Bethesda vs. Laurel vs. Sliver Springs (Baltimore, Silver Spring: real estate, homes, schools)

[mom2max]

My husband might be offered a job in Laurel. We have one son that is almost 6. Ideally we'd like to live in Bethesda, as the area seems cool and the schools seem good. Plus, it is closer to the DC area. Can anyone tell me what they think of this area?

[mamaecho]

It's very expensive.That's about all I know

[Mrs. 14th & You]

If you can afford it, Bethesda is by far the highest regarded suburb that you listed.

[nurider2002]

Bethesda is a great area, safe, well-maintained, close to d.c., with plenty of shopping, parks, recreation close by. Bethesda is very expensive. Silver Spring was in decline for years but has been on the upswing for the past 10 years; new shopping and generally sprucing up the area. Homes in Silver Spring are mostly older, smaller homes or "chopped up" floor plans and pricy. Again, not far from d.c. so you are playing for location. I have friends who love it there; I personally don't see the appeal; very congested, traffic is bad, homes are expensive for what you get. Laurel is a completely different vibe--you are offically in suburbia and a good deal of Laurel is not pleasing to the eye. Rt. 1 which runs through it is in need of a major revitalization--still a lot of old delapidated buildings, no real flow. Laurel does have nice areas though, I lived in Savage (north end of Laurel) in the late 90's and enjoyed it. Still only 20 minutes to d.c., some decent restaurants close by, the park at Savage Mill was nice for dog walking, etc. But, it's a very different feel from Silver Spring and, worlds apart from Bethesda. Laurel is convenient to both Baltimore and d.c. which was nice. If money is not an issue, Bethesda would be my choice; between Silver Spring and Laurel, it depends on your lifestyle but, with regard to real estate, you have more options in Laurel. good luck

[mom2max]

Thanks for all of this info. We used to live in Alexandria, VA and would love to move back to that area. Unfortunately, the commute would be a nightmare. I guess, if everything works out, Bethesda is the best bet. Thanks, again.