Located in Montgomery County, Maryland, Takoma Park is often confused with the community of Takoma in Washington, DC. The two suburbs share a border, a business district, a Metro station, and even a Fourth of July parade. Both Takomas were originally part of a single development founded in 1883 as Takoma Park although they later separated with Takoma Park incorporated under the state of Maryland in 1890.
The name “Takoma” comes from an indigenous word meaning “lifted up” or “near heaven” and alludes to the area’s desirable elevation 350 feet higher than DC. True to its name, Takoma Park is a leafy suburb home to a number of healthy, mature trees that help lower the temperatures on hot summer days. The area is also known as Azalea City because of the botanical work of one of its early leading citizens. Azaleas continue to prevail throughout the town and its gardens. Read more about Takoma Park real estate.
Takoma Park boasts stately Victorians but the housing stock is diverse ranging from 1920s bungalows to late 19th-century neo-gothic farmhouses to more contemporary multi-family apartment complexes. Other community landmarks include the library; a Sunday farmer’s market in the business district; and the paved Sligo Creek Stream Valley trail offering a respite for nature lovers. Residents are attracted by the area’s convenience to DC and other points in Maryland, the good schools and relative affordability compared to other Maryland suburbs.
Takoma Park is served by the Takoma Stop on the Red Line located on the DC/Maryland state line at Eastern Avenue. It is bounded by Silver Spring, Maryland, to the northwest and north; Langley Park, Maryland, to the northeast; and Eastern Avenue to the southwest; and New Hampshire Avenue to the southeast.
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