Mount Vernon is a lively neighborhood in Baltimore with some of the best conveniences of urban living.
The centerpiece of the neighborhood is the original Washington Monument. Built in 1815, the monument honors the first president of the United States. Much of the area’s architecture has been beautifully restored, making it one of Baltimore’s most coveted neighborhoods.
Housing is primarily Victorian rowhouses and high-rise apartment buildings. This article will tell you all you need to know about Mount Vernon.
Where is Mount Vernon in Baltimore?
Mount Vernon is immediately north of downtown Baltimore about a half a mile from the Inner Harbor. Its boundaries are Hamilton Street to the South, Howard Street to the West, Mount Royal Avenue to the North and Guilford Avenue to the East.
The historic district runs along Charles Street and the blocks around the Washington Monument. ZIP codes for Mount Vernon include 21201 and 21202.
Source: Rent.
The Mount Vernon neighborhood in Baltimore is a diverse residential area. It also features some of the city’s best shopping, dining, and arts and entertainment venues.
Mount Vernon is home to the Walters Art Museum, the Enoch Pratt Free Library, Maryland Historical Society and several performing arts venues and cultural institutions.
- Studio average rent: $1,175
- One-bedroom average rent: $1,416
- Two-bedroom average rent: $1,815
- Walk score: 92.63
- Bike score: 79.13
- Transit score: 78.52
Living in Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon is one of Baltimore’s most revered neighborhoods. Residents enjoy the lovely architecture and access to cultural amenities and recreational opportunities. Six parks provide plenty of outdoor gathering spaces.
Demographics
According to City-Data, the population in the Mount Vernon area in 2016-2017 was 4,751 people with a median household income of $46,519. The median age was 32. The percentage of married-couple families with children was 68 percent.
Education
Mount Vernon, served by the Baltimore City Public School System, includes the Baltimore School for the Arts and the Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women.
The Wilkes School is an independent Episcopal school affiliated with Grace and St. Peter’s Church.
Peabody Institute, Maryland Institute College of Art and the University of Baltimore also have campuses here.
Safety
Mount Vernon is a relatively safe neighborhood in Baltimore. With many popular attractions, there are usually plenty of people around to keep a watchful eye out for disturbances. As in any urban area, you should always stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night.
Entertainment
Mount Vernon is home to major cultural institutions. They include the Walters Art Museum, the Peabody Conservatory, Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall, Lyric Opera House, Center Stage and the Eubie Blake National Jazz Institute.
Also known for its restaurants, bars and nightlife, Mount Vernon is one of the top entertainment districts in Baltimore.
Transportation
Mount Vernon is well-served by public transit. The Purple Line of the Charm City Circulator runs along Charles Street northbound and on St. Paul Street southbound. The Light Rail line and the Metro Subway both have stations within easy walking distance of the neighborhood. Penn Station is one block to the north of Mount Royal Avenue and is served by Amtrak and MARC commuter rail.
History
Located close to downtown, Mount Vernon and the Charles Street corridor were one of the earliest populated areas in Baltimore.
The name of the neighborhood derives from the estate of George Washington in Northern Virginia. Mount Vernon Square, the site of the 1829 monument honoring Washington, has been redesigned several times throughout its history.
In 1875-76, the city hired Frederick Law Olmsted’s Boston firm to redesign the landscape.
The historic architecture of the neighborhood has been well-maintained. In 1971, the area around the Washington Monument became a National Historic Landmark District.
10 things to do in Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon is a prime neighborhood in Baltimore with many fun things to see and do.
- Enjoy dining at diverse restaurants, including Afghani, Spanish and New American cuisine.
- Check out the nightlife scene in the bars, taprooms and dance clubs.
- Shop for some unique gifts at Mount Vernon’s boutiques along Charles Street.
- Attend a live performance at one of the major venues in the neighborhood.
- Walk around Mount Vernon Square and get an up-close view of the Washington Monument.
- View the 19th-century paintings at the Walters Art Gallery.
- Visit the Enoch Pratt Free Library and enjoy the distinctive architecture of the historic building.
- Stroll through Mount Vernon’s six parks and enjoy the fresh air and natural environment.
- On the first Sunday of the month, take a cultural history tour with the Mount Vernon Place Conservancy.
- Walk a half-mile to the Inner Harbor to see more of Baltimore’s popular attractions.
Finding an apartment in Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Baltimore. It offers an appealing mix of historic architecture, diverse restaurants and entertainment options. The average rent in Mount Vernon is around $2,300 for a two-bedroom apartment.
Whether you’re a student, recent grad, young family or retiree, looking for an apartment or more permanent home, this prime neighborhood has something for everyone. Check out these apartments and find your perfect home in Mount Vernon.
