Waldorf, Maryland

Waldorf’s population is a little more than 22,000 people. The area is somewhat diverse, as about 61 percent of residents are white and 32 percent are black. The residents are mostly middle class, with only 4 percent of families below the poverty line. Waldorf consists of mostly families, and people who work in other places like D.C. There are also a number of military workers who live here.

Waldorf is not known for its vibrant social scene, but there are some pretty good options for residents. Most of the bars, clubs and restaurants will be big box, chain restaurants, which is typical of a suburb.

Famous Dave’s is a BBQ joint that is very popular with locals, and the recommendation is to come here ready to eat a big, sloppy meal. Famous Dave’s menu is a popular draw for the appetizers and the Georgia Pulled Pork. Curry of India is another popular spot for eating in Waldorf. According to locals, this restaurant is among the best for curry. Expect a laid-back quiet atmosphere when you visit Curry of India. Other than that, there are all the typical options like Panda Express, Denny’s, Bennigan’s, etc.

Considering the size of Waldorf, there are not many apartment complexes. Many people choose to rent houses instead of apartments. The rental prices are in line with the quality of living. There is some crime near the shopping mall, so avoid that area if you are considering renting in Waldorf.

Waldorf residents are extremely familiar with Route 301, which is lined with several miles of shopping and business. Route 301 connects with Route 5 for the commute to Washington, D.C. Transportation in Waldorf is centered around having a car. The public transportation is not very strong, though there are commuter buses that travel to Washington, D.C. and its suburbs. Commuting to Virginia might be a headache for those living in Waldorf, as it is reachable only by a two-lane bridge. Traffic is a valid concern for people living in Waldorf, as there is considerable congestion in the area. Parking is not so much of a concern, as the area is suburban with many parking lots, including those set aside specifically for commuters.

Look at the crime reports and talk to people in Waldorf about the areas you are considering. Crime varies throughout this area, and is getting worse in some places, while other areas are not as affected. Check the crime statistics and don't rely on the word of the landlord/property manager where you are considering renting.

Waldorf residents don’t have to travel all the way to Nationals Park to see a baseball game. The city is home to the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs, of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Waldorf also has a 24-hour indoor sports complex and ice rink. For more laid-back entertainment, there are a few major farms located here, and the area provides a great deal of scenic beauty.

White Plains is a nice area near Waldorf that is safe and has plenty of affordable housing. It would be wise to live near a major road if you are planning to commute. A commute to places like Alexandria or D.C. may take up to 90 minutes on some days, according to locals.

Waldorf has a few recommended veterinary centers. The Southern Maryland Veterinary Referral Center has specialty vets, a surgeon and an internal medicine doctor. There is also an emergency facility here. The St. Charles Animal Hospital offers similar services.

You can find all of your basics in Waldorf, but you’ll need a car to get to all of them. If that’s not a problem, head over to the St. Charles Towne Center, the area’s main shopping mall. In and around this area you will find banking, groceries, auto parts stores, and basically anything you need. The shopping mall is a big draw for Waldorf, and was recently remodeled.

The main grocery stores in Waldorf  are Safeway, Food Lion and Giant, and it also has the Shoppers Food Warehouse chain. The city has all the major banks like Bank of America and PNC, and also a few military-based banking organizations. The area also has a number of workout facilities, including Gold’s Gym, Waldorf Sport & Health Club, and Curves.

For the ladies, there are a few notable salons and spas in the area, including Galleria, which is on St. Patrick’s Drive. They do waxes and massages for a fairly decent price, compared with the rest of D.C.

The most common industries for male Waldorf residents are public administration, construction, professional services, food services, repair and maintenance, educational services and food and beverage stores. For females in Waldorf, the most common jobs are in public administration, health care, educational services, food services, finance and insurance, and religious organizations.

Private elementary/middle schools in Waldorf:

• ST PETERS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (Students: 509; Location: 3310 ST. PETER'S DRIVE; Grades: KG - 8)
• GOOD SHEPHERD PS K (Students: 181; Location: 305 EAST SMALLWOOD DRIVE; Grades: PK - KG)
• WALDORF BAPTIST PRE-SCHOOL AND (Students: 80; Location: 11725 BERRY RD.; Grades: PK - KG)
• FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF ST. CH (Students: 57; Location: 136 STODDERT AVE; Grades: PK - KG)
• BEDDOW SCHOOL INC THE (Students: 47; Location: 6008 HAMPSHIRE CIRCLE; Grades: PK - 3)
• WALDORF CHRISTIAN ACADEMY KIDDIE COLLEGE (Students: 29; Location: 4200 OLD WASHINGTON ROAD; Grades: PK - 1)
• KINDER CARE LEARNING CENTER (Students: 15; Location: 402 POST OFFICE ROAD; Grades: KG - KG)
• KINDERCARE LEARNING CENTER (Students: 8; Location: 2011 SMALLWOOD DR WEST; Grades: KG - KG)

The median value for a house/condo is Waldorf is about $377,000. Home slaes have dropped a bit in 2008, which is consistent with the nation.

Snowfall and overall climate is in line with similar East Coast communities. Tornado activity is 22 percent higher than the national average.