4 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Bethesda

While Bethesda, Maryland, is one of the best-known suburbs of Washington, D.C., it has an identity and vibe of its own that makes it stand out in several ways. Yes, it is an attractive suburb for government workers who make the short drive or jump on the Metro to the capital city. But it’s also favored by people who live and work within its borders just eight miles northwest of D.C.

Bethesda has a population of about 65,000 and isn’t just another bedroom community. It has its own vibrant core that is home to many upscale restaurants, nightspots, and trendy shops favored by the affluent and well-educated people who live there. And locals can find everything right there without having to go into Washington or other suburbs.

The median cost of homes in Bethesda is $1.1 million, and it’s considered a seller’s market, meaning more people are looking than homes available. People looking at homes in the various neighborhoods in Bethesda should hire an experienced real estate agent to help navigate through the process toward the best possible deal.

Fort Sumner was named for the Civil War fort that stood in the area until it was torn down in 1956 to make room for new houses.

Outdoor enthusiasts love Fort Sumner because the C&O towpath and Capital Crescent Trail are nearby, providing a safe place to jog and hike, as well as bike throughout the area, including to Georgetown.

There’s a nice variety of cuisine in Fort Sumner, ranging from Italian fare at Gregorio's Trattoria to the Asian bistro and bar Passion Fin, to the Praline Bakery & Bistro and Duck Duck Goose, an intimate restaurant that serves French classics.

Residents can send their children to many schools in the area, Manor Montessori School and Wood Acres Elementary School.

Fort Sumner is known for several different styles of homes, including Cape Cods and Colonials.

It is one of the best neighborhoods in Bethesda in terms of a strong sense of community. Residents celebrate Halloween with a parade and block parties and decorate their sidewalks with beautiful luminarias during Christmas.

Westgate is a small, cozy, and affluent neighborhood that borders Washington, D.C. It is extremely convenient for commuters who need to drive into the city for work every day.

Westgate is close to both the Capital Crescent Trail and the Little Falls Trail, which are favored by runners, bikers, and hikers. Some residents use the trails to bike to work.

Great restaurants either in or near Westgate include Raku in Bethesda Row, which offers Asian fare in a modern setting; Benihana; and Olazzo, which serves Italian favorites in a rustic setting.

Among the notable and well-regarded schools in Westgate are Westbrook Elementary and Westland Middle School. The schools are within a few minutes of each other, which means students can either walk to and from school, or it’s easy for parents if they have students to drop off at each school.

Westgate has a nice collection of existing Colonial-style homes as well as new construction in more contemporary designs. The homes are generally medium to large single-family homes as well as townhomes.

Westgate has a strong sense of community, and it’s easy to get to know your neighbor.

Westmoreland Hills is known for its ideal setting near the boundary with Washington, D.C., as well as its proximity to open spaces and trails.

Residents who love to stay active have access to Westmoreland Hills Local Park and Little Falls Stream Valley Park. These parks in turn connect to the Little Falls and Capital Crescent trails.

Among the best places to eat are Ledo Pizza in Kenwood Station and Gregorio's Trattoria at Sumner Place, a favorite among local families.

Westmoreland Hills is known for a handful of outstanding private schools. Among them is Washington Waldorf School, a coed private school that serves the greater metro area for students in kindergarten through high school.

This is one of the most unique neighborhoods in Bethesda due to single-family homes dating as far back as the 1930s. There are also fashionable townhomes and condos.

Residents who enjoy going to the various parks and trails report seeing wildlife such as foxes, ospreys, and owls.

Kenwood Park is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Bethesda and has been home to many distinguished Americans, including astronaut Scott Carpenter as well as senators and representatives.

The fashionable Kenwood Golf & Country Club is a private club with a select membership that has been offering great golf in the rolling countryside since 1928.

There are many great places to eat in the nearby business districts, including True Food Kitchen for healthy fare, Black's Bar & Kitchen for seafood, and Tako Grill for Japanese.

Residents are fortunate to be able to send their children to great schools, such as Burning Tree and Bradley Hills elementary schools, Pyle Middle School, and Walt Whitman High School.

Homes in Kenwood Park include large Colonial-style houses dating to the 1950s as well as newer Arts & Crafts style homes.

Kenwood Park has easy access to open spaces and the major trail systems that offer access to many parts of the metro area.

These are among the best neighborhoods in Bethesda. To help you narrow down a great luxury home perfect for your family, partner with Sarah Minard today to take advantage of her extensive experience in the market!