Potomac

Potomac is the Bethesda area's most affluent community, characterized by vast lots, houses that run the gamut from spacious to gargantuan, rolling fields with split-level fences, and the genteel, outdoorsy feel of horse country. Cars are a must, but the schools in this secluded community are top-notch, the parks and preserves are abundant, and the shops in Potomac Village bustle with customers. On the down side: the cost of housing means Potomac is off limits to many—in 2015, the average sales price in Potomac's 20854 ZIP code was about $1.1 million. And all that seclusion can translate into long commutes for workers. But residents don't need to drive to Rockville or Bethesda if they're looking for a decent meal. Recent years have seen the arrival in Potomac Village of some well-regarded eateries and diners can find plenty to choose at Park Potomac, a mixed-use development off I-270.

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AVENEL
The majority of homes were built in the 1980s, making Avenel—nearly 900 luxury homes and townhomes—one of the newest communities in Potomac and Bethesda. It's also one of the most exclusive (and expensive) neighborhoods in the county. Avenel is more than 1,000 acres altogether, with yards ranging from under a half-acre to 2 acres. The properties surround the Avenel Country Club, and ball fields, biking trails, children's playgrounds and wooded trails abound. There is no easy Metro access available, but Avenel is convenient to the Beltway.

FALCONHURST
Potomac is known for its large lots and luxury homes, and this neighborhood east of River and Falls roads epitomizes both. The main drag of this tony subdivision is Bentcross Drive, home to several prominent CEOs, professional athletes and other public figures. The architectural styles of Falconhurst's nearly 200 homes vary, but grand columns, large swimming pools and circular driveways abound.

FOX HILLS
What used to be rolling Potomac farmland was transformed in 1967 by Pulte Homes into Fox Hills, a thriving Washington, D.C., suburb. Today, the neighborhood boasts more than 500 homes, several schools and its own incorporated Fox Hills Civic Association. The neighborhood runs along Gainsborough Road between Bells Mill Road and Tuckerman Lane, and is known for being the "best of both worlds" because it has easy access to highways and is convenient to urban amenities, but retains some of its original rural charm. The homes are mostly colonials, with some ramblers and split-levels.

MCAULEY PARK
Travel east on Democracy Boulevard, past Potomac Village on your left and sprawling landscapes on your right, and you've reached McAuley Park. Many of this neighborhood's spacious, colonial-style homes feature large front porches, although other styles, including ramblers, can be found. Horse stables can be seen from the road, but it isn't as rural as it appears. McAuley Park is still within a 15-minute drive from Westfield Montgomery mall and only minutes from Potomac Village. This neighborhood is known for the peace and quiet it offers its residents.

PALATINE
Palatine, a sprawling, wooded neighborhood with 2-acre lots off Glen and Piney Meetinghouse roads in Potomac, features custom-built homes, many with arched entryways, manicured lawns and long, winding driveways. No two houses are the same; the average house is 10,000 square feet. Residents enjoy a rural setting that's only minutes away from Potomac Village.

POTOMAC VILLAGE
Potomac Village is made up of fewer than 250 homes in the center of town, within walking distance of restaurants, stores and cafes, providing comfort and convenience off Falls Road. Quick access is available both to shopping and recreation, and the nearby C&O Canal National Historical Park.

RIVER FALLS
River Falls, a popular, family-friendly Potomac neighborhood, has swim and tennis clubs, three separate civic associations and excellent public schools, as well as stately homes. With a mix of older homes as well as modern styles, the neighborhood is located off MacArthur Boulevard and Brickyard Road. It's a short walk to the C&O Canal, which offers miles of hiking.

POTOMAC FALLS
C&O Canal National Historical Park serves as the western boundary for this neighborhood of more than 260 homes, which sit on 2- to 4-acre lots. Some lots are separated by small lakes or ponds, but residents of Potomac Falls say they value the sense of community among neighbors as much as the open space. The Old Angler's Inn serves as a meeting place for regular get-togethers, and residents gather in various homes for informal coffee klatches.


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