Anne Arundel County: Suburb, County, or City?

Anne Arundel County: Suburb, County, or City?
If you're researching Anne Arundel County, Maryland, chances are you've come across this question:
“Is Anne Arundel a city, a county, or just a suburb?”



You're not alone—many people relocating to the area or exploring real estate listings wonder the same thing. Let’s break it down clearly so you understand what Anne Arundel really is—and why it matters if you're planning to move, buy a home, or invest in Maryland.

📍 First Things First: What Is Anne Arundel?
Anne Arundel is a county—not a city or a single suburb.

Located in central Maryland, Anne Arundel County borders the Chesapeake Bay and is home to over 588,000 residents (as of 2025). It's one of the most populous and historically significant counties in the state.



🏙️ Key Cities & Towns Within Anne Arundel County

Anne Arundel isn’t defined by one city. Instead, it’s made up of multiple incorporated cities, towns, and unincorporated communities, including:

• Annapolis – The state capital of Maryland and the most well-known city in the county
• Glen Burnie – A major suburb with retail, schools, and commuter access
• Pasadena – Popular for suburban and waterfront living
• Severna Park – Family-friendly with top-rated schools
• Crofton, Odenton, Edgewater, and more

📌 Fun fact: Annapolis is not only the capital of Maryland, but also the county seat of Anne Arundel County.

🏘️ So... Is It a Suburb?
Yes—and no.

Anne Arundel County contains many suburbs, particularly of Baltimore and Washington, D.C. Cities like Odenton and Glen Burnie are classic suburban commuter towns. However, the county also includes rural areas, waterfront communities, and small towns—so it's more than just "suburban."

In summary:

• Not a city – There is no “City of Anne Arundel”
• A full county – With its own government, services, and school system
• Includes suburbs – But also urban, rural, and coastal areas

🌍 Why It Matters When You’re Moving or Buying a Home
Understanding this structure helps when:

• Searching for homes – You’ll need to look by city or ZIP code, not “Anne Arundel” alone.
• Understanding school districts – These are managed at the county level through Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS).
• Paying taxes – Your property taxes and services are based on county governance.
• Choosing a lifestyle – Whether you want a waterfront escape, suburban neighborhood, or downtown city vibe—Anne Arundel has it all.

🗺️ Quick Snapshot of What Anne Arundel County Includes
Area  -  Type  -  Highlights

• Annapolis  - Capital City  -  History, Naval Academy, walkable downtown
• Glen Burnie  -  Suburban Hub  -  Shopping, I-695 access
• Pasadena  -  Suburban/Waterfront  -  Great schools, boating, family-friendly
• Severna Park  -  Suburb  -  Excellent schools, parks, sports leagues
• Odenton  -  Transit-Oriented  -  MARC train, near Fort Meade/NSA
• Edgewater  -  Rural/Suburban  -  Quiet living, waterfront trails

🧠 Final Thoughts: What You Really Need to Know
Anne Arundel County is not just a place—it’s a network of diverse communities.
Whether you’re buying a home, investing in property, or relocating, it’s important to search and compare individual cities and towns within the county to find your best fit.

🏠 Ready to Explore Anne Arundel?

👉📩 Contact The Shawn Martin Group today by calling 410-729-7700 for personalized guidance.