What to know when moving to Dundalk, MD
TL;DR: Dundalk at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 36.6% of residents are renters and the median household income is $61,934.
- The Major Draw:
- Affordable housing with median gross rent at $1,390.
- The Reality Check:
- 18.2% of residents live below the poverty line.
- Commute:
- Only 4.2% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for about 140 rainy days a year, so consider investing in good rain gear.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Dundalk has a population of 58,935, with a significant portion of the community being renters, which reflects a renter percentage of 36.6%. The education level is modest, with only 13.5% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The area faces challenges, including an 18.2% poverty rate, which may impact community dynamics.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a highly educated community or a robust public transit system, as only 4.2% commute via public transit.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,390, making it relatively affordable.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $200,800.
- Poverty rate stands at 18.2%, indicating economic challenges in the area.
- 36.6% of the population are renters, suggesting a significant rental market.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Maryland's crime statistics indicate a mixed safety landscape. The state has a violent crime rate of 351.9 per 100,000 residents, which is slightly higher than the national average. However, the violent crime rate has decreased by 18.7% since 2022.
- Violent crime rate: 351.9 per 100k vs. national average of 325.3.
- Property crime rate: 1,817.5 per 100k, above the national average of 1,546.9.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate decreased by 47.8% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Maryland).
Schools & Higher Ed
Dundalk residents have access to 25 postsecondary institutions within the nearby area, including several notable schools.
- Community College of Baltimore County
- Towson University
- Goucher College
- Baltimore City Community College
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations (NCES) + College Scorecard (ED).
Weather & Getting Outside
Baltimore County experiences about 40.8 inches of rainfall annually, with around 140 rainy days. Snowfall is minimal, averaging just 2.1 inches per year.
- Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine - 4.8 stars (6,738 reviews)
- Patterson Park - 4.6 stars (4,886 reviews)
- Druid Hill Park - 4.5 stars (4,193 reviews)
- The Walters Art Museum - 4.8 stars (3,802 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.