Regional Overview
Regional Demographic Data (pdf)
Maryland
Delaware
Pennsylvania

Regional Overview
A wide variety of housing choices is available throughout the Chesapeake Science and Security Corridor. Choose from urban communities, rolling hillsides, transit-oriented developments, waterfront communities, communal-oriented clubhouses, family-friendly town homes, condos and apartment complexes, tree-lined drives, and active senior communities to provide a full spectrum of quality living opportunities within comfortable commuting distances to Aberdeen Proving Ground.

2nd Quarter 2007 Average Home Sales, Multiple Listing Service data

MARYLAND
HARFORD COUNTY

Harford County, Maryland is part of the Greater Baltimore Region, strategically located on I-95 in the heart of the East Coast and Mid-Atlantic United States' markets. Harford County's location, highly skilled workforce, business-friendly environment, and unparalleled quality of life offer the ultimate setting for growing businesses and families. The County's three municipalities, Aberdeen, Bel Air, and Havre de Grace, are only minutes apart and offer a unique flavor and a variety of diverse attractions and world-class amenities.

Aberdeen, Maryland
www.aberdeen-md.org
This quiet City is located near the head of the Chesapeake Bay. Aberdeen is an "All-America City" rich with history, diversity, technological advancement, and growth. People from diverse cultures have worked together to build a community they are proud to share. Demonstrating a strong relationship between industry and community, Aberdeen has attracted major manufacturing and distribution companies to the city. Aberdeen is fortunate to have as its neighbor the world's most diversified military research and development center - Aberdeen Proving Ground. Major Employers: U.S. Army Aberdeen Proving Ground, Frito-Lay, Inc., Pier I Imports Northeast Distribution Facility, Saks Fifth Avenue.

Bel Air, Maryland
www.belairmd.org
Located in the heart of Harford County, Bel Air offers its visitors big-city convenience in a small town package. Picturesque parks, rambling Victorians, cordial pubs, and charming boutiques welcome visitors off the street. Trendy stores and restaurant chains fuse with farmers markets and local craftsman to offer a wide variety of cuisine, goods, and gifts. Nestled between manicured suburbs and scenic pastures, Main Street Bel Air hums with cultural activity year round. Popular annual events include the Chocolate Festival, the Farm Fair, and the Maryland State BBQ. Many new residential developments surround the town. Many original homes dating back to colonial days in addition to single family houses built from the 1960s to the present.

Havre de Grace, Maryland
www.hdgtourism.com
Located in eastern Harford County on the banks of the Susquehanna River is a charming waterfront community rich with history and maritime heritage. This "City by the Bay" offers a truly authentic Chesapeake Bay experience, with a delightful mix of restaurants, unique bed and breakfast inns, specialty boutiques and antique shops. Waterfront trails, world-class golf, scenic parks and promenades characterize this charming city, which recently hosted the McDonald's LPGA Tournament at Bulle Rock Golf Course, one of sixteen 5-star Zagat rated golf courses in the U.S. The housing diversity in Havre de Grace is as unique as the town itself. From Queen Anne to bungalow style homes restored or ready to reflect its new owner's flair. Living in town offers excellent walk ability to downtown shopping, dining, and the waterfront parks and special events. Large established communities sit on the outer edges of town from individual and semi-detached to new upscale gated communities with award-winning open floor plans and country-club style amenities.

Churchville, Maryland
Churchville is a mid-size zip code nestled between Harford's three municipalities. Its unique central location, suburban amenities, and friendly neighborhoods make it a favorite choice for many Harford County families. In Churchville, historic churches, cheerful orchards, and wholesome outdoor markets fuse seamlessly with inviting restaurants, appealing shops, and animated recreational activities, including miniature golf, and tennis.

Northern Harford County
Whitehall, Pylesville, Whiteford, Street and Darlington
Picturesque landscapes adorned with sprawling farm homes, rambling hills, and bustling villages characterize scenic north Harford. The immense natural area, bordered by southern Pennsylvania and the Susquehanna River, has been largely preserved for agriculture and is home to a thriving thoroughbred breeding industry. Formerly the home of an enterprising slate and green marble mining industry, area attractions now include Fiore Winery, a lively vineyard recognized internationally for their award winning spirits, Geneva Farm Golf Course, a challenging public 18-hole green, and Rock State Park, a wooded treasure distinguished by unique stone landmarks and breathtaking waterfalls. Numerous outdoor festivals and events take place annually including the Fiore Wine and Jazz Festival, the Darlington Apple Festival, town fairs, polo matches, fox hunts, and steeple chase races.

