The 11 Best Neighborhoods in Baltimore for Renters

Baltimore has played a key role in the history of the United States. The city formed the origin of the American National Anthem during the War of 1812. Besides its glorious history, Charm City has a burgeoning economy and more than 250 neighborhoods! A fascinating fact about these communities is that each one is a world by itself with its own culture, history, and character! Since 250 is a huge number, let us share details of 11 of the best neighborhoods in Baltimore for you to explore further.

Complete guide to the 11 best Baltimore neighborhoods:

1. Hampden

Hampden is a neighborhood with lots of greenery. The area once housed the Jones Falls mills, and millworkers lived here. Since the 90s, the site has undergone massive changes, with artists and young professionals moving in from Downtown and calling the place home. Finding roommates in Baltimore will not be difficult here!

To serve the new crowd, the community set up a multitude of yoga studios, bars, vintage boutiques, and art galleries!

You’ll find lots of row houses and Victorian single-family homes that were built from converted factory blocks. Residents comprise mainly hipsters and people who’ve been around for a while. People are pretty close to one another, so you’ll find the environment to be a friendly one.

The Avenue or W 36th Street is the area’s commercial center lined with many bars, eateries, cafes, and shops. Some notable places you could check out are The Bluebird Cocktail Room for amazing cocktails, Atomic Books for the reader in you, and The Charmery for its delicious ice cream!

The community leaves no stone unturned as far as entertainment goes. Honfest is a famous festival held in June every year to honor the lifestyle of the city residents. Wondering what ‘Hon’ is? Well, shorten ‘honey,’ and that’s what you get! What all do you get here? Access to lots of drinks, parades, and live music!

Hampdenfest is another festival held in the neighborhood. Miracle, a festival displaying beautiful holiday lights, takes place on 34th Street. Interestingly, movies like Cry-Baby and Hairspray were shot here by John Waters, an American filmmaker born and raised in the city.

The locale is walkable, so make sure you reach places on foot unless they’re too far. There are many bus stops and a Light Rail station close by to visit Downtown or somewhere else.

2. Canton

Canton is a vibrant and sought-after neighborhood exhibiting the feel of a small town. The area was once lined with factories that have been turned into lofts, houses, shopping centers, art studios, offices, and eateries. Residents comprise people from different backgrounds, such as divorcees, retirees, and yuppies or young urban professionals. Classic formstone and brick row houses, apartments, townhomes, and waterfront condos dot the area. Seems like a perfect place for a young couple to look for a rental house in Baltimore here.

The locale’s highlights include lip-smacking seafood, parks, the waterfront location, and easy access to everything you need. In other words, the area scores high on walkability! Try out some of its fancy restaurants, such as Alma Cocina Latina, specializing in Latin American cuisine, and Mama’s On the Half Shell, if you crave oysters.

Iron Rooster is for those who prefer creative comfort food, while Cafe Dear Leon is for those who can’t stay away from delicious baked goods! The majority of cafes, restaurants, and shops are centered around Canton Square, so whenever you’re in the mood to eat, drink, and shop, you know where to go!

In terms of its must-see places, visit Canton Waterfront Park. It has a waterside boardwalk close by with plenty of oyster bars and crab shacks drawing people in hordes. O’Donnell Square is a significant place with its own share of restaurants, bars, and shops.

If you wish to catch glimpses of nature, O’Donnell Square Park is also in the area. The community is well-known for its many green spaces, apt for nature lovers, such as Boston Street Pier Park and the Canton Waterfront Park.

Finally, summers see a lot of concerts in Canton, not to mention outdoor community fitness centers. You can check them out if you’re looking for options to stay in shape!

3. Fells Point

Among the oldest neighborhoods in the city, Fells Point was founded in 1763. It’s a typical immigrant community full of energy. A big chunk of the residents here are Latin American. Interestingly, over 300 buildings in the area proudly feature in the National Historic Register! Now, isn’t that what we’d call an achievement? Absolutely!

You’ll also find the Robert Long House, the oldest house in the city, here! Beautiful row houses also dot the neighborhood. Residents mainly comprise young professionals, families, and singles. The best place to live with roommates.

Many row houses in Fells Point also function as eateries, pubs, taverns, and shops. There are several boutiques and art galleries in the area if you’re keen on shopping or viewing art! The eateries and restaurants here serve the famous Chesapeake Bay crabs and oysters, lapped up by residents and visitors alike!

Feel like having a drink? Pop by The Horse You Came In On Saloon, the oldest pub in the city. The Fells Point waterfront area is pretty high-end, with fancy restaurants, elegant hotels, bars, and marinas along the river.

Find time to visit the Frederick Douglass - Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum, a heritage park with exhibits commemorating African - American maritime history. Curious about the city’s underworld? Take the Wicked History Pub Tour to learn more. The Broadway Market Foodhall is another exciting place you must explore, where you can hog to your heart’s content!

