A Southern Maryland town with commuter routes and a close-knit community
Less than 40 miles south of Washington, D.C., La Plata combines a small-town lifestyle with a bustling location as Charles County’s government center. The town was settled in the late 1800s when a passenger train leading to D.C. had a stop here. Though the train tracks now carry cargo, and many of the town’s original 19th-century buildings were destroyed by a 2002 tornado, La Plata still offers a few commuter routes by car and a quaint downtown district. With nearly 11,000 residents, it also has a close-knit atmosphere. “When you meet someone, it’s all about figuring out who their family is and what their lineage is in town,” says Kate Balaban, a librarian at the Charles County Public Library who was born and raised in La Plata. “It’s the kind of place where you know everyone, but we’re still growing because there’s new housing and great shopping.”
Incorporated in 1888 and the Charles County seat, LaPlata has a population of 10,054.
Come to LaPlata and enjoy a small town feel at Marie's Diner.
Bird City Records is the only true record shop in southern Maryland.
Shaved Ice at the LaPlata Farmers Market, LaPlata Md.
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Houses sell for less than D.C. metropolitan area’s median price
Most homes in La Plata were built between the 1980s and 2020s. Ranch-style homes, Colonial Revivals and New Traditional houses are all common here. The median single-family home price is $475,000, slightly higher than Charles County’s $435,000. However, this is less than the D.C. metropolitan area’s median price of $600,000. Townhouses can cost between $300,000 and $500,000.
Based on 2023 data from the Maryland State Police, there were 780 violent crimes per 100,000 people in Charles County, compared to Maryland’s rate of 1,020 per 100,000 people. The county’s property crime rate was 1,806 per 100,000, less than Maryland's figure of 3,053.
LaPlata has good schools quiet neighborhoods, and plenty of amenities.
Townhomes in LaPlata are available and there is no grass cutting.
Ranch homes offer single level living in LaPlata.
Colonial Revival homes line the edge of the parks in LaPlata.
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Commute to D.C. via U.S. Route 301 or by VanGo bus
Though La Plata is home to major employers like the Charles County government headquarters and The University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center, Balaban says locals still commute for work. “Charles County is a commuter county. Most people work in D.C., and some even commute up to Baltimore.” U.S. Route 301 at La Plata’s core connects to Maryland state Routes 225, 229 and 210, making D.C. a 36-mile drive north. The drive can take one to two hours, depending on traffic. Baltimore is a 67-mile drive northeast on Maryland State Route 5. The town’s original train tracks still exist, but they are now a part of a CSX freight route. Traffic occasionally stops on streets that intersect with the tracks. Several VanGo bus stops are in the area. The stop outside the Walmart Supercenter on Drury Drive follows a route directly into D.C. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is 36 miles north, while Dulles International Airport is 60 miles northwest.
Route 301 in La Plata travels North and South all the way from Delaware and Florida
VanGo buses in LaPlata can get you around if you need.
University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center is in La Plata.
Charles County Courthouse is located in downtown La Plata.
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La Plata rebuilt after a 2002 tornado
Residents can expect all four seasons, with humid summers and mild winters. La Plata has experienced a few tornadoes, but the most recent one was in 2002. Considered the worst tornado in Maryland’s history, it earned an F4 rating and caused over $100 million worth of damage. Tornado sirens are now tested twice a year.
The tornado destroyed most of La Plata’s original downtown district along Charles Street, but a few historic structures still stand, like the Episcopal Christ Church, which has been in the area since 1884. There are also several Greek Revival-style Charles County government buildings and some restaurants along the street. Grocery stores and other nationally recognized retailers sit on U.S. Route 301. St. Charles Towne Center has over 100 stores, less than 8 miles north of La Plata.
Four state highways serve the town of LaPlata and make it simple to get around.
LaPlata has a small town feel but big town amenities.
With it's colorful buildings, LaPlata is a cheerful place.
With plenty of neighborhoods full of larger New Traditional homes LaPlata has plenty of space.
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Home to Charles County Public Schools, private schools and a college
La Plata is in the Charles County Public Schools system, graded a B-plus by Niche. There are two elementary schools, one middle school and one high school in town. The Catholic Archbishop Neale School and Grace Lutheran School are both private options for kindergarten through eighth grade. The College of Southern Maryland offers associate degrees and workforce training.
LaPlata High School, LaPlata Md.
Milton M. Somers Middle School in LaPlata is rated a B on Niche.
St Charles High School in White Plains is great at getting you ready for college.
Mary Matula Elementary School, La Plata Md
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Soccer, fishing and camping at La Plata parks
There are nine parks in La Plata. A mile-long trail connects Laurel Springs Regional Park, home to playgrounds and soccer fields, with Tilghman Lake Park’s catch-and-release fishing docks and RV camping spots. The home stadium for the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs minor league baseball team is 6 miles east, and several parks sit along the Potomac River, about 12 miles west. There are also a few indoor community hubs, like the Charles County Public Library, which hosts regular craft workshops and preschool story times.
