Ocean City Photo

West Ocean City, Ocean City,MD

Neighborhood Data
Proximitii Score score
? /100
Amenities Score Amenities Score Locked
Transit Score Transit & Commute Score Locked
Schools Score Schools Score Locked
Health & Safety Score Health & Safety Score Locked
City Crime Score Crime (City) Score Locked
Location Crime Score Crime (Location) Score Locked
Economy Score Economy Score Locked
Housing Score Housing Score Locked

For anyone considering a move to West Ocean City, this charming neighborhood offers a perfect blend of coastal living and convenient amenities. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic views, West Ocean City is a great choice for families, retirees, and young professionals alike. Residents here enjoy easy access to beautiful waterfront parks, marinas, and a variety of local shops and eateries that give the community a welcoming vibe. Whether you’re into boating, fishing, or just soaking up the sun, this area provides plenty of opportunities to embrace the outdoor lifestyle.

One of the standout attractions in West Ocean City is the bustling harbor area, which serves as a hub for water-based recreation. The neighborhood boasts several boat ramps and charter services, making it a hotspot for fishing enthusiasts and those who love exploring the Chesapeake Bay. Additionally, you’ll find a variety of seafood restaurants that serve fresh catches daily, along with casual dining options and boutique shops that add a unique charm to the neighborhood. For families, the nearby parks and walking trails offer safe, scenic spots for kids to play and for neighbors to gather.

While West Ocean City has its own peaceful pace, it’s also conveniently located just a short drive northwest of Downtown Ocean City. This means you can easily enjoy the lively boardwalk, entertainment venues, and shopping districts without sacrificing the tranquility of your home environment. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading out for a night on the town, or just running errands, the proximity to downtown ensures you’re never far from the action. All in all, West Ocean City strikes a wonderful balance between community charm and accessibility, making it a fantastic place to call home.

Community Snapshot

Population 2,368
Density (People/sqml.) 565
Median Age 48.6
Married Couples
50%
50% of the population of West Ocean City aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
18%
18% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In West Ocean City, 18% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 18% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

West Ocean City neighborhood age breakdown chart

West Ocean City demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 2,368 residents, West Ocean City is notably smaller than many other Ocean City neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 565 people per square mile, West Ocean City offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Ocean City neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 49, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in West Ocean City

Crime Safety Index Score Locked 1 2 3 4 5

 

Total Crime Incidents
Try for free within 1 mile
Score Locked per 100k people

Types of Crime

West Ocean City neighborhood age breakdown chart

West Ocean City Crime Map

The West Ocean City crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing

? /10
Home Price $359,660
Median Rent $1,525
People/Household 2.2

Home Price Breakdown

West Ocean City neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 25% Own 75%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 57% After 2010 43%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In West Ocean City, the median home price is about $359,660, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in West Ocean City have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

With an average rent price of $1,525, rental rates in West Ocean City are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Rise Up Coffee
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Starbucks
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Baja Amusements
Theme Park
min.
min.
Flagship Premium Cinemas
Cinema
min.
min.

Food & Drink

West-O Bottle Shop and Bar
Alcohol
min.
min.
Five Guys
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Food Lion
Grocery Store
min.
min.
Wine'ing Butcher
Butcher
min.
min.

Parks

Playground
Playground
min.
min.
Playground
Playground
min.
min.

Shops

Studio 6
Beauty
min.
min.
Marshalls
Department Store
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

3rd St
Bus Stop
min.
min.
7th St
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

Bus Station
Bus Station
min.
min.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Rite Aid
Pharmacy
min.
min.
CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
min.

Health Care

West Ocean City Injury & Illness Center
Doctor
min.
min.
Atlantic General Pediatrics
Doctor
min.
min.

Safety

Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Station 5
Fire Station
min.
min.
Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Station 2
Fire Station
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Ocean City Elementary
12828 Center Dr, Ocean City, MD
Elementary School PK - 4 School Score
Stephen Decatur Middle
9815 Seahawk Rd, Berlin, MD
Elementary School 7 - 8 School Score
Stephen Decatur High
9913 Seahawk Rd, Berlin, MD
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Seaside Christian Academy
12637A Ocean Gtwy, Ocean City, MD
High School PK - 9 School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like West Ocean City. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in West Ocean City can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.

Economy

? /10
Income Per Capita $72,883
Household Income $90,197
Unemployment 6.7%

Income Breakdown

West Ocean City Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

Industry Employed
Agriculture & Mining Unlock
Construction Unlock
Manufacturing Unlock
Wholesale & Retail Unlock
Transportation & Warehousing Unlock
Information Unlock
Finance & Insurance Unlock

The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In West Ocean City, median household incomes average $90,197, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In West Ocean City, the unemployment rate is 7%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

West Ocean City features a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. Many properties boast waterfront views, especially those near the bayside canals. You'll find a blend of vacation homes, rental properties, and year-round residences, with styles ranging from modern beach cottages to traditional coastal designs.

How far is Downtown?

Downtown Ocean City is approximately 5 to 7 miles east of West Ocean City. Depending on traffic, it typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes by car to reach the bustling boardwalk area filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues such as the Ocean City Pier and Trimper’s Rides.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, West Ocean City is conveniently located near major highways including U.S. Route 50, which provides direct access to the area and connects to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge leading to the western parts of Maryland. Additionally, the Ocean City Transportation (OCT) bus system services West Ocean City, offering routes that connect residents and visitors to downtown Ocean City and nearby attractions.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
Unlock to see 82 37 88 42 71 32 68 79
Unlock to see 75 45 86 33 75 35 90 56
Unlock to see 68 74 69 31 81 54 42 57
West Ocean City Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe
Unlock to see 49 77 87 37 49 83 65 86
Unlock to see 36 62 56 89 36 79 42 40
Unlock to see 25 42 62 51 83 68 63 90

Other Neighborhoods in Ocean City, MD