Southern Harford County
Joppa, Abingdon, Edgewood and Belcamp
Driven by its strategic location, proximity to I-95, thriving business environment, and easily accessible MARC Train access, southern Harford County teems with activity. The diverse and culturally rich area is home to some of Harford's largest companies, including SafeNet, SAIC, EAI Corporation, Custom Direct, McCormick Company and Procter & Gamble. Waterfront executive housing and premier corporate campuses straddle the Route 40 Corridor, which joins Baltimore, Harford, and Cecil County. Tranquil golf courses, spirited recreation centers, large movie-theaters, trendy brand-name stores, and state-of-the-art libraries guarantee residents infinite entertainment opportunities. Built on the shoreline of Gunpowder Ridge, the water-oriented community of Joppa offers many recreational activities. Home styles range from individual and semi-detached single family residences to contemporary townhouses and condominiums. Edgewood and Abingdon offer a mix of suburban and rural living enhanced by the Bush River and the recreational activities it offers. Homes are available in every style and price range

Mid-Western Harford County
Monkton, Jarrettsville, Forest Hill, Fallston and Baldwin
Mid-western Harford County, bordered by Baltimore County, offer residents express access to urban amenities without compromising its suburban appeal. Its strategic location, scenic setting, and abun-dant recreational opportunities have made it one of the wealthiest and fastest growing regions in the County. Sophisticated boutiques, con-temporary athletic clubs, convenience stores, and fine dining frame this once largely agricultural community. Western Harford attractions include Ladew Topiary Gardens, a 22-acre world renowned historic manor home and garden, the Susquehanna Symphony Orchestra, an 80 member ensemble, and Boordy Vineyard, a nearby Baltimore County winery. This rural community features spacious single family homes on large lots. Horse farms and farmettes are also available along with considerable new home construction.

CECIL COUNTY
Situated in the heart of the mid-Atlantic region, Cecil County is located midway between Baltimore and Philadelphia international airports and seaports, and along the Interstate 95/U.S. 40 corridor.

About 70% of the County is rural, dotted with farms and preserved open space for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Five major rivers and the Chesapeake Bay provide excellent recreational opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and hunting.

Cecilton: In the early 1700s when a road system was beginning to develop in this part of the country, towns grew at crossroads. Such is the case with Cecilton in beautiful southern Cecil County. Located between the Bohemia River and Sassafras River, the Cecilton area is home to several exquisite historic manor homes and colonial estates, and rich farmland still surrounds the town today. The town that was first called Cecil Town is now a mixture of rural and residential, with a few businesses in the small downtown district. They are currently developing an extensive area of recreational fields, and Cecilton is the county's southernmost incorporated town. 410-275-2692. http://www.ceciltonmd.gov/

Charlestown: In 1742 the colonial village became the first incorporated town in Cecil County, and briefly served as the County Seat. It is located where the North East River meets the Chesapeake Bay, and in its early days was an active shipping center. The old Post Road came through Charlestown, and brought many colonial travelers to its shores. However, when the road was improved and straightened, it bypassed the town. Shortly thereafter, the county seat was moved to Elkton. Although today Charlestown is peaceful and primarily residential, you'll also find marinas, a few businesses, several restored colonial structures, and a wharf that's quite a popular place to cast a line and catch a fish. 410-287-6173. http://www.charlestownmd.org/

Chesapeake City: Once known as "The Village of Bohemia", the town happened as a result of the C&D Canal. When the canal opened in 1829, and ship traffic increased, the town sprang up along its banks. As the century continued, Chesapeake City's quaint buildings were constructed. By 1839 the town was named, and in 1849 it became incorporated. Today, an arched bridge 135' above the water spans the canal and connects the north and south sides of town. The canal, now 450' wide is the busiest in the nation. Historic South Chesapeake City is one of the County's tourist destinations, with picturesque 19th century homes, shops, waterfront restaurants, a museum, and art galleries. 410-885-5298. http://www.chesapeakecity-md.gov/

Elkton: Elkton is located on the colonial highway of America. Our forefathers navigated its waterways and traveled its roads when heading north to Philadelphia, or south to Virginia. Once known as Head of Elk, named by Captain John Smith, it sits at the northern headwaters of Chesapeake Bay. Elkton played a significant role in both the Revolutionary War and War of 1812. Today, many of the town's beautiful colonial structures remain, yet they're surrounded by buildings that reflect an active business community. Office buildings, courthouses, a hospital, and retail establishments share space with history in Elkton, which has been the County Seat since 1787. 410-398-0970. http://www.townofelkton.org/

North East: The North East River played a significant role in the early years of the town. Mills were built along its shores, farms prospered, and local fishermen found the area to be rich in stock. Though the town was settled prior to 1700, it didn't become incorporated until 1850. One of its churches, St. Mary Anne's Episcopal Church dating back to the early 1700s, has one of the oldest graveyards in the state. Graves of Susquehannock Indians date back to the 1600s. Today the neighborly town is a tourist destination for visitors who like regional foods, antique and collectible shopping, and history. A few miles south of town is Elk Neck State Park, surrounded on three sides by water. 410-287-5801. web site.