Enjoy a quiet bike ride or a stroll on the Indian Head Rail Trail in White Plains.
White Plains Regional Park Golf Course has Bermuda grass fairways and manicured greens.
Bring other picklers to White Plains Regional Park for a game of Pickleball.
Regency Furniture Stadium in White Plains is home to the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs Baseball.
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The annual La Plata Bed Races and a twice-a-week farmers market
La Plata hosts several community events. After the tornado, Celebrate La Plata marked the town’s rebuilding period. Today, live music, local food vendors and carnival rides outside of the town hall continue the event every April. The day ends with the La Plata Bed Races, where locals decorate beds on wheels and push them down La Grange Avenue. The La Plata Farmers Market is held from April through November. It’s outside the Charles County Courthouse on Saturdays, and in the parking lot at the intersection of Talbot Street and Washington Avenue on Wednesdays.
LaPlata Farmers Market, LaPlata Md.
LaPlata Farmers Market, LaPlata Md.
LaPlata Farmers Market, LaPlata Md.
Food Trucks at the LaPlata Farmers Market, LaPlata Md.
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Written By
Meghan Baker
Photography Contributed By
Jesse Snyder
Video By
Jacob McAllister
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Melvin Yates,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in La Plata, MD sell after 42 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in La Plata, MD over the last 12 months is $456,500, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Stunningly Beautiful, End Unit, Townhome, in the heart of La Plata. Its decorated with taste, wonderfully renovated and loaded with upgrades: gleaming hardwood/Pergo flooring, custom tile , step down into the family room which offers high ceilings, step up into a dinning room that's large enough for a table and China cabinet, updated kitchen with white cabinets and high end appliances, breakfast
8425 Mausen Lane is a one-of-a-kind custom home tucked privately among the trees, offering a peaceful retreat with exceptional space, architectural character, and endless possibilities. Surrounded by nature and thoughtfully designed with expansive living areas, soaring ceilings, and walls of windows, this home was built to bring the outdoors in while offering the comfort and functionality today’s
GET 1% towards your closing fees with this home or 1 year FREE buy down on your interest rate :) If you like the feel of a newer community but want a home that is already ready for you, 156 Wood Walk Avenue is worth a closer look. This beautiful La Plata home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 full bathrooms, a 2-car garage, and approximately 1,665sqft of thoughtfully designed living space. It has the clean,
MUST SEE HOME!! Beautifully maintained and move-in ready, this spacious two-story home is tucked away on a peaceful cul-de-sac in the sought-after Jamestowne neighborhood, offering convenient access to Routes 301 and 210. The main level features newly installed luxury vinyl plank flooring, neutral paint, and thoughtfully designed living spaces throughout. The kitchen is appointed with maple
This is NOT your average townhome. Way better than new construction -NO EXISE TAX *** 3.375% ASSUMABLE VA LOAN. Sellers have upraded nearly every aspect of this home: be prepared to be BLOWN AWAY with beautiful custom built-ins, high-end selections, new lighting and ceiling fans, gorgeous wood wall coverings, real wood plantation blinds, and a newly renovated primary ensuite with timeless
Welcome to 548 Swift Heron Ave — a stunning, newly constructed home that perfectly blends modern design, functional space, and everyday comfort. Quietly situated in a new development, this home offers easy access to downtown La Plata and Waldorf, with convenient travel along Route 301 for an effortless commute. With 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and three thoughtfully designed levels, this home delivers
Welcome to this stunning 3 bedroom, 3 bath brick front Augusta Villa located in the highly sought-after Villages of Steeplechase community. This model is great for buyers looking for one-level living, with a basement. This home is situated on the back side of the property with no thru traffic, and includes a tranquil wooded backdrop from your deck. This home has been thoughtfully upgraded
This almost new, beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 3 full bath Augusta Villa is located in the highly sought-after Villages of Steeplechase—a resort-style community offering HOA-supported exterior maintenance, a community pool, fitness center, walking and bike trails for easy, low-maintenance living with real lifestyle value. This model is great for buyers looking for one-level living with a
The Pine is a 1,964 square foot open concept home, offering four bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms and a two-car garage. A foyer with a powder room and coat closet greets you as you enter this home. The open floorplan allows you and your loved ones to spend quality time together while in the living room, casual dining area and kitchen. The spacious kitchen has a large island with room for
The Hayden is a spacious two-story layout featuring 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms within 2,511 square feet of living space. On the main level, you'll find a versatile flex room near the foyer, perfect for a formal dining area or a home office. The gourmet kitchen boasts an expansive island for extra seating, a generous pantry, and opens up to the dining space and a roomy living area. A bedroom with
The Cabral, a 1,665 square foot open concept two-story home, offers three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, a loft and a two-car garage. As you make your way from the front porch into the foyer you will find a convenient first-floor powder room and coat closet. Past the foyer is the large, open concept living room that flows nicely into the eat-in kitchen that overlooks the casual dining area
