I’ve analyzed the Zillow Home Value Index data to identify Maryland’s towns with the strongest property appreciation over the past decade. These communities have consistently outperformed the state average despite various economic challenges.
With its strategic position between Washington D.C., Baltimore, and the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland offers diverse real estate opportunities from coastal retreats to commuter-friendly suburbs. The strongest growth is occurring in previously undervalued markets where affordability meets accessibility.
The percentage increases below reflect significant wealth-building opportunities for homeowners who invested in these communities. These growth patterns highlight Maryland’s evolving real estate landscape where smaller towns are increasingly capturing buyer interest and investment dollars.
25. Ocean City
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 77.89%
- Home value in 2016: $249,361
- Home value in 2017: $250,003
- Home value in 2018: $259,793
- Home value in 2019: $272,422
- Home value in 2020: $280,769
- Home value in 2021: $312,456
- Home value in 2022: $396,721
- Home value in 2023: $420,886
- Home value in 2024: $445,362
- Home value in 2025: $443,597
Ocean City’s 77.9% appreciation has generated $194,236 in homeowner equity, representing substantial wealth creation through strategic coastal property investment. The remarkable 58.0% surge since 2020 reflects accelerating demand for vacation properties and remote work-friendly locations. Despite commanding premium prices, Ocean City offers stronger appreciation than many comparable East Coast beach communities. The resort town’s substantial seasonal rental income potential creates a compelling total return profile for investors. Recent stabilization suggests a market catching its breath after extraordinary pandemic-era gains.
24. Halfway
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 78.09%
- Home value in 2016: $156,157
- Home value in 2017: $159,860
- Home value in 2018: $164,833
- Home value in 2019: $173,570
- Home value in 2020: $182,821
- Home value in 2021: $203,202
- Home value in 2022: $231,306
- Home value in 2023: $241,018
- Home value in 2024: $261,825
- Home value in 2025: $278,102
Halfway’s impressive 78.1% appreciation has generated $121,945 in homeowner equity—significant wealth building through real estate in this Washington County community. The accelerating 52.1% growth since 2020 demonstrates increasing market recognition of this area’s value proposition. Despite substantial gains, Halfway properties remain accessible at $278,102, suggesting continued upside potential for investors. This western Maryland location benefits from relative affordability compared to the D.C. metro area while offering proximity to employment centers. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
23. Greensboro
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 78.45%
- Home value in 2016: $164,957
- Home value in 2017: $166,443
- Home value in 2018: $178,667
- Home value in 2019: $187,885
- Home value in 2020: $208,891
- Home value in 2021: $233,164
- Home value in 2022: $264,551
- Home value in 2023: $266,280
- Home value in 2024: $277,553
- Home value in 2025: $294,364
Greensboro’s substantial 78.5% appreciation has generated $129,407 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation in this Eastern Shore community. The impressive 40.9% surge since 2020 reflects growing recognition of small-town values amid changing work patterns and housing preferences. Despite strong performance, properties remain accessible at $294,364, creating continued investment opportunity compared to nearby areas. Greensboro’s strategic location on the Choptank River offers both lifestyle benefits and investment appeal for regional buyers. Recent price trajectory indicates steady market strength with continued upside potential rather than volatility.
22. Hancock
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 78.50%
- Home value in 2016: $130,121
- Home value in 2017: $130,882
- Home value in 2018: $139,242
- Home value in 2019: $146,084
- Home value in 2020: $152,663
- Home value in 2021: $176,456
- Home value in 2022: $198,077
- Home value in 2023: $198,375
- Home value in 2024: $213,397
- Home value in 2025: $232,267
Hancock’s impressive 78.5% appreciation has yielded $102,146 in homeowner equity—substantial wealth creation at Maryland’s most accessible price point on this list. The remarkable 52.1% acceleration since 2020 demonstrates growing market recognition of western Maryland’s value proposition. With average values still below $235,000, Hancock offers both affordability and proven appreciation potential for first-time buyers and investors. The town’s strategic location along I-70 and proximity to both Pennsylvania and West Virginia creates cross-state appeal. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
21. Ridgely
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 78.87%
- Home value in 2016: $198,189
- Home value in 2017: $202,904
- Home value in 2018: $213,278
- Home value in 2019: $226,016
- Home value in 2020: $249,186
- Home value in 2021: $283,390
- Home value in 2022: $318,258
- Home value in 2023: $317,719
- Home value in 2024: $335,130
- Home value in 2025: $354,507
Ridgely’s impressive 78.9% appreciation has generated $156,319 in homeowner equity—substantial wealth creation through real estate in this Caroline County town. The remarkable 42.3% surge since 2020 reflects accelerating market recognition of Eastern Shore value as urban migration patterns shift. Despite this strong performance, Ridgely remains accessibly priced at $354,507, suggesting continued upside potential. The town’s rural character, historic downtown, and relative proximity to both the Bay Bridge and Delaware create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates steady growth with minimal volatility, confirming market confidence in Ridgely’s long-term value.
