What to know when moving to Severn, MD
TL;DR: Severn at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated ZIP where 43.5% hold a bachelor's degree and 18.7% of residents rent.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $132,820, providing a strong financial base for residents.
- The Reality Check:
- Only 3% of commuters use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median gross rent of $1,958, which could impact your housing choices.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Severn has a population of 37,372, with a significant portion being homeowners. The median gross rent of $1,958 suggests that housing is on the pricier side, which aligns with the high median household income of $132,820. The low poverty rate of 4.7% and a notable education level, where 43.5% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, reflect a community that values education and financial stability.
Probably not your spot if: you prefer a strong public transit system, as only 3% of residents commute this way.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,958, making it essential to plan your budget accordingly.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $468,400, indicating a competitive housing market.
- 43.5% of the population holds a bachelor's degree, contributing to a highly educated community.
- The poverty rate is low at 4.7%, suggesting a relatively stable economic environment.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime data indicates that Maryland's property crime rate stands at 1,817.5 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 1,546.9. However, the violent crime rate is lower than the national average, at 351.9 per 100,000 compared to 325.3 nationally. Notably, the homicide rate has decreased by 47.8% from 2022 to 2025.
- Violent crime: 351.9 per 100,000 vs. national rate of 325.3.
- Property crime: 1,817.5 per 100,000 vs. national rate 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
In the Severn area, there are 17 postsecondary institutions, including notable options nearby. This includes Anne Arundel Community College and Strayer University-Anne Arundel Campus, providing accessible education within reach.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 17.
- Institutions with College Scorecard data: 14.
- Nearby options include: Anne Arundel Community College and Strayer University-Anne Arundel Campus.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Anne Arundel County experiences an average annual precipitation of 47.7 inches over 118 rainy days. The area sees minimal snowfall, averaging just 1.5 inches annually across 8 snow days.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Centennial Park (4.7 stars, 4,666 reviews)
- Kinder Farm Park (4.8 stars, 1,819 reviews)
- Lake Waterford Park (4.6 stars, 1,653 reviews)
- Oriole Park at Camden Yards (4.7 stars, 13,389 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Anne Arundel County, the unemployment rate is currently at 3.1%, with a labor force of 313,974. This indicates a healthy job market with 304,183 individuals employed.
- Unemployment rate: 3.1% (December 2025).
- Employed: 304,183.
- Labor force: 313,974.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.