There are two reputed schools here should you want to move in with family - the Hampstead Hill Academy and the Wolfe Street Academy.

In the end, the community scores very high on the walkability scale, with buses available for those who need them.

4. Federal Hill

Federal Hill may be small, but it more than makes up for its size, with its shopping facilities, range of restaurants, lovely old buildings, and cobblestone streets, not to mention the vistas of Inner Harbor. It’s located in the southern part of Downtown Baltimore. Here, you’ll discover several brick row and townhouses, new apartment buildings, and luxury condos. Residents comprise singles, young professionals, and newly married couples. If you are looking to rent a room in Baltimore, this place might be the best.

Foodies and those who eat to live can visit Matsuri if sushi’s on their mind. For juicy cheesesteaks, head over to MaGerk’s Pub & Grill. Finally, for drinks, there’s Illusions Bar, with a magic comedy show thrown in for good measure! Shopaholics can head over to Brightside Boutique and Hello Addie and have a party!

If you’re looking for worthwhile places to visit, explore the American Visionary Art Museum, emphasizing self-taught art. The Cross Street Market is an old marketplace built in the 19th century and extends to the end of the street. So, what’s great about this place? The market houses eateries, grocers, bakeries, coffee shops, butcheries, boutiques, and flower shops galore!

If you want to spend time amid a ton of greenery, drop by Federal Hill Park. You can even have a picnic with friends or loved ones. Rash Field is the place to be if you’re interested in waterfront activities such as beach volleyball! Though unlikely, if you ever feel bored, Downtown and Inner Harbor are a stone’s throw away, so walk down to your destination. After all, it’s a pretty walkable neighborhood!

5. Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is a best reasonably priced neighborhood in Central Baltimore. Residents comprise primarily young professionals and singles. Here, you’ll find everything from global cuisines to live music to museums and plays. Anything you desire is at your fingertips! You won't be having trouble to find a perfect roommate here.

The area houses single-family Victorian row houses, modern condos, carriage houses, and high-rise apartments. In the 19th century, moneyed folks found the tranquil neighborhood with all its greenery charming, resulting in mansions and townhomes they called home. Walk along the neighborhood and soak up the sights.

Mount Vernon is home to numerous chic cafes and eateries. Exciting hotspots include the Washington Monument, the first monument built in memory of the country’s first President, George Washington, way before the one in D.C! Then there’s the George Peabody Library and the Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University.

Baltimore Center Stage, the most prominent professional theater in the city, runs plays like the Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. You could watch it if you’re into the theater. Interested in art? Head over to the Walters Art Museum, which exhibits paintings and sculptures from across the globe.

If places of worship fascinate you, drop by the Baltimore Basilica, the oldest Catholic cathedral in America! Should you want to spend some time with nature, have a stroll in St. Mary’s Park.

You’ll find tons of professional service providers in the area, such as doctors, architects, lawyers, and financial experts, which greatly help the residents. Services aside, there are plenty of cafes, art galleries, B&Bs, and taprooms or breweries serving beer to their customers. What about food? If you want to avoid meat for a bit, visit The Land of Kush and try their vegan food. For happy hour cocktails, beers, and wines, Sugarvale is the place!

Overall, Mount Vernon is a fairly walkable neighborhood.

6. Downtown Baltimore

Although much was destroyed in the Great Baltimore Fire more than a century ago, Downtown Baltimore has used the time to rise from the ashes like a phoenix! Today, there are close to 40,000 residents who call the neighborhood their home.

Central Downtown comprises the financial hub of the city and has numerous skyscrapers. Among the noteworthy ones, you have the Bank of America Building, the William Donald Schaefer Building, and the Transamerica Tower!

Besides a ton of eateries and stores, there are numerous apartments and condos for those who want to live close to their workplaces. Westside Baltimore is located in the southwestern corner of Downtown and is the city’s art and retail culture hub. Places you could explore include the Market Center, the University of Maryland, Baltimore and the Baltimore Convention Center. Let us also add the Hippodrome Theatre and Royal Farms Arena, major entertainment venues if you’re thinking about attending plays or other events.

7. Charles Village

Charles Village is a charming neighborhood close to Johns Hopkins University and frequented by students after classes. You’ll experience a college-town feel while you’re in the area. Residents comprise many students and staff members working at the university, besides families, graduates, blue-collar workers, hipster couples, and retirees. It’s a diversified community, and therefore, an inclusive place to live in.

You’ll find many multi-story Victorian row houses, apartment buildings, and warehouse lofts here. The structural architecture in this community is magnificent and one to spend time admiring. If you happen to have a rental property here, then you would have become a successful landlord till now!

You’ll also discover several modest restaurants and pubs. Pubs and eateries aside, the area is peppered with book stores and vintage boutiques along St. Paul Street. Want to taste organic coffee? Charmington’s is where you should be!

