Things to Know Before Moving to Bethesda MD 2024

March 15, 2024

Things to Know Before Moving to Bethesda MD 2024

Moving to Bethesda, MD, presents a blend of opportunities and considerations across various aspects of living, from economic vibrancy to lifestyle and education. Here’s what you should know before making the move in 2024

Get to know the local culture and people – take the time to explore neighborhoods, attend community events, and meet people!

One of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in a new place is to get to know the local culture and people. If you’re visiting a new city or town, take the time to explore different neighborhoods and stroll through the streets. You can get a sense of the area’s history, traditions, and customs just by observing the architecture, street art, and local businesses. Attending community events can also be a great way to meet people and get involved in the local culture. From festivals and parades to farmers’ markets and open-air concerts, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the community spirit and connect with the locals. So don’t be shy – strike up a conversation with a friendly face and see where the conversation takes you!

BETHESDA, MD POPULATION & DEMOGRAPHICS

Age: The median age in Bethesda is approximately 43.5 years.
Gender:
- Female: 51.36%
- Male: 48.64%.
Race and Ethnicity:
- White: 73.37%
- Asian: 11.66%
- Two or more races: 8.22%
- Black or African American: 4.89%
- Other race: 1.6%
- Native American: 0.26%
- Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: negligible percentages.
Education:
- High school graduate or higher: 97.7%
- Bachelor’s degree or higher: 87.7%.
Household Income:
- Median household income: approximately $158,720
- Per capita income: about $105,420.

Bethesda showcases a highly educated community with a relatively high median household income, reflecting its affluent status. The population is predominantly white, with significant Asian representation and a diverse mix of other races and ethnicities. The gender distribution is fairly balanced, and the community skews towards middle-aged residents, with a median age significantly higher than both the state of Maryland and the broader Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metro area.

The cost of living in Bethesda MD

Living in Bethesda, MD, means experiencing a cost of living that is significantly above both the national and state averages. The overall cost of living index in Bethesda is marked at 138.5, indicating that living costs are 38.5% higher than the U.S. average and 23.9% higher than the Maryland average. Housing is a major factor in the high cost of living, with median home prices around $1,072,100, which is considerably higher than the national average. The recommended minimum annual income to live comfortably in Bethesda is $205,560 for families and $82,400 for single individuals. Despite the high costs, Bethesda offers a high median household income and a robust local economy, driven by sectors like healthcare, defense, and finance.

Cost of Items (Everyday Expenses) in Bethesda MD

COST OF ITEMS (EVERYDAY EXPENSES) IN CHEVY CHASE MD

Here’s a summary of the cost of everyday expenses in Bethesda, MD:

Restaurants
- Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant: $17.00 ($12.00 – $30.00)
- Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course: $80.00 ($50.00 – $100.00)
- Cappuccino (regular): $5.38 ($3.00 – $6.00)
Markets
- Milk (regular), (1 gallon): $4.60 ($2.89 – $5.50)
- Bread (1 lb): $2.46 ($1.49 – $5.00)
- Chicken Fillets (1 lb): $5.49 ($2.49 – $7.99)
- Apples (1 lb): $2.08 ($1.00 – $2.79)
Utilities (Monthly for 915 sq ft Apartment)
- Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage): $201.84 ($87.18 – $300.00)
- Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL): $69.52 ($40.00 – $90.00)
Transportation
- Gasoline (1 gallon): $3.42 ($2.96 – $3.99)
- One-way Ticket (Local Transport): $3.00 ($3.00 – $3.50)
Rent Per Month
- Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre: $2,050.00 ($2,000.00 – $3,000.00)
- Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre: $5,375.00 ($4,000.00 – $9,000.00)
Salaries And Financing
- Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax): $7,747.33

These figures give an overview of what you might expect to spend on basic goods and services in Bethesda, MD.

Bethesda, MD Weather

Bethesda, Maryland, experiences diverse weather conditions across the seasons:

Summer: Warm and humid, with occasional thunderstorms. Temperatures often reach the upper 80s to low 90s (°F).
Fall: Mild and pleasant, with cooler temperatures and less humidity. Leaves change color, creating picturesque scenery.
Winter: Cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall varies, with occasional heavy snowstorms.
Spring: Mild and unpredictable, with a mix of warm days and cool nights. Frequent rain showers help to bring out early blooms.

These variations offer a distinct experience of each season in Bethesda.

Things to Do in Bethesda, MD

In Bethesda, MD, you can explore a variety of activities, such as enjoying outdoor concerts at Strathmore, visiting art galleries, hiking or biking along the Capital Crescent Trail, dining at diverse restaurants offering global cuisines, and shopping at unique boutiques in Bethesda Row. The area’s vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks, and close proximity to Washington D.C. also provide plenty of opportunities for cultural exploration and outdoor recreation.

Explore the galleries and studios during the Bethesda Art Walk.
Attend live performances at Strathmore Music Center and Round House Theatre.
Dine at a variety of restaurants offering international cuisines.
Shop at boutique stores and outdoor markets in Bethesda Row.
Enjoy outdoor activities along the Capital Crescent Trail.
Visit the local farmers’ markets for fresh produce.
Explore the exhibits at the National Museum of Health and Medicine.
Participate in community events at Bethesda Urban Partnership.
Relax in Cabin John Regional Park and Glen Echo Park.