Perryville: The town on the shores of the Susquehanna River played a role in two of our Country's early wars. The ferry and Rodger's Tavern were frequented by troops and travelers heading north and south during the Revolutionary War. During the Civil War, the area became an important staging area and camp for Union soldiers and supplies. (See the Civil War section for more information) George Washington was only one of the famous people who visited the town, which after two name changes became incorporated as Perryville in 1882. Highlights of the area today include Principio Furnace, Perry Point Veteran's Hospital, Rodger's Tavern, the Perryville Train Station, Prime Outlets - Perryville, and a beautiful waterfront park. 410-642-6066. web site.

Port Deposit: Historic Port Deposit is nestled between granite cliffs and the banks of the Susquehanna River. The tiny village was once a place where men made fortunes in shipping and granite quarrying. Fishing was also a big industry with a plentiful supply of shad and rock fish. The entire town is now on the National Historic Register, and its architecture is reminiscent of its glory days in the 1800s. The waterfront which was once a port for arrival of arks and rafts loaded with sellable goods, now houses boat slips and an attractive condominium community. While revitalization efforts proceed, travelers come to town for river fishing, eateries, and a stroll down a unique and historic Main Street. Take a walk along the shore of the Susquehanna River as you tour this historic river town. 410-378-2121 web site

Rising Sun: In the 1700s a tavern at the center of town, the location where five wagon trails and many frontier travelers met, was named The Rising Sun. Travelers often spoke of meeting there. At that time, the town was mostly a cluster of log houses. In 1802, with the arrival of a post office, the town adopted the pleasant name of Rising Sun. It was originally part of the Nottingham Lots of Pennsylvania, land given by William Penn to the colonists. But when the Mason Dixon Line was established along the Pennsylvania and Maryland state border, Rising Sun became part of Cecil County. One of the town's most famous visitors was the Marquis de Lafayette. He and his army camped nearby on April 12, 1781. 410-658-5353. http://www.mdmunicipal.org/cities/index.cfm?townname=RisingSun&page=home

BALTIMORE COUNTY

Living in Baltimore County means a comfortable blend of waterfront living, historic neighborhoods, suburban communities, and rural landscapes, all within easy commuting distance of APG and downtown Baltimore. Baltimore County surrounds interstate 695, the area's main highway, called the Beltway.

White Marsh/Perry Hall/Parkville
Distance from APG: 22 miles

White Marsh is a vibrant master-planned community near I-95 with new housing anchored by a shopping mall and a family-oriented Main Street. Nearby Perry Hall and Parkville enjoy tree-lined neighborhoods with good schools and affordable homes.

Essex/Middle River/Dundalk
Distance from APG: 27 miles

Savvy investors are taking note of Dundalk, Essex, and Middle River. More than 5,000 new homes are planned or under construction, including waterfront homes, town houses and single family communities, all near 175 miles of Chesapeake Bay shoreline.

Towson
Distance from APG: 32 miles

Towson, the county seat, is a small city with its historic courthouse, corporate offices and two major universities. Restaurants, bookstores, live music venues, and a regional shopping mall anchored by Nordstrom are among the attractions.

Phoenix/Baldwin/Hunt Valley
Distance from APG: 40 miles

Discover executive and golf course homes, historic farm houses and modern single family communities set against picturesque steeplechase country.

Please visit in person or online. Gateway to Living & Working in Baltimore County www.baltimorecountymd.gov/go/gateway

BALTIMORE CITY
Baltimore City is home to more than 225 charming and distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character, just waiting for you to discover. The average home price in Baltimore has increased from $86,000 in 2000 to $175,000 in 2006.

General Link:
www.livebaltimore.com

More Specific Links:
http://www.livebaltimore.com/nb/hs/ (current sales stats)
http://www.livebaltimore.com/nb/list/ (neighborhood list)
http://www.livebaltimore.com/nb/map/ (neighborhood map)
http://www.livebaltimore.com/hb/ (steps to purchasing a home)
http://www.livebaltimore.com/rent/ (information on renting)

DELAWARE

NEW CASTLE COUNTY
New Castle County is situated at the mid-point of the New York City-Washington, D.C. I-95 and Amtrak corridor offering unparalleled access to our nation's centers of finance and government. With a population of more than half a million people, New Castle County offers a high quality living environment and reasonable costs.

Part of the Philadelphia CMSA, New Castle County is a major employment center with a diverse economy. New Castle County is home to a diverse business community with all types and sizes of businesses. Here you will find everything from one-person, home-based enterprises to large multinational corporations in the banking, financial services, technology, chemical, and pharmaceutical arenas.