20. Millington
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 79.03%
- Home value in 2016: $184,848
- Home value in 2017: $186,485
- Home value in 2018: $195,918
- Home value in 2019: $209,446
- Home value in 2020: $224,665
- Home value in 2021: $260,969
- Home value in 2022: $288,297
- Home value in 2023: $292,139
- Home value in 2024: $313,352
- Home value in 2025: $330,925
Millington’s substantial 79.0% appreciation has generated $146,077 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic real estate positioning in this Kent County town. The impressive 47.3% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market recognition of Eastern Shore value amid shifting work and lifestyle preferences. Despite strong gains, properties remain accessibly priced at $330,925, suggesting continued upside potential compared to nearby areas. Millington’s waterfront character, small-town charm, and strategic location near Delaware create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates steady market confidence rather than speculative volatility.
19. Greater Landover
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 79.96%
- Home value in 2016: $176,747
- Home value in 2017: $192,149
- Home value in 2018: $214,548
- Home value in 2019: $232,416
- Home value in 2020: $248,961
- Home value in 2021: $274,004
- Home value in 2022: $298,990
- Home value in 2023: $298,543
- Home value in 2024: $305,381
- Home value in 2025: $318,080
Greater Landover’s impressive 80.0% appreciation has generated $141,332 in homeowner equity—substantial wealth creation through strategic positioning in Prince George’s County. The early acceleration (32.1% in the first three years) indicates Landover’s early recognition as a D.C. commuter alternative, while the overall gains confirm its enduring appeal. Despite strong performance, properties remain affordably priced at $318,080 relative to nearby D.C. suburbs, suggesting continued investment opportunity. The area’s Metro access, commercial development, and proximity to employment centers create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price stabilization suggests a consolidation phase after years of strong appreciation.
18. Denton
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 80.07%
- Home value in 2016: $191,722
- Home value in 2017: $196,459
- Home value in 2018: $208,472
- Home value in 2019: $220,065
- Home value in 2020: $232,126
- Home value in 2021: $262,634
- Home value in 2022: $300,713
- Home value in 2023: $308,853
- Home value in 2024: $329,071
- Home value in 2025: $345,230
Denton’s substantial 80.1% appreciation has generated $153,508 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Caroline County seat. The impressive 48.7% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market recognition of Eastern Shore value amid shifting work and lifestyle preferences. Despite strong performance, properties remain accessibly priced at $345,230, suggesting continued upside potential. Denton’s riverfront character, historic downtown, and county government presence create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
17. Willards
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 80.39%
- Home value in 2016: $153,393
- Home value in 2017: $157,052
- Home value in 2018: $159,825
- Home value in 2019: $168,304
- Home value in 2020: $178,258
- Home value in 2021: $194,015
- Home value in 2022: $225,129
- Home value in 2023: $238,217
- Home value in 2024: $261,380
- Home value in 2025: $276,705
Willards’ impressive 80.4% appreciation has generated $123,311 in homeowner equity—substantial wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Wicomico County town. The remarkable 55.2% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as Eastern Shore properties gain recognition. Despite more than doubling in value, Willards remains highly accessible at $276,705, suggesting continued upside potential for investors. The town’s strategic location near Ocean City and Salisbury offers both weekend destination and year-round employment access. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
16. Fairmount Heights
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 80.73%
- Home value in 2016: $192,084
- Home value in 2017: $198,524
- Home value in 2018: $221,615
- Home value in 2019: $235,235
- Home value in 2020: $258,291
- Home value in 2021: $292,192
- Home value in 2022: $321,112
- Home value in 2023: $326,154
- Home value in 2024: $329,714
- Home value in 2025: $347,157
Fairmount Heights’ substantial 80.7% appreciation has generated $155,073 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning in this historic Prince George’s County town. The early acceleration (34.4% in just four years) indicates growing recognition of value near D.C., while continued growth confirms its enduring appeal. Despite strong performance, properties remain affordable at $347,157 compared to nearby D.C. neighborhoods, suggesting continued investment potential. The town’s historic significance, proximity to Metro, and D.C. border location create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price stabilization suggests a consolidation phase after years of strong appreciation.
15. Hagerstown
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 80.91%
- Home value in 2016: $152,987
- Home value in 2017: $158,424
- Home value in 2018: $163,894
- Home value in 2019: $171,700
- Home value in 2020: $180,370
- Home value in 2021: $198,861
- Home value in 2022: $231,715
- Home value in 2023: $245,842
- Home value in 2024: $263,144
- Home value in 2025: $276,764
Hagerstown’s impressive 80.9% appreciation has generated $123,778 in homeowner equity—substantial wealth creation through strategic positioning in western Maryland. The remarkable 53.4% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as buyers seek value outside major metro areas. Despite strong performance, Hagerstown remains highly accessible at $276,764, suggesting continued upside potential for investors. The city’s strategic location along I-70/I-81, historic downtown, and relative affordability create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
14. Indian Head
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 81.12%
- Home value in 2016: $186,128
- Home value in 2017: $197,962
- Home value in 2018: $213,079
- Home value in 2019: $224,887
- Home value in 2020: $234,190
- Home value in 2021: $262,690
- Home value in 2022: $291,393
- Home value in 2023: $297,228
- Home value in 2024: $322,826
- Home value in 2025: $337,124
Indian Head’s substantial 81.1% appreciation has generated $150,995 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Charles County town. The impressive 44.0% surge since 2020 demonstrates growing market recognition amid shifting work patterns and suburban migration. Despite strong performance, properties remain accessibly priced at $337,124, suggesting continued upside potential. The town’s waterfront location, Naval Support Facility, and proximity to Washington D.C. create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
13. Morningside
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 82.93%
- Home value in 2016: $184,610
- Home value in 2017: $200,238
- Home value in 2018: $214,576
- Home value in 2019: $235,618
- Home value in 2020: $253,017
- Home value in 2021: $287,134
- Home value in 2022: $315,754
- Home value in 2023: $317,186
- Home value in 2024: $322,402
- Home value in 2025: $337,700
Morningside’s impressive 82.9% appreciation has generated $153,090 in homeowner equity—substantial wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Prince George’s County town. The early acceleration (37.4% in just four years) demonstrates strong initial market recognition, while continued growth confirms its enduring appeal. Despite strong performance, properties remain affordably priced at $337,700 compared to nearby D.C. suburbs, suggesting continued investment potential. The town’s proximity to Joint Base Andrews, established residential character, and convenient location create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price stabilization suggests a consolidation phase after years of consistent appreciation.
12. Seat Pleasant
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 83.76%
- Home value in 2016: $171,405
- Home value in 2017: $188,009
- Home value in 2018: $207,990
- Home value in 2019: $222,896
- Home value in 2020: $239,422
- Home value in 2021: $269,781
- Home value in 2022: $295,501
- Home value in 2023: $297,746
- Home value in 2024: $302,205
- Home value in 2025: $314,978
Seat Pleasant’s substantial 83.8% appreciation has generated $143,573 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Prince George’s County community. The early acceleration (39.7% in just four years) reflects growing recognition of value near D.C., while continued growth confirms its enduring appeal. Despite strong performance, properties remain affordable at $314,978 compared to nearby D.C. neighborhoods, suggesting continued investment potential. The town’s Metro accessibility, D.C. border location, and relative affordability create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price moderation suggests a consolidation phase after years of strong appreciation.
11. Pocomoke City
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 85.23%
- Home value in 2016: $112,333
- Home value in 2017: $115,702
- Home value in 2018: $121,068
- Home value in 2019: $127,846
- Home value in 2020: $138,661
- Home value in 2021: $153,486
- Home value in 2022: $175,494
- Home value in 2023: $181,402
- Home value in 2024: $206,284
- Home value in 2025: $208,073
Pocomoke City’s impressive 85.2% appreciation has generated $95,740 in homeowner equity—substantial wealth creation at Maryland’s second-most affordable price point on this list. The remarkable 50.1% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market recognition of Eastern Shore value amid shifting housing preferences. With average values still below $210,000, Pocomoke City offers both exceptional affordability and proven appreciation potential for investors. The town’s waterfront character, small-town appeal, and proximity to coastal amenities create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum as this market transitions from overlooked to sought-after.
10. Pittsville
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 85.34%
- Home value in 2016: $156,226
- Home value in 2017: $166,795
- Home value in 2018: $172,117
- Home value in 2019: $176,294
- Home value in 2020: $188,792
- Home value in 2021: $205,972
- Home value in 2022: $238,827
- Home value in 2023: $251,486
- Home value in 2024: $276,317
- Home value in 2025: $289,554
Pittsville’s substantial 85.3% appreciation has generated $133,329 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Wicomico County town. The impressive 53.4% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as eastern Maryland properties gain recognition beyond traditional coastal centers. Despite strong performance, Pittsville remains accessibly priced at $289,554, suggesting continued upside potential for investors. The town’s strategic location between Salisbury and Ocean City offers both employment center access and weekend destination proximity. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
9. Fruitland
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 85.59%
- Home value in 2016: $130,104
- Home value in 2017: $133,676
- Home value in 2018: $141,332
- Home value in 2019: $149,245
- Home value in 2020: $160,720
- Home value in 2021: $174,670
- Home value in 2022: $203,339
- Home value in 2023: $217,601
- Home value in 2024: $232,289
- Home value in 2025: $241,464
Fruitland’s impressive 85.6% appreciation has generated $111,360 in homeowner equity—substantial wealth building at one of Maryland’s most accessible price points. The remarkable 50.2% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as Salisbury-adjacent communities gain recognition for their value proposition. Despite strong performance, Fruitland remains highly affordable at $241,464, suggesting continued upside potential for investors. The town’s proximity to Salisbury University, Peninsula Regional Medical Center, and coastal amenities creates sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates steady growth momentum rather than speculative volatility in this rapidly appreciating market.
8. Henderson
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 86.22%
- Home value in 2016: $198,915
- Home value in 2017: $209,153
- Home value in 2018: $219,487
- Home value in 2019: $231,776
- Home value in 2020: $254,834
- Home value in 2021: $292,040
- Home value in 2022: $326,907
- Home value in 2023: $327,229
- Home value in 2024: $347,991
- Home value in 2025: $370,428
Henderson’s substantial 86.2% appreciation has generated $171,513 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Caroline County community. The impressive 45.4% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market recognition of Eastern Shore value amid shifting work and lifestyle preferences. Despite strong performance, properties remain accessibly priced at $370,428, offering value compared to many Maryland communities. The town’s rural character, accessibility to Chesapeake Bay, and proximity to Delaware create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
7. Royal Oak
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 86.78%
- Home value in 2016: $575,851
- Home value in 2017: $561,705
- Home value in 2018: $572,744
- Home value in 2019: $608,794
- Home value in 2020: $592,293
- Home value in 2021: $688,227
- Home value in 2022: $885,295
- Home value in 2023: $879,747
- Home value in 2024: $1,041,866
- Home value in 2025: $1,075,558
Royal Oak’s extraordinary 86.8% appreciation has transformed $575,851 investments into $1,075,558 assets, generating $499,707 in equity—remarkable wealth creation in Maryland’s premium waterfront market. The explosive 81.6% surge since 2020 demonstrates exceptional demand for luxury Eastern Shore properties amid shifting workplace flexibility. Despite commanding the highest values on this list, Royal Oak’s waterfront location and limited inventory support continued price stability. The town’s Chesapeake Bay setting, proximity to St. Michaels, and exclusive character create sustainable demand among affluent buyers. Recent trajectory confirms Royal Oak’s position as Maryland’s premier luxury growth market.
6. Federalsburg
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 93.01%
- Home value in 2016: $116,206
- Home value in 2017: $121,895
- Home value in 2018: $126,230
- Home value in 2019: $137,936
- Home value in 2020: $144,789
- Home value in 2021: $166,850
- Home value in 2022: $186,332
- Home value in 2023: $194,138
- Home value in 2024: $208,477
- Home value in 2025: $224,289
Federalsburg’s exceptional 93.0% appreciation has generated $108,084 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation at one of Maryland’s most accessible price points. The impressive 54.9% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market recognition of this Caroline County town amid shifting housing preferences. Despite posting top-tier appreciation, Federalsburg remains highly affordable at $224,289, suggesting significant continued upside potential for investors. The town’s riverfront character, manufacturing heritage, and access to both the Chesapeake and Delaware create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in this rapidly appreciating market.
5. Hurlock
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 93.81%
- Home value in 2016: $131,299
- Home value in 2017: $133,508
- Home value in 2018: $145,146
- Home value in 2019: $156,976
- Home value in 2020: $167,072
- Home value in 2021: $192,599
- Home value in 2022: $219,049
- Home value in 2023: $230,160
- Home value in 2024: $244,033
- Home value in 2025: $254,472
Hurlock’s remarkable 93.8% appreciation has generated $123,173 in homeowner equity—exceptional wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Dorchester County town. The impressive 52.3% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as Eastern Shore communities gain recognition beyond traditional centers. Despite posting top-tier appreciation, Hurlock remains accessibly priced at $254,472, suggesting continued upside potential for investors. The town’s agricultural heritage, manufacturing presence, and strategic location between Cambridge and Seaford create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum rather than a plateau in Maryland’s fifth-fastest appreciating market.
4. Crisfield
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 95.60%
- Home value in 2016: $75,323
- Home value in 2017: $77,868
- Home value in 2018: $78,814
- Home value in 2019: $84,125
- Home value in 2020: $90,353
- Home value in 2021: $107,056
- Home value in 2022: $125,612
- Home value in 2023: $128,121
- Home value in 2024: $147,063
- Home value in 2025: $147,331
Crisfield’s exceptional 95.6% appreciation has generated $72,008 in homeowner equity—remarkable percentage returns from Maryland’s most affordable market on this list. The extraordinary 63.1% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market recognition of this historic waterfront town amid shifting housing preferences. With average values still below $150,000, Crisfield offers an unmatched combination of waterfront access and investment-grade appreciation potential. The town’s Chesapeake Bay location, seafood industry heritage, and tourism potential create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Crisfield’s transition from overlooked to high-growth market status.
3. Sharptown
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 97.05%
- Home value in 2016: $108,469
- Home value in 2017: $102,827
- Home value in 2018: $108,585
- Home value in 2019: $117,694
- Home value in 2020: $131,709
- Home value in 2021: $152,467
- Home value in 2022: $172,021
- Home value in 2023: $184,687
- Home value in 2024: $199,623
- Home value in 2025: $213,734
Sharptown’s remarkable 97.0% appreciation has generated $105,265 in homeowner equity—exceptional wealth creation through strategic positioning in this overlooked Wicomico County town. The extraordinary 62.3% surge since 2020 demonstrates accelerating market momentum as buyers discover value in Maryland’s smaller communities. Despite posting Maryland’s third-highest appreciation rate, Sharptown remains highly affordable at $213,734, suggesting continued upside potential. The town’s Nanticoke River location, historic character, and strategic position between Salisbury and Delaware create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Sharptown’s transformation from undervalued to high-performance market status.
2. Marydel
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 97.95%
- Home value in 2016: $131,014
- Home value in 2017: $147,097
- Home value in 2018: $149,323
- Home value in 2019: $157,736
- Home value in 2020: $167,239
- Home value in 2021: $191,129
- Home value in 2022: $207,680
- Home value in 2023: $215,918
- Home value in 2024: $238,608
- Home value in 2025: $259,337
Marydel’s exceptional 97.9% appreciation has generated $128,323 in homeowner equity—remarkable wealth creation through strategic positioning in this Caroline County border town. The impressive early acceleration (20.2% in just two years) indicates Marydel’s early value recognition, while the continued 55.1% surge since 2020 confirms its enduring appeal. Despite posting Maryland’s second-highest appreciation rate, Marydel remains highly affordable at $259,337, suggesting continued upside potential. The town’s strategic location on the Delaware border, rural character, and relative proximity to employment centers create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory indicates building momentum in this previously overlooked market.
1. Swanton
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 100.31%
- Home value in 2016: $282,309
- Home value in 2017: $283,360
- Home value in 2018: $291,782
- Home value in 2019: $310,472
- Home value in 2020: $318,542
- Home value in 2021: $386,663
- Home value in 2022: $508,529
- Home value in 2023: $528,164
- Home value in 2024: $560,773
- Home value in 2025: $565,499
Swanton’s extraordinary 100.3% appreciation has transformed $282,309 investments into $565,499 assets, generating $283,190 in equity—remarkable wealth creation in Maryland’s top-performing market. The explosive 77.5% surge since 2020 demonstrates exceptional demand for this Garrett County destination amid shifting workplace flexibility and lifestyle preferences. Swanton’s lakefront setting near Deep Creek Lake combines recreational appeal with pandemic-era remote work advantages. The area’s four-season resort character, natural amenities, and proximity to both Pittsburgh and D.C. create sustainable demand fundamentals. Recent price trajectory confirms Swanton’s position as Maryland’s premier growth market for residential real estate investment.
