Pasadena

Pasadena is a small residential community in central Anne Arundel County near the Patuxent Research Refuge, offering a quiet suburban lifestyle.

Chesapeake Bay Waterfront Living

Pasadena is a census-designated place (CDP) in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Located on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay, Pasadena is renowned for its waterfront properties, boating access, and close-knit community atmosphere. The area offers a unique blend of suburban living with exceptional water access.

Quick Facts

Category Information
Population ~27,000 (2020 Census)
Area ~7.0 sq mi
ZIP Codes 21122
Area Codes 410, 443, 667
Founded Early 1900s
Elevation ~15 ft
Time Zone EST (UTC-5)

Coordinates: 39°06′45″N 76°39′30″W

About Pasadena

Community Overview

Pasadena offers:

  • Direct Chesapeake Bay waterfront access
  • 15-20 minutes to Annapolis
  • 30-40 minutes to Baltimore
  • 40-50 minutes to Washington, D.C.
  • 15 minutes to BWI Airport

The community is known for its boating culture, waterfront dining, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Google Maps: View Pasadena Location

History

Pasadena developed as a residential community in the early 20th century, with significant growth occurring after World War II. The area’s proximity to Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay made it attractive for families seeking waterfront living. The town was named after Pasadena, California, reflecting the optimism and sunshine associations of the era.

Waterfront Lifestyle

Pasadena’s defining feature is its extensive waterfront access:

  • Public Boat Launches: Multiple locations for easy water access
  • Marinas: Several private and public marinas
  • Fishing: Excellent pier and shore fishing
  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Calm bay waters, tidal creeks

The water is central to Pasadena’s identity and lifestyle.

Demographics

Population Statistics

According to U.S. Census Bureau data:

  • 2020 Population: ~27,000
  • Population Density: ~3,800/sq mi
  • Median Age: ~40 years (older than county average)
  • Households: ~10,500
  • Average Household Size: 2.5 persons

Source: U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts

Household Income

  • Median Household Income: ~$95,000 (2020-2024 ACS)
  • Per Capita Income: ~$50,000
  • Households with Children: ~30%

Economic Profile: Above average income levels, reflecting waterfront property values and professional residents

Education Levels

  • High School Graduates: 92%+
  • Bachelor’s Degree or Higher: 40%+
  • Retirees: Significant portion of population (55+)

Housing Market

Current Market Overview

Pasadena housing is premium-priced due to waterfront access and desirability.

Median Home Prices (2025):

  • Single Family Homes: $550,000 - $900,000
  • Waterfront Properties: $800,000 - $2,500,000+
  • Townhomes: $400,000 - $600,000
  • Condos: $300,000 - $500,000

Price per Square Foot:

  • Single Family: $280-$400/sq ft
  • Waterfront: $400-$700+/sq ft
  • Townhomes: $250-$350/sq ft

Neighborhood Areas

Waterfront Pasadena

  • Type: Premium waterfront properties
  • Housing: Waterfront homes, estates, luxury properties
  • Features: Private docks, bay views, deep water access
  • Median Price: $1,000,000 - $2,500,000+
  • Best For: Luxury buyers, boaters, retirees

Google Maps: Waterfront Pasadena

Central Pasadena

  • Type: Established suburban neighborhoods
  • Housing: Single-family homes, townhomes
  • Features: Tree-lined streets, community feel
  • Median Price: $550,000 - $750,000
  • Best For: Families, professionals

Google Maps: Central Pasadena

North Pasadena

  • Type: Residential area near Annapolis
  • Housing: Mix of single-family and townhomes
  • Features: Close to Annapolis amenities
  • Median Price: $500,000 - $700,000
  • Best For: Commuters, Annapolis workers

Google Maps: North Pasadena

Waterfront Property Features

Waterfront Homes Typically Include:

  • Private docks or boat slips
  • Bay or river views
  • Deeper water access (for larger boats)
  • Higher property taxes (based on value)
  • Flood insurance requirements (check FEMA zones)

Boat Access:

  • Public Launches: Free or low-cost access points
  • Marina Slips: Available for rent ($3-$5/foot/month)
  • Private Docks: Property owners with direct water access

Education

Schools (AACPS)

Pasadena residents attend Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS), which includes highly-rated schools.

