It is widely known that Maryland is a fantastic place to live! Maryland has a number of outstanding places to live. Are you looking for a rural or urban area? Maryland offers the best of both worlds!
Facts about Ellicott City
Moving to Maryland provides excellent opportunities for many families, young professionals, and retirees. Different cities and towns in this area offer many great possibilities, prominent schools, and an ever-growing job market.
Ellicott City has been on the list of best places in Maryland for a long time. Ellicott City has a longer average commute than other cities in the area, but it’s still one of Maryland’s most popular and desirable communities.
Discover with Zip Moving & Storage what makes Ellicott City a fantastic place to live!
Where is Ellicott City?
Ellicott City is located in the Howard County region of eastern Maryland, just 30 minutes from Baltimore and about 40 miles northeast of Washington, D.C.
The downtown area lies in the valleys of two beautiful rivers: Patapsco and Tiber. On the south, Ellicott City meets Columbia, and on the east side Frederick/River Road, making it a perfect place for many families and young professionals commuting to their jobs regularly.
A brief history of Ellicott City
Ellicott City is an unincorporated community founded in 1772 by the Quaker brothers (Joseph, Andrew, and John Ellicott), who owned Ellicott’s Mills. Today this wonderful community of more than 70,000 people features a historic railway and many great restaurants and successful businesses.
The history of this vibrant city goes way back. Today’s thriving community was established during the milling industry in the late 1700s.
Everything started when the Ellicott brothers decided to launch a flour mill. Their business idea proved quite successful because Ellicott Mills became one of the best and largest manufacturing places.
The brothers were also head of their time, revolutionizing the farming industry and introducing new fertilizations and techniques. They also had a way with people, efficiently pursuing them to plant wheat instead of tobacco.
Today, the station is the oldest surviving railroad station in America and represents a historic landmark and a living museum. Our advice is to visit it if you get a chance, you won’t regret it!
Population and demographics of Ellicott City
According to recent data, Ellicott City has a population of 77,969. This lovely city is growing, and its population has increased by 2.66% since the most recent census.
- Average household income: $157,034
- Median rental costs: $1,672 per month
- Median house value: $546,700
The median age in Ellicott City is around 40 years old. Ellicott City is incredibly diverse, creating a wonderful place where many different cultures come together.
The cost of living in Ellicott City is 45% higher than the national average. Still, the entire area is one of the best places to live in Maryland, and the cost of living depends on many factors, such as career choice, the real estate market, and the schools you decide to attend.
On the other hand, Ellicott City has an excellent healthcare system that is surprisingly 19% lower than the national average.
Regarding the real estate market, the typical home value in Ellicott City is around $664,727. Inflation has never been higher, so naturally, that affects the real estate market daily. The home values in this city have gone up 9.3% over the past year.
The climate in Ellicott City
In Ellicott City, you get the best of both worlds. Ellicott City is perfect for summer lovers because summers in this area can be hot, sunny, and humid.
However, Ellicott City usually has harsh winter conditions if you are a winter enthusiast. Winters are known to be cold, snowy, and windy.
The hot season lasts for 3 to 4 months with an average daily temperature above 78°F. July is typically the hottest month in Ellicott City, followed by June and August.
Distance from Ellicott City to Nearby Cities
- Ellicott City → Ilchester: 2.4 miles
- Ellicott City → Lansdowne: 10 miles
- Ellicott City → Baltimore: 14 miles
- Ellicott City → Washington, D.C.: 40 miles
Best neighborhoods in Ellicott City
If you are considering relocating to Ellicott City, having a list of the best neighborhoods in the area can be immensely helpful. That’s why we have selected some popular areas that offer their residents everything they need for an excellent and thriving lifestyle.
Ellicott City has 18 constituent neighborhoods, making it the seventh largest community in Maryland. The most desirable areas tend to be in the city’s western regions, and more affordable homes can be found in the northeast.
Gray Rock Farm
By FlugKerl2 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
The area is famous because of the iconic Gray Rock Farm, a magnificent working farm of 404 acres. Gray Rock Farm is a popular development in Ellicott City, famous for villa-style homes with gorgeous exteriors and balconies.
Today, the Font Hill Manor is one of the most recognizable symbols of Gray Rock Farm, a place that still guards a unique spirit of old times. Gray Rock Farm is one of the most popular districts in Ellicott City, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit and live.
This development is also famous for its lively and close-knit community. In this area, you will be able to have the thriving lifestyle you have always dreamed of!
Montgomery Meadows
The Montgomery Meadows neighborhood is famous for its triangular-shaped community borders. It was established in the 1980s and, over the years, has developed to be one of Ellicott City’s most prestigious districts.
This vibrant community offers its residents gorgeous landscapes and spacious parks. Montgomery Meadows also has a community swimming pool, dog park, tennis park, and Blohm Park, a place perfect for walking and enjoying nature.
Living in this area can bring many benefits, including friendly neighbors and great schools!
Font Hill
This popular neighborhood is ideal for expanding families. Font Hill features gorgeous single-family homes, and it also has excellent school options. If you are a fan of the historical atmosphere, this district can be the perfect choice for you and your family.
The sense of community is strong in Font Hill, meaning you will feel safe living in this neighborhood. There is even Hill Neighborhood Association, an organization that promotes goodwill and empathy in the entire community.
