Relocating to Baltimore; looking for family friendly neighborhood close to JHU Homewood. (University Park: apartments)

[BaltimoreBound]

My husband and I are relocating to Baltimore for a position at JHU. We have 2 small children and are looking to move to a neighborhood within safe bikable distance to Homewood that is also family friendly. We have been searching on Craigslist for housing, but are not that familiar with the areas around JHU. We are contemplating moving to an apt in Medfield. Any tips on the neighborhood? Any other suggested areas?

Thanks!

[medfieldbum]

You're in luck, as I live in Medfield, and have for the last couple of years. Before that (13 years), my wife and I lived in the Roland Park area known as Tuxedo Park by the locals. And I'm very familiar with the JHU area. The Roland Park/Tuxedo Park areas are a lot more bikable, but Medfield is close.
You didn't say how old your kids are, but Roland Park has among the best elementary and middle schools in the city; Medfield is ok for elementary. However, you didn't say what your price range is for an apartment, or which one you're considering as there are several. Or what your other interests/dislikes are.

Medfield is mostly upper working class, and middle class working people with a smattering of professionals, mostly young, unmarried professionals, firefighters, and skilled tradesmen. Though street crime is low, there are some dingbats, poor working folks, and some nonworking lowlifes on the periphery.

We have some Hopkins people in the apartments near us, but one graduate student just moved out; he had some issues. If you direct message me, I'd be happy to answer any questions you have. Do you know what apartments you're considering renting from? And have you already sent a deposit?

Many folks working at JHU also rent in apartments in the area north of University Parkway, but there aren't many families there--and you're not in the Roland Park School district. Hampden is also very walkable to the Homewood campus, but not recommended if your children are of school age. (And it's just a short distance from the world-class Baltimore Museum of Art.) In short, you probably should also look in Roland Park/Tuxedo Park for a more family friendly professional environment a short distance from JHU. (Though we'd love to have you as neighbors!) Any case, welcome to Baltimore!

[chippeebobippee]

What is your price range and how far are you willing to bike? There are quite a few good spots around and it is wise to rent before buying in this market. Welcome to Charm City!

[BaltimoreBound]

Thanks for the input. We have a very active 3 year old and a 2 month old. We have looked into a couple of the high rise apt complexes off of University Pky, but were hoping to avoid a high rise if possible due to the limited room for our son to play, etc. We are moving from Madison, WI and have enjoyed being able to walk/bike without safety concerns.

The apt we are looking at in Medfield is actually a privately owned townhouse on Redfern. Safe? Family friendly? We are also keeping our eyes open for things in Roland Park. My husband is hoping to bike to work as he does here in WI, 2-4 miles. We are hoping to stay within the 1400-1500 price range for a 3 bedroom or larger 2-bedroom, but safety and family friendly are our biggest priorities. The position at JHU is short-term (2 years or so), so renting seems to be the best option.

Thanks again for your input. Any other advise would be great!

[BaltimoreBound]

testing quick reply option...

[rudy_d]

I think Wyman Park, Hampden, or Medfield would be good choices. I could be wrong, but I don't think you'll find anything in Roland Park in your price range that's not in an apartment building. The neighborhood is mostly old Victorian mansions.

[chippeebobippee]

I agree with Rudy on the Roland Park explanation. Closely monitor your streets/neighborhoods. If you PM me I 'd be happy to send a few circulars for you so you can find a spot.