Annapolis is the capital city and largest metropolitan area in Maryland.
It was founded in 1649 and officially incorporated into the American colonies in 1708, making it one of the oldest cities in the United States.
It was the site of one of the oldest universities as well as the Confederation Congress of the 1780s.
Today, Annapolis is known as the site of the US Naval Academy and an important maritime city.
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Pros of Living in Annapolis
1. It Feels Like a Small Town
Many people feel that Annapolis offers the feel of a small town despite its metropolitan size.
Most buildings are under three stories tall, avoiding the worst of congested city skylines.
Some trees and greenery throughout add to this aesthetic.
Escaping from the hustle and bustle is surprisingly easy in Annapolis.
If you want to live in a city but wish you didn’t have to deal with the crowds or clutter, Annapolis might be a good choice for you.
2. There is Delicious Cuisine
Annapolis has tons of delicious food options to choose from.
Restaurants of all varieties can be found in the city.
From fantastic pizzerias and taco shops to seafood and barbecue, Annapolis has much to offer.
Plus, the city has some unique and highly rated cafes with vibes all their own.
And of course, like any good town on the Eastern seaboard, the city offers stellar seafood options.
3. The Local Economy is Strong
While Annapolis may not look like a big and mighty city from its skyline, it’s an industry staple.
The median annual household income is almost $84,000 with almost a fifth of households earning from $100,000 to $150,000 annually.
Annapolis is home to many retail and accommodations businesses, mining, and industrial equipment development.
The proximity to the coast also means a strong local maritime industry, too.
4. The Great Outdoors is Right Nearby
Annapolis has a beautiful, charming environment featuring striking attractions and lots of fun activities.
The William Paca House and Garden are simply stunning for their seasonal displays.
And the Quiet Waters Park offers 340 acres of trails, paths, and open fields.
You are also close to a wide variety of beaches and forests, depending on which direction you take.
This is a great middle ground between a purely urban or rural area.
5. You’re Close to The Water
Annapolis has a spectacular waterfront with pretty easy access.
Charming beaches and exciting sailing trips are all over.
Visitors and residents can go kayaking or explore coral reefs.
Many people enjoy fishing on the waterfront as well as on the small creeks throughout town.
These aspects of Annapolis are some of its strongest elements, especially in the warm season.
It makes sense that the city is called the sailing capital of the world!
6. There is an Active Sports Scene
Annapolis has numerous sports teams and regular events.
The United States Naval Academy plays lacrosse, football, and baseball, and these games are popular to attend
. The city is also full of local boating clubs and waterfront activities for those who prefer watersports.
Known as a sailing and boating capital, Annapolis has numerous marinas for boats of all sizes.
7. There is Art And Culture Galore
Annapolis has lots to offer fans of cultural, artistic, and social activities.
There are year-round events of all kinds to experience, many of them for people of all ages.
Plays, dances, concerts, comedy shows, Renaissance festivals, and tons of local art exhibits are enough to keep almost any aficionado content.
The Banneker-Douglass Museum is one great destination, where you can learn about black history in Annapolis.
8. The School Systems Are Above Average
Annapolis has schools that generally perform higher than the national and state averages.
City school districts have been working to make major improvements in recent years.
College enrollment is also higher in Annapolis than in the average city in Maryland.
With a student-to-teacher ratio of 15-to-1, the city school systems offer a relatively balanced classroom setting.
Cons of Living in Annapolis
1. The Cost of Living is High
Annapolis has a higher cost of living than other places in Maryland.
This makes sense since most of the population is paid higher on average than in many areas.
The median home costs upwards of $473,000 and rent averages around $1,800 per month.
Integrated public transit on the city’s gridded streets helps cut transportation costs.
Housing is the most significant factor in the higher cost of living.
2. Tax Rates Are High
Annapolis has higher tax rates than other comparable cities, including higher property taxes.
This is partially due to its proximity to the waterfront.
Additionally, some areas in the city are charged certain fees to pay for preserving waterways.
This can lead some locals to move outside the city proper to find cheaper taxes or housing costs.
If you are looking for a home in Annapolis, you can expect it to get expensive
3. The Roads Get Congested
Annapolis has hardly changed in appearance or fundamental infrastructure in its more than 300-year existence.
This includes not only many of its buildings but its roads, too.
Being located on a peninsula makes for even heavier congestion since many commuters must go into and out of work each day.
You can expect a tedious commute if you live here.