With a land area of 494 square miles, the County's landscapes vary from the rolling hills and forest covered "Chateau Country" in the north, to farmland and tidal marshes in the south. With its strategic location in the Mid-Atlantic section of the east coast, New Castle County offers easy access to the region's major metropolitan centers. People all across the country are recognizing New Castle County as a wonderful place to visit - and an even better place to call home.

New Castle County COMMUNITIES

PENNSYLVANIA

CHESTER COUNTY
Chester County http://dsf.chesco.org/ is located in southeastern Pennsylvania's Delaware Valley Region approximately 30 to 45 minutes from Aberdeen Proving Ground. It borders both Cecil County and Harford County in Maryland, as well as New Castle County in Delaware. Its proximity to Philadelphia, Wilmington, New York and Baltimore offers businesses a geographical advantage. With approximately 25% of the nation's consumer buying power lying within a day's drive, the region introduces a wealth of economic opportunities, yet maintains its magnificent vistas and historic charm.

LANCASTER COUNTY
Known worldwide as "Pennsylvania Dutch Country," Lancaster County http://www.co.lancaster.pa.us/lanco/site/default.asp attracts an estimated seven million people to its lush, rolling farmland; charming historic districts; and historical landmarks each year. Here, families delight in the magic of a simpler time, while enjoying the comforts afforded by any big city. Located within a short drive of Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., Lancaster County is a popular destination for day trips, weekend escapes and extended vacations.
In Pennsylvania Dutch Country you'll have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to partake in such activities as touring an operating Amish farm and house, visiting a one-room schoolhouse and riding over the rolling countryside in a steam train or horse and buggy. Those that appreciate the simpler way of life won't want to miss the shops, restaurants, galleries & interesting places the historic village of Intercourse has to offer.

YORK COUNTY
http://www.rayac.com/

You will be astonished how far your money will go for housing in York County. Despite the steady growth experienced within the County, the cost of living remains below many nearby metropolitan areas and surrounding counties. Perhaps this is why York County leads Pennsylvania in new home construction and is the second fastest growing county in the Commonwealth.

Prospective homeowners find that the equity they bring from the sale of a previous home buys a lot more house in York County. The low price of housing and relatively low tax burden makes the area a great place for first-time buyers.

Whether you're hoping to purchase your dream home or first home, there's a selection for any taste and every budget: old farmhouses, new condos, nineteenth century Victorian mansions, quaint row homes, and new homes. If you'd rather build than buy, parcels of land are plentiful and new home communities are found throughout York County.

York County has attracted a growing number of retirees in recent years. The abundance of housing options, variety of cultural and recreational diversions, high quality of life, and easy access to nearby metropolitan areas are just a few of the reasons that make York County a great place to retire. Further, both the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and County of York offer a number of services geared specifically toward seniors and retirees.

York County Area Agency on Aging, the local arm of Pennsylvania's Department of Aging, is the main contact in the county for information, advice, and support services for seniors in the County. In addition to implementing state programs at the local level, the agency coordinates a number of programs to help make the transition into retirement easier.

Wondering where to find your new York County home? Here's a brief guide that will help you get started with your search.

City of York: There are incentives to attract new residents and encourage the renovation of the City's historic homes. New development and renovation is currently underway as part of the Codorus Creek corridor improvement project, which includes new residential, recreational and commercial recreational construction projects along the Codorus Creek. Recent projects include Roosevelt Townhomes, The Lofts on George Street, Victorian townhomes on Locust Street, and Doctor's Row on West Market Street.

Greater York : Most of the county's population is located in the suburban areas around the city. You will find plenty of housing options, including single wooded lots, middle-class neighborhoods and upscale communities. The townships and boroughs in this region have seen increased population and new development. Great examples are Manchester Township, Dallastown and Red Lion.

Hanover Area : The Hanover area is the county's second largest population center, with a strong presence of retail and manufacturing industries. Hanover is a designated historic district, and its active preservation movement has kept the quaint charm of the town intact. Restored Victorian and Colonial style homes are among the unique housing options in the downtown area. Surrounding areas include Penn and Heidelberg townships.

Southern York County: Southern York County is the place to go for a rural and small-town feel without sacrificing the career opportunities of a major metropolitan region. This area sits between York City and Baltimore, and people who live here enjoy an easy commute to both. Housing opportunities include 18th century farms and white-picket-fence neighborhoods just outside towns like Shrewsbury, Stewartstown and New Freedom.

Northern York County: In the northern part of the county, Fairview Township has a heavy concentration of suburban neighborhoods, providing housing for those who work in and around Harrisburg. Options include old farms, small town dwellings and even new developments.