program was ranked as the best in Maryland by Allnurses.com in 2024. Faith-based alternatives like Saints Peter & Paul High School are also available.
Easton High School in Easton helps students excel.
Chesapeake College is the center of life-long learning for mid-shore residents seeking high-quality, affordable education in Cambridge, MD.
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Healthcare and law enforcement play large roles in the county's job market
The healthcare industry is a cornerstone of Easton’s economy, as the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center is the top employer in the county. “The hospital is very well-known, and it really shows how dedicated the community is to providing quality care,” Simonelli says. “Outside of that, though, job opportunities in the area can be scarce. The police department is hiring new officers, so that can be a draw.” While more recent data is not available, the Easton Police Department reported a nearly 23 percent decrease in major crimes between 2019 and 2020.
University of Maryland Shore Regional Health extends health care services throughout the Maryland mid-Shore region.
The Easton Police Department has been serving the community with pride since 1906.
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Downtown Easton is known for fine dining
Grocery stores and big-box retailers fill the shopping centers around U.S. Route 50 and Easton Parkway, so residents do not need to venture far for everyday necessities. Longstanding markets like Gay’s Seafood provide locals with Maryland’s favorite delicacy, steamed blue crabs, year-round. While nationally recognizable chain eateries line the highways, the historic downtown district is the highlight of Easton’s culinary scene. Restaurants like Bas Rouge, a contemporary European bistro, draw visitors from up and down the East Coast.
Bas Rouge in Easton, MD offers an exquisite European fine dining experience.
MD is a great place to get some classic american fare and vibes.
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The Eastern Shore's natural landscape provides many opportunities for outdoor recreation
For many residents, fishing and boating in the Choptank River or the Chesapeake Bay is a large part of Easton’s appeal. Nature preserves like the Pickering Creek Audubon Center offer the chance to hike many miles of trails while viewing local wildlife in their natural habitat. Opportunities for more structured recreation are also available. “The A. James Clark Sports Complex in North Easton is huge,” Simonelli says. “It has over 26 acres of space that can be used for all different kinds of sports. And Idlewild Park is popular for walking or for picnics.”
Pickering Creek Audubon Center is home to over 250 bird species perfect for birdwatchers.
The Choptank River in Cambridge, MD offers countless outdoor activities from boating to bird watching.
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One major U.S. highway serves this highly walkable city
U.S. Route 50 is the area’s main thoroughfare, connecting northwest to Annapolis and south to Cambridge. The city is very walkable, with a total area of roughly 11 square miles. As Easton is very car-dependent, public transportation options are limited. Bus service, provided by Delmarva Community Transit, is available from 4:15 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on weekdays, and from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturdays.
History and art collide in downtown Easton
Walking tours conducted by the Talbot Historical Society Museum take place every third Saturday. Visitors can also peruse the permanent collection at the Academy Art Museum, which also hosts dances, concerts and lectures throughout the year. The Avalon Foundation operates several live music venues throughout the city, including the restored art deco Avalon Theatre.
Easton, MD has a popular historic district with artsy restaurants and historic architecture like the Talbot Clerk of Circuit Court.
The Frederick Douglass / Liberty mural in Easton, MD represents the communities will to move in the direction of a better world.
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Written By
Hugh Taylor
Photography Contributed By
Jesse Son
Video By
Rebecca Askin
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
John McGlannan,
an experienced agent in this area.
On average, homes in Easton, MD sell after 73 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Easton, MD over the last 12 months is $465,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Nestled in the charming Hunters Mill community, this stunning traditional home offers a perfect blend of comfort and modern living. Built in 2010, this beautifully maintained residence boasts 4 spacious bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms, providing ample space for relaxation and entertaining. The heart of the home features a cozy gas fireplace, perfect for those chilly evenings, creating a warm
Exceptionally well-maintained rancher located on a quiet residential street (Hayward Trail) in the Doncaster community between Easton and St. Michaels. The 3-bedroom, 2-bath home features a spacious dining/family room addition w/fireplace and cathedral ceiling. A breezeway connects the house to a 2-car garage. The back yard is special, with a beautiful swimming pool and covered Tiki Bar/sitting
Waterfront Cottage with Deep Water Dock on 2.3 Private Acres Beautifully maintained one-level waterfront cottage offering privacy, deep-water access, and Eastern Shore charm. Set on 2.3 wooded acres, this home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and an open, comfortable layout. Freshly painted and inspected, the home is move-in ready. The spacious kitchen opens to a large waterside family room
More photos coming soon! Charming Easton Rancher! Lovely 3 bedroom, 2 full-bath rancher perfectly situated near all that the wonderful Town of Easton has to offer. Nestled on over a half-acre lot, this home features a spacious fenced-in backyard surrounded by beautiful mature trees. Recent updates include a new roof and gutters, gorgeous refinished hardwood floors throughout, fresh interior
Beautifully renovated rancher located in close proximity to downtown Easton. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a bright and open floor plan with fresh paint, new flooring throughout, new washer and dryer and both bathrooms updated. The layout includes a dining area and breakfast nook, creating a functional flow ideal for everyday living. Situated on a quiet street with a nicely sized yard, paved
Discover this beautifully renovated end-unit townhouse in the desirable Easton Club with a newly installed roof. perfectly situated at the end of a peaceful street for maximum privacy. Surrounded by lush woodsand mature trees, this home offers a tranquil retreat just minutes from the vibrant heart ofDowntown Easton.Step inside to find a light-filled interior featuring luxury vinyl
Beautiful home on a peaceful, non-through street in desirable Cooke’s Hope---just 10 minutes from the center of Easton. This 3-bedroom, 3 1⁄2 bath residence is entered via a broad, brick porch to center foyer which lends a comfortable spatial flow. The first-floor primary suite features a sitting area, tray ceiling, walk-in closet, and large bath with tiled shower. The living room is pleasingly
Upscale Living in the Heart of Maryland's Eastern ShoreThe Promenade at Easton is a thoughtfully designed community that offers the perfect blend of luxury and convenience. Featuring spacious floorplans, each apartment home includes high-end finishes and essential features such as walk-in closets and full-size washers and dryers. Designed to elevate everyday living, the community provides a host
Solid brick 3 bed 2 bath rancher located on a quiet street behind the hospital. New roof, soffits and gutters, vapor barrier, energy efficient windows and sliding door, updated kitchen with newer appliances. Gravel driveway with street parking as well. Close to the hospital and downtown restaurants and shops. All applicants must apply through Rentspree and be approved prior to showings.
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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