Bethesda MD Restaurants

Bethesda, MD, offers a diverse and vibrant dining scene with several top-rated restaurants. Here’s a selection of some of the best eateries you might want to check out:

Jaleo: This place is known for its Spanish tapas, including classics like sharp Manchego and garlicky shrimp. It’s a bit on the pricey side but offers a taste of renowned restaurateur Jose Andres’ creations.
Duck Duck Goose: A cozy brasserie offering a menu of both large and small dishes, including a dry-aged namesake duck. It’s perfect for a cozy date night and also falls into the pricey category.
Kapnos Kouzina: Offers a focus on shareable mezzes and has an excellent happy hour. It’s known for its bright, fresh flavors of Greece, with prices being average.
Mon Ami Gabi: A French bistro that specializes in French cuisine, such as mussels mariniére and escargots de bourgogne, with a noted brunch on weekends. It’s recommended for special occasions or family dinners.
Gringos & Mariachis: Known for its margaritas and taco-heavy menu, it’s perfect for authentic, hearty Mexican classics in a lively atmosphere.
Barrel and Crow: This place is celebrated for its Mid-Atlantic plates prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from local producers. It also has a full bar with a wide selection of cocktails and other spirits.
Olazzo: An Italian-American restaurant that offers a range of Italian entrees, from salads to pasta, in an intimate setting ideal for a romantic dinner.
Guapo’s Restaurant: Offers award-winning fajitas and made-from-scratch Latin American and Mexican staples. It’s a great spot for Mexican food lovers.
Black’s Bar & Kitchen: A favorite for fresh seafood and New American dishes, it features an elegant wine list and an upscale dining room.
Alatri Bros: Specializes in Italian-inspired casual dishes and wood-fired pizzas, known for its robust flavors.

These selections offer a taste of Bethesda’s culinary diversity, from casual to upscale dining experiences, encompassing a variety of cuisines from American to French, Mexican, and Italian. Each restaurant brings its unique charm and specialties to the table, making Bethesda a notable destination for food enthusiasts.

Construction Bethesda MD

Bethesda, MD, is another area known for its dynamic growth and development, featuring a blend of residential, commercial, and public projects that contribute to its vibrancy and appeal. Here are some noteworthy construction projects in Bethesda:

Bethesda Metro Center Redevelopment: This project aims to transform the Bethesda Metro Center with new public spaces, commercial buildings, and potentially residential units, enhancing the connectivity and utility of this key transit hub.
Marriott International Headquarters: The construction of the new Marriott International Headquarters is a significant development in downtown Bethesda. This state-of-the-art campus will include office spaces for thousands of Marriott employees and a flagship hotel..
4500 East West Highway: A modern office building that offers eco-friendly features and state-of-the-art facilities for businesses. Its prime location and innovative design make it a notable addition to Bethesda’s skyline.
The Wilson and The Elm: This mixed-use development includes two towers, with The Wilson offering office space and The Elm providing luxury apartments. The project is notable for its contribution to the residential and commercial offerings in downtown Bethesda.
Bethesda Purple Line Station: As part of the broader Purple Line light rail project, the Bethesda station is undergoing construction to provide improved transit options connecting Bethesda with other parts of Montgomery County and Prince George’s County.

These projects are among the many initiatives contributing to Bethesda’s development, reflecting the area’s ongoing evolution into a more vibrant, accessible, and livable community.

Interior Designers in Bethesda Md

Boss Design Center – a design and construction firm that offers a full range of design and construction services for residential and commercial clients, with a focus on creating innovative and sustainable designs. Boss Design Center has a showroom in downtown Bethesda MD.

Kitchen Remodeling Cost in Bethesda MD 2024

The cost of a kitchen remodeling project in Chevy Chase, MD can vary widely depending on the scope of the project, the materials used, and the specific contractor you choose. However, as of 2024, the average cost of a kitchen remodel in Bethesda, MD is approximately $100,000 to $400,000. This cost includes materials, labor, and permits.

Here is a breakdown of the approximate cost of each component of a kitchen remodel in Bethesda, MD:

Cabinets: $32,000- $80,000
Countertops: $7,000 – $22,000
Flooring: $12,000 – $16,000
Appliances: $8,000 – $25,000
Plumbing and Electrical: $6,000 – $9,000
Lighting: $3,000 – $7,500
Design and Planning: $3,000 – $7,000
Permits and Fees: $1,000 – $2,000

Again, please note that these are only approximate costs and can vary depending on the specific details of your kitchen remodeling project. It is always a good idea to consult with multiple contractors to get an accurate estimate for your specific project. Check out the most popular kitchen color for 2024 for the Bethesda MD area

Home Addition Cost in Bethesda MD 2024

In Bethesda, MD, the cost of home additions varies significantly based on the scope, quality of materials, and specific requirements of each project. Here’s a summary of the costs involved in building a home addition in the area:

Standard Construction Costs: On average, building a home addition costs approximately $150.50 per square foot for standard-grade construction.

20×20 Room Addition: For a standard grade construction, a 20×20 room addition can range from $50,000 to $100,000, with premium grade constructions at the higher end of this range.
Average Costs for Specific Sizes: Costs for a 20×20 addition range between $40,000 and $131,000; a 20×30 addition costs between $60,000 and $197,000; and a 20×40 addition ranges from $80,000 to $263,000. A larger 25×40 addition can cost between $100,000 and $329,000, reflecting the variation from standard to premium grade construction.
High-End Renovation Projects: For more extensive renovation projects involving room additions, costs can escalate to about $300 to $500 per square foot, making most additions in the Bethesda area start around $300,000.

It’s important to note that these prices can fluctuate based on many factors, including the complexity of the project, the materials used, and the current market conditions. For the most accurate estimate, consulting with local contractors or construction firms is recommended.

Bethesda is a great city in Northern Maryland, it is also neighbor of Chevy Chase, biggest differences between those cities are the zoning and planning. Chevy Chase MD is more dedicated to residential properties, please check out or Things to Know before Moving to Chevy Chase MD Post