Font Hill is truly a safe and wonderful place that can offer you many excellent opportunities. Font Hill amenities include:
- Stunning Garden Club
- Christmas Lights Car Parade
- Spacious Wetlands Park
Best schools in Ellicott City
Ellicott City is a remarkable place, full of excellent school options. Knowledge is power, and it seems that many residents of Ellicott City know that very well. Almost 67% of the adults in the city have a college degree, master’s degree, and even Ph.Ds!
Academic success is something many people living in Ellicott City strive to achieve. This has created an excellent public school district and a sizeable educated adult population.
Worthington Elementary School
Worthington Elementary School is ranked as the 4th best public school in Baltimore. Nearly 80% of students scored at or above the proficient level for math, and 73% scored at or above the proficient level for reading.
The school created a close-knit community that deeply cares about each individual. Every child has an equal chance to succeed.
Marriotts Ridge High School
By JBoulin94 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Marriotts Ridge High School is the number 1 best public school in the Baltimore area, and that speaks volumes about their hard work and dedication to all of their students. This school has been ranked 12th in Maryland.
The school is part of the Howard County Public School System and has a Computer Science club, Academic team, Journalism team, and Science Olympiad club.
Every student is encouraged to pursue their passion and interests. Professional and experienced teachers are there with them every step, guiding and helping them.
Centennial High School
By Wallstreethotrod at English Wikipedia - Own work, Public Domain, Link
Another great school in Ellicott City that provides its students with everything they need for academic success is Centennial High School. The school is ranked 16th in Maryland. Centennial High School has exceptional reviews, its employees are professional and helpful, and the administration is on point.
Ellicott City Job Market
Ellicott City is full of fantastic business opportunities, making this city a perfect place for many young professionals and business people. Its proximity to Washington, D.C., means many people regularly commute to work.
Companies like Lorien Health Services, Howard Bank, and Wilkins Rogers Mills are just some of the locally grown businesses created in Ellicott City. The city’s largest employer is Howard County Public School System, with more than 8,400 employees.
The companies that offer other great jobs in Ellicott City are MedStar health, Deloitte, and Johns Hopkins University. Full-time jobs are the most common, but with a bit of luck, you will be able to find well-paid jobs that are part-time as well.
Ellicott City is growing and expanding rapidly. That also affects the job market, making it bigger and accessible to more employees. You will be able to find outstanding job opportunities in this town.
Best restaurants in Ellicott City
There are many unique and popular dining options in Ellicott City. The gastro scene is utterly fabulous! Different cuisines, spices, and flavors combine to create the most delicious meals imaginable.
Stella Notte
Who doesn’t like Italian dishes? Stella Notte is a superb Italian restaurant that will catapult you straight to the heart of Italy. You will probably forget about your actual surroundings for a second!
Stella Notte will bring you a piece of Italy, and you will be able to enjoy those fantastic Italian flavors with your friends and family.
It is located in a shopping center, and its menu features seafood and delicious pasta! Don’t forget to check out their glass terrace filled with colorful flowers and plants, a perfect place for a romantic date!
Location: 8809 Baltimore National Pike
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Shin Chon Garden
Are you a fan of Korean food? If the answer is yes, then Shin Chon Garden is one of the best options for Asian cuisine. This popular restaurant offers tasty pork and beef options. We recommend you also try sake, as well as Korean rice wine! These are some of the most popular dishes:
- Korean BBQ
- Steamed egg
- Pork belly
Location: 8801 Baltimore National Pike
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Yama Sushi Bar
Yama Sushi Bar is a dream come true! The sushi is always fresh and delicious. They also serve quality wine and have incredible lunch specials. You can order takeout or enjoy your meal in the restaurant.
Location: 4725-G Dorsey Hall Drive
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Tersiguel’s French Country Restaurant
This lovely French restaurant is located in the heart of the Ellicott Historic District. It is also one of the best fine-dining places in the area. You can enjoy traditional European dishes with delicious cocktails, as the restaurant also has a fantastic cocktail bar.
The wine card is pretty impressive too. France is known for its excellent food, and Tersiguel’s restaurant will bring you one step closer to feeling like you are in France.
Location: 8293 Main St
Ellicott City, MD 21043
Alexandra’s Restaurant
Of course, our little list wouldn’t be complete without including an American fusion restaurant. We would also recommend this excellent restaurant to all golf lovers because the restaurant has a beautiful deck overlooking a golf course. The menu is filled with tasty dishes, and many of them include meat produced from local farms.
The restaurant also offers a happy hour special from Monday – Friday (5 pm to 7 pm), so check them out! We are sure you won’t regret it.
Location: 2700 Turf Valley Rd
Ellicott City, MD 21042
Is moving to Ellicott City a good idea?
Ellicott City is a lovely city with a large diversity and many beautiful places to visit. Lush green trees, rich wildlife, and rolling hills are part of mesmerizing scenery in Ellicott City. There are plenty of fun things to do and unusual spots to explore!
The city also offers plenty of job opportunities and an excellent healthcare system. What more could you ask for?
If you are considering relocating to Ellicott City, we have good news! Our experienced Ellicott City movers are there to help you every step of the way. Contact us today and get your free quote!
