Major Cities & Towns of Montgomery County, Maryland

Jimy San

October 14, 2024

Montgomery County, Maryland, is one of the most populous and affluent counties in the United States, just northwest of Washington, D.C. It is known for its diverse communities, high quality of life, excellent schools, and proximity to federal government institutions. The county contains a mix of large cities, suburban towns, and small, unincorporated communities, each with its unique character. Below is an overview of the major cities and towns in Montgomery County:

1. Rockville

Population: Approx. 68,000 (as of 2020 census)
Overview: Rockville is the county seat of Montgomery County and one of the largest cities in Maryland. It is a major center for government, business, and culture. The city’s vibrant Town Square is a hub for restaurants, shops, and community events. Rockville is also known for its strong public schools, parks, and historical landmarks, such as the Beall-Dawson House and St. Mary’s Church, where F. Scott Fitzgerald is buried. Its proximity to Washington, D.C., makes it popular with professionals working in the federal government and related industries.
Key Features: Rockville Town Center, Rockville Pike (Route 355), a booming technology and biotech sector.

2. Gaithersburg

Population: Approx. 70,000 (as of 2020 census)
Overview: Gaithersburg is another of Montgomery County’s major cities, located just northwest of Rockville. Known for its historic Olde Town district and modern developments like the Kentlands, a New Urbanist community, Gaithersburg has a diverse population and a mix of old and new architectural styles. The city is a hub for biotechnology companies and is home to major government institutions, including the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
Key Features: Olde Towne Gaithersburg, RIO Washingtonian Center (a popular shopping and dining destination), Seneca Creek State Park.

3. Bethesda

Population: Approx. 68,000 (as of 2020 census)
Overview: Bethesda is an unincorporated, highly affluent area located just outside Washington, D.C., making it one of the most desirable suburbs in the region. Known for its high-end shopping, dining, and arts scene, Bethesda has a vibrant downtown area. It is home to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The Bethesda Row development is a hotspot for upscale retail and restaurants. Bethesda’s residents are typically well-educated, with many working in government, law, medicine, and tech.
Key Features: Bethesda Row, NIH campus, Strathmore Music Center.

4. Silver Spring

Population: Approx. 81,000 (as of 2020 census)
Overview: Silver Spring is one of Montgomery County’s largest and most diverse communities, situated along the Washington, D.C., border. The city is known for its revitalized downtown area, which includes a mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and residential spaces. Silver Spring has a growing arts scene, anchored by venues like the AFI Silver Theatre and the Fillmore Silver Spring. The area is highly walkable and is a major transportation hub with a Metro station and several major roads connecting it to D.C.
Key Features: Downtown Silver Spring, AFI Silver Theatre, Fillmore Silver Spring, Sligo Creek Park.

5. Takoma Park

Population: Approx. 17,000 (as of 2020 census)
Overview: Takoma Park is a small, progressive city along the D.C. border. It is known for its activism, environmental consciousness, and eclectic community. Takoma Park has a rich history, having been one of the early streetcar suburbs of Washington, D.C. The city has a reputation for being politically active, often referred to as a “nuclear-free zone” due to its long-standing opposition to nuclear energy and weapons. The community is known for its charming, Victorian-style homes and artsy atmosphere.
Key Features: Takoma Park Farmers Market, Old Takoma neighborhood, Takoma Park Folk Festival.

6. Germantown

Population: Approx. 91,000 (as of 2020 census)
Overview: Germantown is one of the largest and fastest-growing communities in Montgomery County. Located 30 miles northwest of Washington, D.C., Germantown has become a significant residential and commercial center. It is home to numerous shopping areas, parks, and recreational facilities. Despite its growth, Germantown maintains a suburban feel with easy access to the countryside, including nearby Black Hill Regional Park and Little Seneca Lake.
Key Features: Black Hill Regional Park, Germantown Town Center, SoccerPlex (a major regional sports complex).

7. Chevy Chase

Population: Varies by neighborhood (Chevy Chase, MD has around 10,000)
Overview: Chevy Chase is an affluent, primarily residential community that straddles the Montgomery County and Washington, D.C. border. Known for its tree-lined streets and large homes, Chevy Chase is home to some of the Washington region’s most influential families and professionals. The area includes several distinct neighborhoods, including Chevy Chase Village and Chevy Chase Section 5, each with its local government. The area is known for its quiet, suburban feel while being very close to downtown Washington, D.C.
Key Features: Chevy Chase Circle, the upscale Chevy Chase Club, and proximity to Friendship Heights (a commercial and retail hub).

8. Potomac

Population: Approx. 45,000 (as of 2020 census)
Overview: Potomac is one of the wealthiest communities in Montgomery County, known for its large estates, equestrian properties, and proximity to the Potomac River. The area is predominantly residential, with some of the most luxurious homes in the D.C. region. Potomac also offers easy access to nature, with places like Great Falls and the C&O Canal National Historical Park nearby. Many residents of Potomac work in D.C. or are executives in the tech, government, or legal sectors.
Key Features: Great Falls Park, C&O Canal, Potomac Village (a small commercial center).

9. Kensington

Population: Approx. 2,300 (as of 2020 census)
Overview: Kensington is a small, historic town known for its quaint Victorian architecture and strong sense of community. Located just north of Bethesda, Kensington offers a quieter, small-town alternative to the larger suburban cities. The town is known for its antiques row and local events, such as the Kensington Labor Day Parade. The Noyes Library for Young Children and Kensington Cabin Park are famous local landmarks.
Key Features: Antique Row, Noyes Library for Young Children, a historic district with Victorian homes.

10. Olney

Population: Approx. 35,000 (as of 2020 census)
Overview: Olney is a suburban town located northeast of Rockville. It is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and community spirit. Once a rural farming community, Olney has seen considerable growth over the past few decades, though it retains much of its suburban charm. Olney is home to the Olney Theatre Center, a nationally recognized regional theater.
Key Features: Olney Theatre Center, Olney Manor Park, and a strong sense of community with local events and markets.

11. North Bethesda

Population: Approx. 50,000 (as of 2020 census)
Overview: North Bethesda is an unincorporated area located just north of Bethesda and is a key commercial and residential center in Montgomery County. The area is home to Pike & Rose, a popular mixed-use development featuring shopping, dining, entertainment, and residential options. White Flint Mall, once a major shopping center, is being redeveloped, contributing to the area’s ongoing growth. North Bethesda is known for its proximity to the Music Center at Strathmore, a cultural venue for music and the arts.
Key Features: Pike & Rose, Music Center at Strathmore, and proximity to Rockville Pike (Route 355).

12. Poolesville

Population: Approx. 5,200 (as of 2020 census)
Overview: Poolesville is a small town located in the rural, agricultural part of western Montgomery County. Known for its scenic landscapes and slower pace, Poolesville is a gateway to the Agricultural Reserve, which is protected for farming and rural uses. Despite its small size, Poolesville has a strong sense of community and offers outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and visits to nearby Sugarloaf Mountain.
Key Features: Proximity to the Agricultural Reserve, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Poolesville Historic District.

Conclusion

Montgomery County, Maryland, is home to many cities, towns, and communities, each offering its unique character. From the bustling urban centers of Silver Spring and Bethesda to the more tranquil, rural areas like Poolesville, the county has something for