How about listening to some indie rock bands? Head over to Ottobar. Be sure to visit the Baltimore Museum of Art and Wyman Park Dell, a park spread over 16 acres with multiple hiking trails and huge lawns.

Overall, it’s easy to reach places without a heck of a commute!

8. Woodberry

Woodberry is a tranquil and hilly neighborhood, perfect for those looking for a peaceful residential area to live in. Its height makes it an ideal location for the city’s transmission towers! Besides townhouses and apartment buildings, there are numerous 19th-century homes. Structures that served as mills have been converted into condos, apartments, and studios.

Sightseeing places include Druid Hills Park, sprawled across 745 acres! The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is located in the park’s vicinity, so you can kill two birds with one stone while you’re here. Bike, walk, or jog along the numerous trails of the Jones Falls Trail. Outdoor enthusiasts will love this place for its many parks, especially those situated at the area’s north end. Woodberry Woods and Cold Spring Park have plenty of walking and biking paths.

Looking for dining options? Drop by Woodberry Kitchen for American food made from locally sourced ingredients. For those who want to experiment with cuisines from the Basque regions of France and Spain, La Cuchara is where you should be!

To sum up, the locale houses the notable Ridley Athletic Complex, which hosts matches for the Loyola University Greyhounds men’s lacrosse, rugby, and soccer teams.

9. Mt. Washington

Mt. Washington is a quiet neighborhood with residents comprising singles, couples, families, and empty-nesters. Check out the colossal Victorian houses, bungalow homes, and garden apartments. Residents work for the neighborhood’s welfare, so it exhibits a community feel.

The famed Mt. Washington Village is the center of all action and is dotted with antique stores, quaint restaurants, salons, and boutiques! Among its must-visit places, there’s Cylburn Arboretum, with a stunning mansion and well-maintained gardens encompassing it.

Don’t forget to explore Mt. Washington Arboretum, a park housing trees, plants, and shrubs of all kinds. Lake Roland Park is close by if you’re looking for more options to experience the city’s natural beauty!

In a word, residents use the Light Rail to commute across the city.

10. Mid-Town Belvedere

Home to the renowned Belvedere Hotel, which is 120 years old, the neighborhood is situated in midtown Baltimore and is a reasonably-priced area. Explore the blend of brownstones, condos, and apartments in the community while you’re here.

Residents comprise young professionals and singles. The neighborhood houses the reputed Maryland Institute College of Art and the University of Baltimore should you be interested in pursuing higher education.

Traces of culture reflect in its visitor attractions, such as the Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, the Baltimore Theater Project, and the Modell Performing Arts Center, so take the time to tour the places and find out more about them.

Books, coffee, and food are a combination people would kill for, wouldn’t they? If you agree, make sure you visit Red Emma’s, an infoshop that serves vegetarian and vegan food and coffee, besides offering a fantastic collection of books to bibliophiles. In the mood for a movie? Catch indie documentaries and lauded feature films at the Charles Theatre, the city’s oldest movie hall.

Fashionable shops, art galleries, eateries, and bars dot the community. The Owl Bar is noteworthy for its cocktails and charcuterie or assorted cooked meats. For nightlife options, drop by the Grand Central Nightclub. Let your hair down with dancing, karaoke, and watching drag shows!

In summary, Amtrak’s Baltimore Penn Station is in the vicinity, and that's the reason why it is amongst the best in-demand neighborhoods in Baltimore.

11. Brooklyn

Located near Inner Harbor, Brooklyn exhibits a community vibe and is inclusive. It gives you quick access to highways, so traveling to other parts of the city is no biggie.

Potee Street is the area’s commercial and entertainment hub with plenty of eateries, shops, and other perks. Make the most of your time here by visiting the Maryland Science Center and planetarium, and the National Aquarium.

For panoramic city vistas, visit the Top of the World Observation Level, an observation deck atop the 27th floor of the World Trade Center in the city! Two huge parks grace the area - the Farring Baybrook Recreation Center and the Arundel Village Park. The highlights of these parks include dance classes, athletic fields, stunning murals, and walking paths. Brooklyn has a plethora of live music venues, bars, and restaurants for residents and visitors alike.

To conclude, the community is close to the Patapsco River, so if you’re looking for mesmerizing views of the water, drop by and soak up the sights and sounds of the river!

Conclusion

So, what are your thoughts on our list of the best Baltimore neighborhoods? Think you’ve found a few you can fit into? We hope so! A city that puts so much thought into the well-being of its residents with everything it offers, from educational and professional opportunities to food and entertainment, is a dream destination!

Finally, its connection to an integral part of American history seals the deal! Apart from the information furnished here, it’s wise to do your own research and explore some of these places before making an informed decision. Good luck!