Ellicott City 76 Exceptional
Ellicott City Livability #89 ranked city in Maryland#2,983 ranked city in the USARanks better than 89% of areas

Pros and Cons of Living in Ellicott City

PROS
  • Amenities

    The area boasts an ample array of local amenities, such as restaurants, entertainment options, grocery stores and parks, all conveniently located within walking distance.

  • Crime

    The crime rate is far lower than the national average per 100,000 residents. As such, it should be considered a very safe place to live when compared to other areas.

  • Employment

    This area excels in the employment category with a score well above average, primarily due to the higher median home income, per capita income and low unemployment rates.

  • Housing

    High scores in the housing category are attributed to this area, possibly pointing to a favorable home affordability ratio, robust appreciation rates or elevated home values.

  • Health & Safety

    Achieving a high health and safety score relies on factors including great air quality and convenient access to vital health facilities such as hospitals, doctors, clinics and police stations.

CONS
  • Cost Of Living

    The cost of living in this area is notably high, making it a more expensive place to live. You'll find higher expenses for everyday goods and services, housing and groceries.

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What's it like Living in Ellicott City?

Ellicott City, Maryland is a moderately-sized city with a population of 73,272 inhabitants. Individuals of White (56%) and Asian (29%) backgrounds make up a significant portion of the population of Ellicott City. Something to be aware of when living in Ellicott City are the above average commute times. If you're looking for a short commute to work, this might not be the right area for you. With one way commute time of 30 minutes, this comes in much higher than the national average of 26 minutes.

Without the right tools, moving to any new town can be very stressful and challenging. Living in Ellicott City, Maryland could be a positive experience for anyone who puts in the time to do the research required. When searching for a new neighborhood, several key items should be considered. Safety is paramount, ensuring a secure environment for you and your family. Proximity to workplaces or schools reduces commuting time and enhances convenience. Access to amenities like parks, grocery stores and healthcare facilities contributes to a comfortable lifestyle. Reliable public transportation options promote easy mobility. A strong sense of community fosters social connections and a welcoming atmosphere. The best areas in Ellicott City and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from health & safety, education, employment, housing, you will see a detailed breakdown of the most important information as well as comparisons to the Maryland and national averages.

The livability score in Ellicott City is 76/100 and the city is ranked in the 90th percentile of all cities across America. Pack your bags! This is a very high score in comparison to other US cities. Living in Ellicott City could be a great choice! Ellicott City has also earned the rare honor of ranking in the top 10 percentile among all cities. Based on the scores for each individual category, Ellicott City has been rewarded with high marks for amenities (A+), crime (A), education (A-) and housing (B+). On a more negative note, Ellicott City does not have favorable scores for the following: cost of living (F). If we take a look at the data, we can find out why.

Ellicott City has many conveniently situated amenities and captivating attractions that adds to the continuous enjoyment of your everyday life. Having the assurance of abundant conveniences and a wide array of activities ensures your easy access to nearby grocery stores, restaurants, bars, fitness facilities, coffee shops and exciting entertainment options. This not only simplifies daily routines but also fosters a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle within the community. With a wealth of resources at your fingertips, you can savor the convenience and variety that Ellicott City has to offer, making it a desirable destination for those seeking both accessibility and enjoyment in their daily lives. Among the enticing options for fun and exploration in Ellicott City are: B&O Railroad Station Museum, Patapsco Valley State Park, and The Spa Turf Valley.

When contemplating a move, job prospects often top the list of priorities. In Ellicott City, the outlook for new employment is notably brighter than in many other areas. The low unemployment rate of 1.83% points to a surge in job opportunities, the potential for higher wages, enhanced workforce productivity and increased economic growth. These favorable conditions bode well for individuals seeking career advancement and financial stability, making this area an appealing destination for those prioritizing professional opportunities and economic prosperity.

Standardized school test scores offer a valuable benchmark for assessing the quality of educational programs, instructional methods, and curriculum effectiveness. Recognizing that Ellicott City schools excel in test scores is a crucial consideration when determining the suitability of this area for residence. The local schools boast an impressive average test score of 66%, significantly higher than the national average. This stellar academic performance not only attests to the excellence of the educational system but also underscores the area's commitment to providing a high-quality education, making Ellicott City an appealing choice for those prioritizing their children's educational prospects.

Real estate represents the most substantial investment for homebuyers, constituting their most valuable asset. Renters, on the other hand, typically see their monthly rent as their most significant expense. The Ellicott City market earns a high score in the housing category, surpassing the national average in factors like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates. This robust real estate market not only benefits individual homeowners and renters but also spurs vigorous local economic activity and job growth, solidifying its significance in driving the region's prosperity and financial well-being.

Certain items on your wish list like shopping, restaurants, nightlife, parks and proximity to public transportation are all important things to look for. Having said that, perhaps the most important metric to consider when contemplating a move to Ellicott City is real estate affordability. The median home price for Ellicott City homes is $546,700, which is 88.3% higher than the Maryland average. If we take a closer look at the affordability of homes in Ellicott City, we’ll see that the home price to income ratio is 4.1, which is 7.9% higher than the Maryland average.

Best Places to Live in and Around Ellicott City

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Compare Ellicott City, MD Livability

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      Ellicott City transportation information

      Statistic Ellicott City Maryland National
      Average one way commute30min32min26min
      Workers who drive to work79.2%73.7%76.4%
      Workers who carpool6.4%9.3%9.3%
      Workers who take public transit1.4%8.9%5.1%
      Workers who bicycle0.0%0.3%0.6%
      Workers who walk0.8%2.4%2.8%
      Working from home11.3%4.4%4.6%
      Source: The Ellicott City, MD data and statistics displayed above are derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS).