Moving to Rockville

Rockville, Maryland, is strategically located just 12 miles (19km) northwest of Washington, DC, making it an appealing choice for those who desire proximity to the country’s capital without the associated high cost of living. Residents enjoy a blend of economic and cultural benefits from Washington, DC, while relishing a more laid-back suburban lifestyle.

Rockville’s unique character is shaped by its diverse and educated population. Close to 40 percent of residents are expats, contributing to vibrant cultural events. With more than 60 percent of the population holding at least a bachelor’s degree, the city boasts a robust arts and culture scene supported by community and professional organisations.

Cost of living in Rockville

Housing in Rockville is notably pricier than the national average, although homes are more affordable than those in Washington, DC. If you plan to buy, be prepared for a market where property prices are much higher than expected elsewhere in the country. Renting is similarly steep.

Everyday essentials in Rockville come at a premium. Groceries are about 9 percent higher than the national average, so your food budget will need a bit of stretching. Conversely, healthcare costs are surprisingly lower by about 15 percent, offering some relief. Transport costs are slightly above average, reflecting the general costlier lifestyle of the area.

Getting around in Rockville

Rockville offers convenient public transport options, including two Metrorail stations on the Red Line, ensuring easy access to Washington, DC. Extensive bus routes and commuter options like the MARC train and Washington Metrobus system make getting around without a car feasible and efficient. For trips to Washington, DC, residents can rely on the Metrorail. Bus routes, including the developing Bus Rapid Transit system, offer additional commuter options, making travel to and from the capital straightforward.

Traffic conditions in Rockville are moderate, although peak hours during rush hour can see increased congestion, especially near major highways and DC. 

The city’s layout in some areas favours car travel, but efforts are underway to improve facilities for pedestrians and cyclists. Rockville is enhancing its pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure through plans like the Bikeway Master Plan and Sidewalk Prioritization Policy.

Useful links

• Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
• Rockville Transportation
• MARC Train Service
• Montgomery County Department of Transportation

Healthcare in Rockville

Rockville boasts top-notch healthcare facilities, with Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center leading the pack. Located just a short drive from the city centre, this hospital is renowned for its excellence in bariatric surgery and other medical specialities. Nearby, Suburban Hospital in Bethesda and Holy Cross Germantown Hospital also offer award-winning services, providing residents with high-quality medical options.

Health insurance coverage in Rockville includes federal programmes like Medicare and Medicaid, which cater to seniors, low-income individuals, and those with specific disabilities. Private insurance providers offer various plans, ensuring residents have ample choices for their healthcare needs. For more information, read our guide to Understanding Health Insurance in the USA.

Useful links

• Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center
• Suburban Hospital
• Holy Cross Germantown Hospital

Schools in Rockville

Rockville is served by Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), the largest district in the area, catering to over 160,000 students. MCPS boasts top-rated schools like Candlewood Elementary, Cashell Elementary, and Fallsmead Elementary, which are known for their academic excellence and diverse programmes. 

The city offers diverse educational pathways, with over 30 private schools serving nearly 5,000 students. Leading the pack are Charles E Smith Jewish Day School and Georgetown Preparatory School. Green Acres School and Christ Episcopal School provide whole-child education, emphasising hands-on learning and community involvement. These institutions offer focused curricula and smaller class sizes.

Rockville benefits from its proximity to Washington, DC, which hosts international schools like Washington International School and the British School of Washington, with curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB).

Useful links

• Montgomery County Public Schools

Weather in Rockville

Rockville, MD, enjoys a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. Its elevation and location help moderate temperatures and precipitation. Average annual temperatures hover around 60°F (16°C), making it a pleasant place to live. Summers have mild highs at around 65°F (18.5°C), while winters have mild lows of 52°F (11°C).

Precipitation in Rockville is pretty consistent, with an annual average of about 43 inches (1,092mm). August tends to be the wettest month, while January is the driest.

Useful links

• TripReport: Climate and Weather in Maryland

Working in Rockville

Rockville is a significant hub for the biotech and life sciences industries, with over 170 companies in the I-270 ‘DNA Alley’. This sector employs a substantial number of professionals, bolstered by the presence of federal government agencies. Information technology is another critical industry, with the I-270 Technology Corridor housing over 200 IT companies.

