Relocating to Southern Maryland—whether for a new job, a military PCS, or a government assignment—is an exciting move. The region’s blend of waterfront scenery, strong military presence, commuter access, small-town appeal, and diverse housing options make it a standout location for both families and professionals.
But buying a home while relocating comes with unique challenges—timelines, commute considerations, financing decisions, and understanding the local communities. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about buying a home in Southern Maryland, including insights tailored specifically for military relocations, government employees, and professionals transferring for work.
Why Southern Maryland Is a Popular Relocation Destination
Southern Maryland—made up of Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties—has become one of the most sought-after regions for relocating buyers. Its appeal comes from a mix of lifestyle, employment opportunities, affordability, and access to major bases and job hubs.
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A Region Shaped by Military and Government Work
Southern Maryland is home to major employers and installations, including:
- Naval Air Station Patuxent River (NAS Pax River)
- Joint Base Andrews
- Government contractors like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems, and Booz Allen
- Federal government agencies in Washington, D.C.
- Healthcare, education, and public-sector employers throughout the region
Because of this, the area has become a relocation hotspot for:
- Active-duty service members
- Civilian DoD employees
- Defense contractors
- Government workers
- Remote or hybrid professionals
Lifestyle Appeal
Beyond employment, Southern Maryland offers:
- Waterfront communities along the Chesapeake Bay, Patuxent River, and Potomac River
- Family-friendly neighborhoods
- Expanding retail and dining
- Parks, trails, and marinas
- Quiet rural areas balanced with commuter access
This mix makes it especially popular for military families, first-time homebuyers, and professionals seeking a calmer lifestyle close to the city.
Understanding Commute Patterns in Southern Maryland
Whether you’re relocating for a PCS or for civilian work, commute times are one of the biggest considerations when buying a home here.
Key Highways & Routes
Southern Maryland relies on several major commuting roads:
- MD-4 – Main route connecting Calvert County to D.C. and Andrews AFB
- MD-5 – Direct route from Charles County toward D.C.
- MD-235 (Three Notch Road) – Major corridor for St. Mary’s County, including Pax River
- US-301 – Alternate commuter route north
- Solomons Bridge – Key connector between Calvert and St. Mary’s counties
Some of these routes experience peak-hour congestion, especially for commuters heading toward the D.C. area or Andrews AFB. Understanding your work location and preferred lifestyle helps determine which community best fits your needs.
Choosing a Home Based on Your Work Location
For Pax River NAS:
Look near Lexington Park, California, Great Mills, or Leonardtown for the shortest commute times. Check out our NAS Patuxent River guide for more details.
For Joint Base Andrews:
Northern Charles County (Waldorf, Brandywine) and Northern Calvert County (Dunkirk, Owings) offer direct access via MD-4 and MD-5.
For more insights, explore our guide to relocating to Andrews Air Force Base at https://www.exploremdhomes.com/blog/relocating-to-andrews-airforce-base/.
For D.C. or Northern Virginia:
Charles and Calvert counties offer manageable commute times with more affordable home options than closer suburbs.
Remote and hybrid workers:
Many neighborhoods offer quiet environments and access to newer internet infrastructure—something to prioritize when narrowing your search.
Popular Communities for Relocating Buyers
Each Southern Maryland county has its own character, housing options, and benefits. Here’s a quick overview of where relocating buyers often choose to settle.
St. Mary’s County
Lexington Park, California & Great Mills
Convenient to Pax River NAS, these areas offer the fastest commute for military and contractor employees. You’ll find townhomes, single-family homes, and newer developments.
Leonardtown
Known for its historic charm, walkable town square, and local restaurants, Leonardtown offers a community feel with short drive times to Pax River.
Ridge & Waterfront Areas
If you’re looking for quiet living and scenic waterfront views, Southern St. Mary’s offers an appealing lifestyle.
👉 Explore St. Mary’s County
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Calvert County
Prince Frederick
Located centrally, making it great for buyers who want access to both Solomons and commuter routes north.
