Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Shady Side, MD
Considering a move to Shady Side, MD? This scenic Chesapeake Bay community has a population of about 6,200 and offers a relaxed, small-town feel with median home prices near $412,500 and typical rents of $1,780. Residents enjoy peaceful neighborhoods, low violent crime (148 per 100K), and a commute averaging 35.5 minutes. With strong local schools, friendly neighbors, and over half the year as sunny days, Shady Side is a great option for those seeking coastal charm within reach of Annapolis and Baltimore.
Demographics - Shady Side, MD
Demographics - Shady Side, MD
Shady Side, MD is home to approximately 6,200 residents, with a median age of 48.2, reflecting a mature community. The area is predominantly White (83.5%), with a balanced gender ratio and about 6% of residents speaking a language other than English. Its moderate population density offers a quieter, small-town experience ideal for families and retirees alike.
Population:
6,200
Density:
590 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.3%

Ethnic Composition
White:
83.5%
Black:
10.2%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
5.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Shady Side, MD?
The cost of living in Shady Side is slightly above the national average, driven by a median house value of $412,500 and typical monthly rents around $1,780. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also higher than average, making budgeting important for new residents. State income taxes range from 2.0% to 5.75%, contributing to overall living expenses.
Median House Value:
$412,500
Gross Rent:
$1,780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$142
Auto Insurance:
$1,480
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,200
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$680
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
116.3
Grocery:
113.1
Housing:
122.8
Utilities:
109.2
Transportation:
117.6
Health Care:
107.9
Miscellaneous:
105.4
Crime
Is Shady Side, MD a safe place to live?
Shady Side experiences low violent crime rates, with just 148 incidents per 100,000 residents, and a 1 in 675 chance of being affected. Property crime is more common but remains manageable for a coastal community, with a 1 in 90 chance. The area’s overall crime index supports a sense of safety for families and individuals.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
148
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,110
Crime Index:
1,258
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 675
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 90
Weather
What is the weather like in Shady Side, MD year-round?
Residents enjoy a temperate climate, with mild winters averaging lows of 28°F and warm summers reaching highs of 88°F. The area receives about 44 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 57% sunny days, making outdoor activities appealing throughout the year. Seasonal changes offer a comfortable environment for those who appreciate coastal weather.

Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
43°F

Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
69°F

Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
88°F

Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Shady Side’s households enjoy a median income of $103,200 and a relatively low poverty rate of 6%. The community is well-educated, with nearly 94% holding at least a high school diploma and 39% earning a bachelor’s degree or higher. Commute times average 35.5 minutes, reflecting its proximity to job centers while maintaining a peaceful residential feel.
Median Income:
$47,800
Household Income:
$103,200
Family Income:
$112,400
Per Capita Income:
$44,200
Income Male:
$56,500
Income Female:
$47,900
Poverty Rate:
6.0%
Non English Speakers:
6.3%
Rent:
$1,780
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
2.4%
Commute Time:
35.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.6%
Bachelors or More:
39.2%
Education
How are the schools in Shady Side, MD?
Shady Side is served by reputable public schools such as Shady Side Elementary and Southern Middle School, both offering favorable student-teacher ratios. Private education options like Summit School are also available, and higher education is accessible nearby at Anne Arundel Community College and St. John's College. The area’s educational resources support learners of all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Shady Side Elementary School
Street:
4859 Atwell Rd
Phone:
410-222-1621
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Name:
Southern Middle School
Street:
5235 Solomons Island Rd
Phone:
410-222-1650
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6

Private Schools
Name:
Summit School
Street:
664 E Central Ave
Phone:
410-798-0005
Students:
120

Colleges
Name:
Anne Arundel Community College
City:
Arnold
State:
MD
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
11,000
Name:
St. John's College
City:
Annapolis
State:
MD
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
500
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong in Shady Side, with 2.9 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 95% of the population covered by health insurance. Major hospitals like Anne Arundel Medical Center and MedStar Harbor Hospital are within easy reach, providing comprehensive services including emergency care. The area’s healthcare index indicates reliable and accessible medical support.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Anne Arundel Medical Center
Address:
2001 Medical Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone:
(443) 481-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
MedStar Harbor Hospital
Address:
3001 S Hanover St, Baltimore, MD 21225
Phone:
(410) 350-3200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.7%
Health Care Index:
76.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Shady Side, MD?
The housing market in Shady Side is robust, with a median home price of $412,500 and most residents (78%) owning their homes. Rental vacancies are low at 4.8%, and the local market has seen a healthy annual appreciation rate of 4.6%. The area’s stable real estate environment makes it attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$412,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,780
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Shady Side residents are provided by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration in Glen Burnie. The MVA offers a full range of licensing, registration, and title services, with information available on their official website. Convenient access ensures that handling vehicle-related needs is straightforward for locals.
State:
Maryland
Department:
Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
Address:
6601 Ritchie Highway NE, Glen Burnie, MD 21062
Phone:
1-410-768-7000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.