Rockville’s work culture is influenced by its diverse industries, particularly professional, scientific, and technical services. With a highly educated workforce, the city fosters innovation and professional development. Commuting in Rockville offers various options, whether you prefer driving, taking the Metrorail, or biking. Many residents commute to Washington, DC, benefiting from a short drive or a 40-minute ride on the Red Line.

Useful links

• Rockville Economic Development

Accommodation in Rockville

Rockville offers a variety of rental properties, including single-family houses, apartments, condos, and rooms for rent. This range of options makes finding a home that fits your needs and budget easier. Rental prices in Rockville are generally more affordable than in Washington, DC, making it an attractive choice for those looking to save on housing costs. Finding and securing a rental in Rockville involves searching on popular rental listing sites like Redfin, Trulia, and Zumper.

King Farm is a master-planned community featuring a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condos. Highly walkable with parks, trails, and shopping centres, it also offers a free shuttle service to the Shady Grove Metro Station, making it ideal for commuters.

Fallsgrove, another master-planned community, is known for its beautiful landscaping and variety of housing options. The Fallsgrove Village Center provides ample shopping, dining, and entertainment, adding to the appeal of this well-maintained area.

The historic West End neighbourhood boasts tree-lined streets and diverse architectural styles. With a strong sense of community and numerous local events, it’s a charming area within walking distance of Rockville Town Centre.

Twinbrook is a family-friendly neighbourhood offering single-family homes and townhouses. Several parks, including the Twinbrook Community Recreation Centre, and its own Metro station make it convenient for families and commuters alike.

Woodley Gardens is a well-established neighbourhood with a mix of housing types and plenty of green spaces. Residents enjoy the community swimming pool and the Woodley Gardens Shopping Centre, making it a popular choice.

Useful links

• Redfin: Rockville Rentals
• Trulia: Rockville Rentals
• Zumper: Rockville Rentals

Lifestyle in Rockville

With roots stretching back to the 18th century, Rockville has evolved from a small farming community to a bustling city. Its rapid growth in the 19th and 20th centuries, bolstered by the railroad and proximity to DC, has led to a city rich in history and diversity. This historical depth is evident in preserved landmarks and historic buildings seamlessly integrated into modern developments.

For shopping enthusiasts, Rockville Pike is a major area featuring numerous boutiques, sprawling plazas, and speciality food purveyors. Notable centres include Congressional Plaza and Pike & Rose, where you can find a mix of dining, shopping and entertainment options. Rockville Town Square is another vibrant spot that hosts public events and offers diverse retail shops.

Rockville's dining scene is incredibly diverse, offering plenty of options, including Asian, Filipino, Thai, Japanese, and Korean BBQ. Popular dining areas like Rockville Town Square and Pike & Rose provide a range of culinary delights, from fast food to fine dining, ensuring something for everyone.

Rockville has numerous parks and outdoor attractions, such as Rock Creek Regional Park and Lake Needwood, which are ideal for hiking, biking, and boating. For those interested in history and culture, the historic district and Rockville Civic Center Park offer a mix of historic sites and nature trails.

The city also hosts unique events like the Rockville Hometown Holidays, a Memorial Day weekend celebration with live music and family-friendly activities. The Rockville Farmers Market, open from May to November, is great for fresh produce and local products. The Rockville Arts Festival also showcases local artists and their work each year.

Rockville doesn't have a dedicated nightlife district, but Rockville Town Center offers a few bars and restaurants for evening socialising. Other bars and restaurants are scattered throughout the city. For a more vibrant nightlife scene, residents often head to nearby Silver Spring, Bethesda or Washington, DC, which boast a broader variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Rockville is home to numerous sports and recreational activities. The Michael & Son Sports Arena hosts indoor sports like soccer, futsal, volleyball and basketball. Residents support professional teams like the Baltimore Ravens and Washington Commanders. Local teams, such as the Rockville Victors basketball team, provide additional sports entertainment.