Elementary Schools

Pasadena Elementary School:

  • Address: 402 Crain Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122
  • Grades: K-5
  • Rating: Above average to highly rated
  • Website: aacps.org/o/pasadena

Google Maps: Pasadena Elementary

Other Elementary Options:

  • Severna Park Elementary: Portions of Pasadena zoned to Severna Park schools (top-rated)
  • West County Elementary: Nearby option

Middle School

Severna Park Middle School:

  • Address: 201 West Street, Severna Park, MD 21146
  • Grades: 6-8
  • Rating: Highly rated
  • Note: Many Pasadena students attend this school

Google Maps: Severna Park Middle

High School

Severna Park High School:

  • Address: 400 College Avenue, Severna Park, MD 21146
  • Grades: 9-12
  • Rating: Among Maryland’s top schools (consistently top 10%)
  • Mascot: Rams
  • Website: aacounty.org/severnaparkhs

Google Maps: Severna Park High

School Performance: Pasadena residents benefit from Severna Park Schools’ excellent reputation, with high test scores and college readiness

Private Schools

Nearby Options:

  • Archbishop Spalding High School: 600 York Road, Severn, MD 21144 (Catholic)
  • St. Andrew’s Episcopal School: Annapolis area (K-8)

Transportation

Highways & Roads

Major Routes:

  • Ritchie Highway (US-50): Main east-west corridor
  • Crain Highway (MD-70): North-south route
  • Annapolis Road (MD-174): Access to Annapolis and Baltimore
  • MD-295 (Baltimore-Washington Parkway): 10-15 minutes away

Commute Times:

  • To Annapolis: 15-20 minutes
  • To Baltimore: 30-40 minutes
  • To DC: 45-60 minutes
  • To BWI Airport: 15-20 minutes

Public Transit

MTA Maryland Bus:

  • Route 3: Pasadena to Annapolis and Baltimore
  • Route 7: Local service within Anne Arundel County

Schedule Info: mta.maryland.gov

Boating Access

Public Boat Launches:

  • Pasadena Boat Landing: 2301 Severn Avenue (nearby)
  • Severna Park Boat Landing: 2301 Severn Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21401
  • Public Docks: Multiple no-wake zones, fishing piers

Marinas in Area:

  • Pasadena Yacht Club: Private membership
  • Severna Park Marina: Public and private slips available
  • Annapolis Marinas: Short distance from Pasadena

Boating Info: Maryland DNR Boating

Air Travel

BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport:

  • Address: 7000 Friendship Road, Baltimore, MD 21240
  • Distance from Pasadena: 15 miles (20-minute drive)
  • Services: Domestic and international flights

Website: bwiairport.com

Google Maps: BWI Airport to Pasadena

Shopping & Dining

Shopping

Pasadena Shopping:

  • Ritchie Highway Corridor: Grocery stores, pharmacies, services
  • Pasadena Town Center: Shopping plaza with retail and dining
  • Annapolis Road: Extensive shopping district nearby

Major Retailers:

  • Giant Food (Pasadena)
  • Target (nearby Glen Burnie)
  • Local boutiques and specialty shops

Dining

Restaurant Types:

  • Seafood restaurants (Chesapeake Bay focus)
  • Family-friendly casual dining
  • Waterfront dining options
  • National chains

Waterfront Dining: Several restaurants offer bay views and fresh seafood:

  • The Oyster House (Annapolis, nearby): Fresh oysters, waterfront seating
  • Local seafood shacks: Casual bayfront dining

Recreation & Water Activities

Boating & Sailing

Pasadena is ideal for:

  • Powerboating: Easy bay access
  • Sailing: Moderate distances to open bay
  • Fishing: Pier fishing, shore fishing, charters
  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Calm tidal creeks
  • Wakeboarding: Bay conditions suitable

Boat Rentals/Charter:

  • Charter Fishing: Multiple operators based in Annapolis
  • Sailboat Rentals: Available through Annapolis clubs
  • Kayak Rentals: Local shops offer rentals

