Moving to Maryland (Lexington Park, California, Leonardtown: renting, safe area, theater)

[mum1]

We are moving from UK to Maryland in the summer and will be renting. Our work will be at Pax. We have viewed property online but not sure on where to live. We have come across a few desireable properties in lexington but have heard through the grapevine to stay away from Lexington-Why? We are looking for a safe area to raise a family and go walking to parks and shops-if possible which i believe California and Leonardtown are known for. It appears that you get more for your money property wise in Lexington, should that send alarm bells ringing. Also is there much to do for toddlers?

[slowlane]

Lexington Park is a city founded suddenly during World War 2, when the military base was established. Parts of it are quite run-down and shabby, especially the area along Great Mills Road. Great Mills High School which serves the areas near the Base, is the lowest-rated of the 4 public high schools in St. Mary's County, and has the highest percentage of minority races. However, on the other hand by living near the Base in California or Lexington Park, you also benefit from the convenience of more large stores and large restaurants and services, including a large library and a live community theater. Many military families prefer Leonardtown, or alternatively Calvert County across the River (Solomons, Lusby, or Chesapeake Ranch Estates) accessed by a mile-long, high bridge. Solomons is a very charming tourist waterfront village with many seafood restaurants/ bars and a water-life museum. Leonardtown is a smaller town than Lexington Park-- however because it's the central "County seat" it has a hospital as well as a community College (serving the entire County) and the college will open 2 new swimming pools by next Fall for public use. It also has a country club and an excellent new supermarket and the charm of a traditional small-town county seat, including THREE antique car shows each year - also some Mennonite/ Amish (old fashioned farm people who ride in buggies) who sell produce, plants and crafts, as well as a Catholic high school. Leonardtown high school is well- rated and attractive, but a bit overcrowded (1900 students). The schools in Calvert County are also very highly rated.

[slowlane]

You can find lots of information here about living in the Pax River Base area: Southern Maryland Online™ - Your on-line community for Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary's Counties.™