4. High Crime Rates
Annapolis, unfortunately, suffers from a crime rate higher than the national average.
This can be explained in large part by poverty, infrastructure inequities, the high cost of living, and other sociological factors.
While some neighborhoods in the city are more dangerous than others, this can also come with a higher price tag.
On average, the crime rate in Annapolis is roughly 28 percent higher than the national average.
5. It Gets Humid
Maryland during the summer can be intense and Annapolis is no exception.
Surrounded by so much water and wetland, Annapolis summers are hot and humid.
The air remains heavy for most of the warmer months.
Areas near the waterfront can deal with some pesky mosquito populations.
While this is only a problem during certain times of the year, it can make for sticky summers.
6. Floods Pose a Major Problem
Being in such a watery location has plenty of benefits but one of the major drawbacks is flooding.
Annapolis is built on a low slab of land that has only become more problematic with climate change.
Flooding is currently and will continue to be a problem for residents during the rainy season, with climate projections anticipating exacerbation from sea level rise.
7. It Can Feel Dull
Annapolis has lots of features and amenities but it is no New York City.
For people used to an extremely busy, bustling city that’s always on the move, Annapolis may get a bit dull.
Part of the small-town atmosphere means that there’s plenty of downtime for residents to relax.
This isn’t everyone’s preference, so some may find Annapolis a little too on the small side.
8. Parking is a Hassle
Parking in Annapolis can be a real chore.
The city has a strong and growing tourism sector, as well as a growing population and economy.
This means that it can feel a bit competitive looking for parking space.
Most vacant spots require a parking permit. For some, public transit can reduce or even eliminate this issue, but not everyone will want to make the change.
If you don’t have private parking, you may lose a lot of money on parking expenses.
Pros and Cons of Living in Annapolis, MD – Summary Table
| Pros of Living in Annapolis | Cons of Living in Annapolis |
|---|---|
| 1. It Feels Like a Small Town | 1. The Cost of Living is High |
| 2. There is Delicious Cuisine | 2. Tax Rates Are High |
| 3. The Local Economy is Strong | 3. The Roads Get Congested |
| 4. The Great Outdoors is Right Nearby | 4. High Crime Rates |
| 5. You’re Close to The Water | 5. It Gets Humid |
| 6. There is an Active Sports Scene | 6. Floods Pose a Major Problem |
| 7. There is Art And Culture Galore | 7. It Can Feel Dull |
| 8. The School Systems Are Above Average | 8. Parking is a Hassle |
Conclusion
If you are considering moving to Annapolis, expect to find a fun and unique environment.
This city has an impressive history, with a growing job market and many things to do.
However, it can also be an expensive and crowded place to live.
There are many pros and cons to consider before you make your move!
Annapolis Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Annapolis Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: LOW
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Annapolis Get Snow?
Annapolis gets an average of 12 inches of snow every year.
However, this can vary significantly from month to month.
The first snowfall usually occurs around Thanksgiving, with the snowy season continuing until late March.
February is the snowiest month, with about 5.6 inches of snow on average.
What Kind of Jobs Are in Annapolis?
Annapolis’ job market is growing, though it still has a city unemployment rate that is higher than the national average.
The biggest employment industries in the city include accommodation and food services, healthcare and social assistance, manufacturing, technical services, retail, transportation, cybersecurity, tourism, real estate, and maritime operations.
Is Annapolis Expensive?
Annapolis is a fairly expensive city in which to live, especially considering the cost of housing.
The cost of living is 33 percent higher on average than the national average.
Housing is the most significant factor in the high cost of living, though food, utilities, and other general expenses also affect this.
What is Annapolis Known For?
Annapolis is known for its historic role in the development of the sailing and crabbing industries.
It is also known as the home of the United States Naval Academy and St. John’s College, one of the oldest universities in the country.
The college was founded in 1696 and was originally called King William’s School.
Why is Annapolis Called Nap Town?
You may have heard Annapolis nicknamed Nap Town, but the origins of the nickname aren’t exactly clear.
It may be a reference to an early form of jazz, or a simple shortening of the city’s syllables.
However, some people take offense to the nickname, which they feel implies that Annapolis is boring.
Many prefer the city’s more recent nickname, Crab Town.
My dad used to take me here for sailing and I think if someone really has a hobby of sailing, you will enjoy living here.
It’s a great place to live if you can afford it and don’t mind a slower pace of life.
Annapolis, MD offers the best of both worlds with its small town feel and metropolitan amenities.