Fishing Info: Maryland DNR Fishing

Parks & Facilities

Pasadena Community Park:

  • Address: 300 Crain Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122
  • Features: Playgrounds, sports fields, walking paths
  • Hours: Dawn to dusk

Google Maps: Pasadena Community Park

Nearby Parks:

  • Severna Park Community Park: 2451 Ritchie Highway, Severna Park, MD 21146
  • Browne’s Addition Park: Annapolis waterfront park

Beaches & Swimming

Nearby Beaches:

  • Sandy Point State Park: 5401 Ritchie Highway, Severn, MD 21144

Healthcare

Medical Facilities

CVPH Pasadena:

  • Address: 200 Crain Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122
  • Services: Primary care, urgent care, diagnostic services
  • Phone: (410) 923-2000
  • Website: cvph.org

Google Maps: CVPH Pasadena

Nearby Hospitals:

  • Anne Arundel Medical Center: 2000 International Drive, Annapolis, MD 21401 (15 minutes)

Emergency Services

  • Emergency: 911
  • Non-Emergency Police: (410) 268-2222 (Anne Arundel County)
  • Fire Department: Anne Arundel County Fire Services

Cost of Living

Overall Assessment

Pasadena’s cost of living is above county average due to waterfront premium:

Cost Breakdown:

  • Housing: 35% above national average (waterfront premium)
  • Utilities: 5% above average
  • Groceries: 8% above average
  • Transportation: 10% above average
  • Healthcare: 5% above average

Detailed Budget Guide: Cost of Living in Anne Arundel County

Waterfront Property Costs

Additional Costs for Waterfront:

  • Boat Dock Maintenance: $500-$2,000/year
  • Marina Slip Rental: $500-$1,500/month
  • Flood Insurance: $1,000-$5,000/year (depending on zone)
  • Higher Property Taxes: Based on waterfront valuation

Living in Pasadena

Quality of Life

Pros:

  • Exceptional waterfront access and boating lifestyle
  • Close proximity to Annapolis
  • Excellent schools (Severna Park system)
  • Strong sense of community
  • Beautiful bay sunsets and views
  • Family-friendly atmosphere

Considerations:

  • High housing costs (especially waterfront)
  • Summer tourist crowds
  • Waterfront property maintenance
  • Potential flooding in some areas
  • Limited historic character

Community Vibe

Pasadena attracts:

  • Boating and water sports enthusiasts
  • Families seeking good schools
  • Retirees wanting waterfront living
  • Professionals commuting to Annapolis/Baltimore
  • Those wanting suburban feel with water access

Local Amenities

  • Grocery: Giant Food, local markets
  • Shopping: Ritchie Highway corridor, nearby Annapolis
  • Restaurants: Seafood-focused, waterfront options
  • Healthcare: Primary care on-site
  • Recreation: Boating, fishing, nearby beaches
  • Community: Active waterfront and marina communities

Waterfront Living Tips

For New Waterfront Residents

Essential Considerations:

  1. Flood Zone: Check FEMA flood maps for your property
  2. Dock Rights: Verify water rights and dock permissions
  3. Insurance: Get flood and windstorm insurance quotes
  4. Boat Access: Confirm depth and navigation to your dock
  5. Maintenance: Budget for seasonal dock and seawall upkeep
  6. Noise: Consider proximity to boat traffic and marinas

Resources:

Contact & Resources

Essential Contacts

Anne Arundel County Government:

  • Phone: (410) 222-6100
  • Website: www.aacounty.org
  • Address: 100 County Center, Annapolis, MD 21401

Google Maps: AACounty Government Center

Verified Sources & References

  1. U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/pasadenacensusdesignatedplaceannearundelcountymaryland/PST045224
  2. Anne Arundel County Government: aacounty.org
  3. AACPS Schools: aacounty.org/aacps
  4. Maryland DNR Boating: maryland.gov/dnr/boating
  5. Maryland DNR Fishing: maryland.gov/dnr/fishing
  6. FEMA Flood Maps: msc.fema.gov
  7. CVPH Pasadena: cvph.org

This guide was last updated: May 2026. All information verified from official sources. Contact us with corrections or updates.