Calvert Hills vs. Berwyn: Which College Park Neighborhood Is Right for Your Family?
Choosing between Calvert Hills and Berwyn isn’t just a matter of location — it’s a lifestyle decision. Both are among the best College Park neighborhoods, offering distinct personalities, architectural styles, and amenities that appeal to different types of homebuyers.
Whether you’re a young family seeking a walkable community, a UMD faculty member looking for a peaceful retreat, or a professional balancing commute and comfort, this detailed comparison will help you decide which neighborhood best fits your goals.
I. Overview: Two Historic Corners of College Park
Situated south of the University of Maryland, Calvert Hills and Berwyn are two of College Park’s most established neighborhoods. Each offers unique charm — Calvert Hills with its leafy streets and classic architecture, and Berwyn with its accessible location and small-town warmth.
FeatureCalvert HillsBerwynVibeFamily-friendly, peacefulEclectic, livelyArchitectureEarly 20th-century Colonials, Craftsman homes1920s–1950s bungalows, cottagesProximity to UMD~1 mile south of campus~1.5 miles northeast of campusMedian Home Price (2025)$550,000–$650,000$440,000–$500,000Best ForFamilies & facultyFirst-time buyers & young professionals
Both neighborhoods provide strong community ties, proximity to UMD, and easy access to Route 1 and the Purple Line, making them ideal for those who want suburban comfort with city convenience.
II. Architecture and Character
Calvert Hills: Timeless Elegance and Architectural Consistency
Calvert Hills is defined by early- to mid-20th-century homes, including brick Colonials, Cape Cods, and Craftsman-style houses. Many properties have been carefully maintained or renovated to preserve historic details like dormer windows, slate roofs, and wood trim.
The neighborhood’s architecture reflects its roots as one of College Park’s first residential developments, offering larger lots and mature trees that provide both privacy and charm. Because it’s zoned for single-family use, the area retains a cohesive, tranquil atmosphere free from dense rental conversions.
Architectural Highlights:
Colonial Revivals with symmetrical facades
Classic bungalows with wide front porches
Restored Craftsman homes with custom woodwork
Berwyn: Eclectic, Historic, and Evolving
Berwyn’s homes tell a story of gradual growth. From Victorian-era houses to postwar cottages and 1940s bungalows, the neighborhood’s streets showcase architectural diversity. Renovations are common, giving many properties modern amenities without losing character.
Berwyn also boasts a handful of multi-unit conversions and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), offering flexibility for buyers looking to offset mortgage costs or house extended family.
Architectural Highlights:
Charming bungalows with original hardwoods
Compact single-family homes ideal for starter families
Unique color palettes and renovated exteriors
III. Community Feel and Lifestyle
Calvert Hills: Academic, Family-Oriented, and Close-Knit
Home to many UMD faculty and staff, Calvert Hills offers a stable, community-oriented environment. Neighbors know one another, and the Calvert Hills Citizens Association is active in local initiatives — from tree planting to traffic calming.
The neighborhood’s walkability, quiet streets, and strong school connections make it one of the best areas in Prince George’s County for raising children.
Lifestyle Perks:
Walkable to Calvert Park and Paint Branch Trail
Less than a mile to the College Park Metro Station
Family events and holiday parades organized by residents
Berwyn: Friendly, Walkable, and Convenient
Berwyn combines the accessibility of city living with a small-town spirit. Families and young professionals appreciate the proximity to shops, cafes, and local favorites like Vigilante Coffee, Smile Herb Shop, and Taqueria Habanero.
The Berwyn District Civic Association plays a big role in maintaining the area’s character and promoting community activities.
Lifestyle Perks:
Close to the Trolley Trail and Berwyn Park
Short bike ride to UMD and Greenbelt Metro
Community events like Berwyn Day and outdoor movie nights
IV. Amenities and Access
Both neighborhoods score high on convenience and accessibility, but the type of amenities differs slightly.
CategoryCalvert HillsBerwynTransit AccessWalkable to College Park Metro & Purple Line (Campus Drive Station)Near future Purple Line River Road StationRecreationCalvert Park, Lake Artemesia, Paint Branch TrailBerwyn Park, Trolley Trail, Indian Creek TrailRetail & DiningRiverdale Park Station (Whole Foods, Burtons Grill)Route 1 Corridor (local shops, cafes, groceries)Commute Time to D.C.~35 minutes via Metro~40 minutes via Greenbelt or College Park Metro
Family Takeaway:
If you prioritize quiet streets and nearby parks, Calvert Hills is ideal. If you want local dining and community energy, Berwyn wins for convenience.
V. Price Points and Real Estate Trends (2025)
Calvert Hills Market Snapshot
Median Sale Price: $600,000
Price Range: $500,000–$750,000
Appreciation (past 5 years): +42%
Rental Market: Limited due to single-family zoning; strong resale demand
Berwyn Market Snapshot
Median Sale Price: $465,000
Price Range: $380,000–$520,000
Appreciation (past 5 years): +36%
Rental Market: Moderate; popular with graduate students and UMD staff
Both areas are benefiting from the Purple Line transit development and Route 1 revitalization, which are expected to increase property values by another 15–20% over the next five years.
VI. The Verdict: Which Neighborhood Fits You Best?
Buyer TypeBest NeighborhoodFamilies with young childrenCalvert Hills – great schools, parks, and quiet streetsFirst-time homebuyersBerwyn – lower entry price and community amenitiesUMD faculty or staffCalvert Hills – walkable to campus, long-term stabilityCommuters to D.C.Either – both offer access to Metro and Purple LineBuyers seeking characterBerwyn – more eclectic architecture
In short:
Choose Calvert Hills if you want classic architecture, family-friendly calm, and long-term stability.
Choose Berwyn if you prefer walkable convenience, creative charm, and better affordability.
🔗 Continue Reading:
For an in-depth look at all College Park neighborhoods, property trends, and UMD’s influence on local values, explore the full guide:
👉 The Complete Guide to Real Estate in College Park, MD: Living, Investing, and Selling