Dunkirk & Owings
Perfect for those commuting to D.C., Andrews, or Northern Virginia, with easy access to MD-4.
Solomons
A waterfront village known for marinas, restaurants, and scenic views. Ideal for buyers who want coastal living with convenient access to the Pax River area.
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Charles County
Waldorf
One of the region’s most popular commuter hubs, Waldorf has shopping centers, restaurants, and plentiful housing options.
La Plata
A charming town with local amenities and a friendly community atmosphere.
Hughesville & Brandywine
Offer a balance between suburban access and proximity to MD-5 for commuting north.
Home Buying Considerations for Military Relocation
Relocating for military service brings unique considerations, especially when timing a PCS and working within strict moving windows.
Timing Your PCS Move
Southern Maryland often experiences seasonal spikes in housing demand—especially from May to September. Planning early helps you secure a home with fewer delays.
Understanding BAH & Budget Planning
Your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) helps determine affordability. Since each county has different home price ranges, working with a knowledgeable agent can help match your budget to the right community.
Using a VA Loan in Southern Maryland
Southern Maryland is one of the most VA-friendly regions in Maryland, making it easier for service members to use their benefit. Consider:
Zero down payment
No private mortgage insurance
Competitive interest rates
Many local lenders specialize in VA loans and are familiar with PCS timelines and military documentation needs.
Factors to Consider When Buying for Work-Related Relocation
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Proximity to Job Centers
Balancing commute time and lifestyle is essential. Some buyers prioritize shorter drives, while others are willing to travel farther for more space or quieter surroundings.
Evaluating Local Amenities
When choosing a home location, think about proximity to:
Grocery stores and shopping
Parks, playgrounds, and marinas
Local community centers
Healthcare providers
Schools
Dining and entertainment
Southern Maryland has a strong mix of suburban convenience and rural charm.
Internet & Remote Work Needs
If you work remotely or in a hybrid format, verify:
Broadband availability
ISP options
Upload/download speeds
Some rural areas are still developing their internet infrastructure, so it’s an important part of your home search.
Southern Maryland Housing Market Insights
Across Southern Maryland, buyers can expect:
Increasing interest from D.C.-area commuters
New construction neighborhoods expanding in all three counties
Competitive pricing near military bases
More affordable options than urban or closer suburbs
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St. Mary’s County often has more inventory close to Pax River NAS.
Calvert County balances waterfront communities with access to D.C.
Charles County offers the largest selection of suburban-style neighborhoods and commuter access.
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Whether you prefer a turn-key home or a new construction build, each county offers unique opportunities.
Practical Tips for Relocating Buyers
Here are some of the most important steps for a smooth relocation:
Start your home search early, especially if you plan to live near a military base.
Get pre-approved before arriving—competitive homes often require it.
Work with a local real estate expert familiar with relocation and military PCS timelines.
Prioritize your must-haves (commute, space, amenities, yard size, proximity to work).
Schedule virtual tours if you’re out of state or on a tight timeline.
Be prepared for appraisal timelines and lender requirements, especially with VA loans.
Research commute routes at different times of day.
Planning ahead can make a big difference in securing the right home.
Buying a home in Southern Maryland while relocating for work or military service doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and guidance, you can find a home that fits your lifestyle, commute needs, and long-term goals.
Whether you’re focused on being close to Pax River NAS, Andrews AFB, government offices, or major contractor hubs, Southern Maryland offers a wide range of communities—from waterfront retreats to suburban neighborhoods and historic towns.
If you’re preparing for a move or need help navigating the local housing market, a local real estate expert can help you understand neighborhoods, commute options, pricing trends, and the best strategies for your relocation timeline.
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Looking for personalized guidance and help narrowing down the best places to live in Southern Maryland?
Contact us today to start your home search, schedule a consultation, or request a custom relocation guide tailored to your needs.
Your move doesn’t have to be stressful—let’s make your Southern Maryland relocation a success.