The Penwell is a two-story plan with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms in 2,148 square feet. The main level features a chef-inspired kitchen with an oversized island and walk-in pantry, as well as a flex room that’s ideal for a formal dining room or home office. The kitchen opens onto a spacious living room, perfect for the entertainer. The owner’s suite on the second level offers a luxurious owner’s
Introducing our brand-new ranch design, The Bristol. This floorplan starts at 1,748 square feet, offering 9 foot ceilings, a primary suite with a connected full luxury bathroom with double vanities and walk-in closet. In the front of the home - two spacious bedrooms that share a full bathroom, an open kitchen layout overlooking the living, dining room & covered porch. Create the entertainment
Expansive 3-Acre Lot in La Plata, MD!Seize the opportunity to own this impressive 3-acre vacant lot in Charles County, near 7710 Bumpy Oak. Perfect for building your dream home or as an investment, this spacious property offers endless possibilities. Enjoy the serenity of this beautiful setting while still being close to local amenities, schools, and major highways. Dont miss your chance to
The Adams townhome design by D.R. Horton offers a cozy and modern living space, spanning 1,889 sq. ft., featuring 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a 1-car garage. This home includes top-of-the-line finishes, such as quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and recessed lighting in the kitchen. Customize the lower level bonus space into a rec room, home office, or 4th bedroom to suit your
Beautiful 3brick-front carriage oversized townhouse situated in a sought-after Agricopia subdivision in LaPlata MD. This 3-level townhouse features 4 Bedrooms, 3 full baths and half bath open floor plan boasts over 2400 sq ft. The entire home is freshly painted. The main level has vinyl plank flooring all through-out, a half bath and separate Living & Dining Room with a beautiful bay window. The
Discover one of the newest apartment communities in the LaPlata, MD area. Come and experience world class premium apartment amenities both inside and outside your home. Choose from 5 of our beautiful floorplans, all equipped with gourmet kitchens and find the perfect home for your lifestyle.
Come and experience luxury living at Rosewick Apartments. Welcome home to our four-story elevator luxury apartments in LaPlata, MD. This community has everything you've been looking for in the perfect location. Located in Charles County, Rosewick Apartments has convenient access to US-301, College of Southern Maryland, Charles County Fairgrounds, and the UM Charles Regional Medical Center. Enjoy
Experience the height of suburban living in La Plata, Maryland. Located in Charles County, our garden-style apartments prepare you for modern living with access to all the features and comforts you need, plus a variety of options for fun. Each two bedroom layout gives you the space you need to work from home, settle in and relax, or invite your friends for a lazy-day hangout. Open your front
Property Id: 2565995Ample closets plus 1 large primary suite with double walk-in closet & en-suite bathroom with ceramic tile, step in shower and a soaker tub.Equipped with an alarm system powered by Vivint includes thermostat, door camera with keyless entry, backdoor camera. All can be controlled through the app (bill $45 to $50 per month).Engineered hardwood throughout the
New Construction: This luxury brick-front town home features 3 levels of upscale, in-town living. It has 3 bedrooms and 3 1/2 bathrooms, gourmet kitchen with granite counters and stainless steel appliances, wall to wall carpeting with laminate flooring on the main level, master bedroom with master bath, recreation room on first level, deck, attached two car garage, 10 x 16 trek deck and so much
3 level townhome located in the popular Quailwood subdivision in La Plata! Main level features living/dining/kitchen and half bath. Upstairs you will find 2 very spacious bedrooms and 2 full baths. Basement has a large finished room which could easily be used as a third bedroom or would make a great additional living space or office. Basement also features plenty of storage space. Washer & Dryer
Property Id: 2479366House Rental in La Plata, Charles County.I have a 4 bedroom, 3.5 baths, 2 car garage available for rent on 2 May 2026, it’s going for $3200A brand new community with access to shops, schools and commute roads.All applicants would be required to complete tenant screening.
Beautiful, extremely roomy Townhome in the town of La Plata. This 4 bedroom 3 and a half bath home is stunning with an open layout with high end amenities and luxury vinyl hardwood floors. The kitchen boasts stainless appliances, large family sized kitchen island with beautiful quartz countertops with a nice outdoor deck space. There is a bathroom on each level for added convenience. The
Location, Location, Location... The large beautifully kept home located in the sought after Hickory Ridge, is ready for you to call it home.This property is a Duplex. There is over 3,000 sqft of living space. The large home has a finished basement, which could be easily a 4th bedroom, Primary bedroom is on the Main Floor, with 2 spacious bedrooms on the Upper Floor.. Deck off the kitchen to enjoy
Amazing, like new well-maintained end unit Townhouse in most desired area of La Plata- Hickory Ridge. Close to school, shopping and downtown area. The property is a large end-unit with rear entry one (1) car garage and unfinished basement area providing ample storage. Private off street two -car parking pad on side of house'Custom deck with privacy screening. 18 ft Cathedral ceilings spanning
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