Best Places to Buy a Beach House in Maryland (2026)

Maryland's diverse coastline along the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean offers a variety of attractive locations for prospective beach house buyers in 2025. From bustling boardwalks to serene bayside retreats, the state's beach towns cater to a range of preferences and budgets. This guide provides a detailed comparison of some of the best places to buy a beach house in Maryland, considering factors such as home prices, investment potential, and lifestyle amenities.

Investing in a Maryland beach house presents numerous advantages, including strong property appreciation, high rental demand, and a rich coastal lifestyle.

• Property Value Growth: Maryland's coastal properties have experienced consistent appreciation. For instance, Ocean City saw a 26.7% increase in median home prices over the past year, reaching $475,000.

• Rental Income: High tourist influx, especially in destinations like Ocean City, supports robust short-term rental markets. Properties in these areas can generate substantial annual rental income.

• Tax Benefits: While Maryland does have a state income tax, owning property can offer deductions and potential tax advantages, particularly for those renting out their beach homes.

• Visitor Statistics: Maryland's beaches attract millions of visitors annually, with Ocean City alone drawing significant crowds during peak seasons.

• Occupancy Rates: Popular beach towns often experience high occupancy rates for vacation rentals, especially during summer months, enhancing rental income potential.

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• Weather Factors: While Maryland is less prone to hurricanes than more southern coastal states, properties may still require flood insurance, especially those in designated flood zones.

• Climate Adaptation: Modern constructions often incorporate features like elevated foundations and storm-resistant materials to mitigate environmental risks.

Ocean City is renowned for its lively boardwalk, extensive beaches, and vibrant entertainment options.

• Home Prices: The median sale price is $475,000, reflecting a 26.7% year-over-year increase.

• Rental Income Potential: High, due to strong tourist demand during peak seasons.

• Safety & Walkability: Generally safe with many amenities within walking distance.

• Best For: Investors seeking rental income, families desiring a vacation home, and those looking for an active beach lifestyle.

• Pros: Robust rental market, numerous attractions, and well-developed infrastructure.

• Cons: Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.

As Maryland's capital, Annapolis offers a blend of rich history and scenic waterfronts.

• Home Prices: Average listing price around $639,900.

• Rental Income Potential: Moderate to high, especially during sailing events and tourist seasons.

• Safety & Walkability: High safety ratings with a very walkable downtown area.

• Best For: Those seeking a mix of cultural heritage and coastal living.

• Pros: Rich history, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to major cities like Washington, D.C.

• Cons: Higher property prices and cost of living.

North Beach offers a small-town feel with charming boardwalks along the Chesapeake Bay.

• Home Prices: Median price of $395,000.

• Rental Income Potential: Moderate, appealing to those seeking quieter getaways.

• Safety & Walkability: Safe community with a walkable waterfront area.

• Best For: Buyers looking for a peaceful retreat with a strong sense of community.

• Pros: Affordable property options, serene environment, and local events.

• Cons: Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.

Crisfield is known for its seafood industry and offers a more laid-back coastal lifestyle.

• Home Prices: Median home value of $151,003, marking an 89.4% increase since 2015.

• Rental Income Potential: Moderate, with potential growth as the area develops.

• Safety & Walkability: Generally safe, though more car-dependent.

• Best For: Budget-conscious buyers and those seeking a traditional coastal town experience.

• Pros: Affordable housing, rich seafood heritage, and community events like the National Hard Crab Derby.

• Cons: Fewer amenities and entertainment options; slower-paced lifestyle.

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Located on Kent Island, Stevensville combines suburban living with bayfront views.

• Home Prices: Average price of $577,500.

• Rental Income Potential: Moderate, especially for long-term rentals.

• Safety & Walkability: Safe community with easy access to outdoor recreational activities.

• Best For: Families, retirees, and those seeking a relaxed yet connected lifestyle.

• Pros: Proximity to major cities (Baltimore, D.C.), strong community, and excellent schools.

• Cons: Higher property prices compared to other bayfront towns.

Maryland’s beach real estate market remains competitive, with price trends varying by location. While Ocean City continues to appreciate rapidly, smaller beach towns like Crisfield offer affordable opportunities.

• Statewide Median Home Price: $400,000

• Ocean City: 7-10% appreciation, driven by tourism and rental demand.

• Annapolis: 6-8% appreciation, with a steady luxury market.

• North Beach: 5-7% appreciation, attracting budget-conscious buyers.

• Crisfield: 4-6% appreciation, with room for growth as the town develops.

• Stevensville: 6-9% appreciation, fueled by suburban demand.

• Ocean City & Annapolis: Strong seller’s markets, with high demand and rising prices.

• North Beach & Crisfield: More of a buyer’s market, offering better deals and negotiating power.

• Stevensville: Balanced market, attracting both buyers and sellers.

Best for Rental Income → Ocean City (high Airbnb demand).

Best for Long-Term Appreciation → Annapolis & Stevensville (stable growth).

Best for Budget Buyers → Crisfield (lowest entry price).

• Direct waterfront homes cost 20-40% more than inland homes.

• Annapolis & Stevensville hold value well due to demand for water-access homes.

• Crisfield & North Beach offer more affordable waterfront options.

Beyond the purchase price, beach house ownership involves property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs.

• Beachfront homes require $3,000-$7,000 annually in maintenance.

• Utility bills average $250-$400 per month, depending on home size.

Maryland’s coastal communities offer diverse lifestyles, from bustling boardwalks to quiet bayside escapes.

Ocean City & Annapolis: Mild winters, vibrant summer scenes.

• Popular Activities: Boating, fishing, nightlife, fine dining.

North Beach & Crisfield: Quieter, nature-focused lifestyle.

• Popular Activities: Kayaking, crabbing, local festivals.

Stevensville: Suburban feel with waterfront access.

• Popular Activities: Sailing, hiking, waterfront dining.

• Ocean City → Lively nightlife, boardwalk culture, tourist-driven.

• Annapolis → Historic charm, arts scene, and sailing community.

• North Beach → Laid-back, small-town atmosphere.

• Crisfield → Seafood festivals, traditional Chesapeake lifestyle.

• Stevensville → Suburban luxury with access to the Chesapeake Bay.

Should you buy or rent? It depends on your long-term goals.

You want an investment: Maryland coastal properties appreciate 4-10% annually.

You plan to rent it out: Short-term rentals in Ocean City can generate $30K-$80K/year.

You want a permanent vacation home: Ownership provides stability and customization.

You visit seasonally: Renting avoids insurance, maintenance, and property tax costs.

You want flexibility: No long-term commitment or upkeep responsibilities.

You’re waiting for better prices: If home values stabilize, you can buy later.

Choosing the best Maryland beach town for investment or personal use depends on your budget, lifestyle, and financial goals.

For High Rental Income → Ocean City (strong Airbnb demand).

For Luxury & Appreciation → Annapolis & Stevensville (long-term growth).

For Affordable Beach Living → Crisfield & North Beach (budget-friendly options).

If you're ready to find the perfect Maryland beach house, let reAlpha Mortgage guide you through the process. Our real estate experts can help with:

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Looking for other top coastal markets? Check out our guide on beach house investments in Virginia, and the North Carolina!