This is written by LIse Howe, Associate Broker with RLAH in Chevy Chase MD. With 38 years of experience selling luxury homes in Bethesda MD, I look forward to helping you find that perfect home.
When buyers begin exploring Bethesda luxury neighborhoods, the Massachusetts Avenue Corridor quickly rises to the top of the list. This stretch from downtown Bethesda toward the DC line and the Potomac River is home to some of the most prestigious and enduring communities in Montgomery County. Neighborhoods such as Westmoreland Hills, Sumner, Springfield, Tulip Hill, Glen Echo Heights, and nearby Woodacres offer architectural beauty, strong schools, and a lifestyle that keeps families rooted here for generations.
Many buyers start in Woodacres for the schools and parks, move into larger homes in Sumner or Springfield as their needs grow, and eventually transition to Sumner Village when downsizing. These neighborhoods offer a rare combination of stability, charm, and long-term value that define the best of Bethesda luxury real estate.
Westmoreland Hills: Prestigious, Parkside Luxury
Westmoreland Hills is one of Bethesda’s most coveted luxury neighborhoods, known for its elegant homes, leafy streets, and direct access to the Capital Crescent Trail and Westmoreland Hills Park. Its proximity to the DC line makes it especially appealing to buyers who want suburban tranquility without sacrificing convenience.
This neighborhood offers:
- Classic colonials and beautifully executed custom homes
- Walkability to parks, trails, and local shops and restaurants like Millie’s and Crate and Barrel
- Enduring property values and a strong sense of community
- Easy access to downtown DC
Homes in Westmoreland Hills rarely come to market, and when they do, they attract immediate interest from buyers seeking luxury close to Washington, DC.
Sumner: A Cornerstone of Bethesda Luxury Living
Sumner remains one of the most desirable Bethesda luxury neighborhoods, offering stately colonials, custom new construction, and beautifully landscaped streets. Built by WC&AN Miller in the 1950s, Sumner has maintained its timeless appeal while evolving with thoughtful renovations and new builds.
- Homes typically range from $1.7M to $2M+, with exceptional properties exceeding $3M
- Located in the highly regarded Walt Whitman High School cluster
- Walkable, quiet, and minutes from downtown Bethesda
- Includes a cluster of ramblers along Sangamore Road and Overlea—ideal for downsizers
With fewer than 500 homes, Sumner’s inventory is always limited, making it one of the most competitive luxury markets in Bethesda. Sumner’s combination of walkability, commuter access, and timeless architecture has made it a popular destination for luxury homebuyers in Bethesda since it was built in the 1950s by WC&AN Miller. If you would like to see what is on the market, let’s talk! There are fewer than 500 homes in Sumner so you will have to move quickly in this market where good properties don’t stay on the market for long! Besides the larger home built in the 1950s, there are a cluster of ramblers which were built along Sangamore Road and Overlea which make perfect homes for downsizers who want to stay in the neighborhood.
Glen Echo Heights: Boutique Luxury Near the Potomac
Glen Echo Heights offers a boutique, character-rich alternative within the Bethesda luxury market. Originally developed as a summer community, it now features an appealing mix of:
- Charming bungalows
- Light-filled ramblers
- Gracious colonials
- Striking contemporary homes
Residents enjoy access to the Potomac River, local trails, and the beautifully renovated Mohican Hills community pool. Homes in Glen Echo Heights are limited and rarely available, making this one of the most exclusive and architecturally diverse Bethesda luxury neighborhoods.
You can choose from charming bungalows, stunning contemporaries, light filled ramblers and gracious colonials. The community pool in Mohican Hills, Bethesda has been serving members since 1958. Recently renovated, it offers an 8-lane competition pool, diving well with 2 boards, kiddie & transition pool, shade structure, deck with 2 covered pavilions for rent. Lifeguards & swim coaches offer private lessons, a swim & dive team.
Residents enjoy access to the Potomac River, local trails, and the recently renovated neighborhood pool, all while remaining minutes from downtown Bethesda and major commuter routes. Homes in Mohican Hills and Glen Echo Heights are limited in number and rarely come available, making them especially attractive to buyers seeking privacy and uniqueness in a Bethesda luxury setting.
Tulip Hill: Space, Privacy, and Timeless Appeal
Tulip Hill is perfect for buyers seeking larger lots, generous interior space, and a peaceful setting. Many original ramblers have been expanded or rebuilt into stunning luxury homes that blend seamlessly with the mature landscape.
Living in Tulip Hill means enjoying:
- Easy access to Glen Echo Park
- Dining at the Irish Inn
- Neighborhood favorites like Kan Pai Sushi and Christopher’s Glen Echo Hardware
Tulip Hill offers the ideal balance of size, privacy, and convenience—hallmarks of the best Bethesda luxury neighborhoods.
As part of the Massachusetts Avenue Corridor, Tulip Hill offers easy access to shopping, dining at places like the Irish Inn, parks like Glen Echo on MacArthur, and transportation while maintaining a peaceful residential atmosphere. For many buyers exploring luxury homes in Bethesda, MD, Tulip Hill represents an excellent balance of size, location, and long-term value.
If you live here you will discover Kan Pai Sushi and Christopher’s Glen Echo Hardware. Both of these are my go-to places! KanPai is perfect for that quick out for dinners while the hardware store manages to be the place that has everything you need while still being small and friendly.
Springfield: Estate-Style Luxury Homes
Springfield is synonymous with gracious, estate-style living. With architect-designed homes, large private lots, and some of the highest-priced properties in Bethesda, Springfield attracts buyers seeking true luxury.
- Many homes exceed $3M, especially newer construction
- Served by Wood Acres Elementary, Pyle Middle School, and Walt Whitman High School
- Close to the new Westbard development with Giant, Tatte, and convenient dining
- Minutes from River Road’s Whole Foods, Ledo’s Pizza, and other local favorites
Springfield remains one of the most prestigious and established Bethesda luxury neighborhoods.
Woodacres: Exceptional Schools and Incredible Value
Woodacres offers access to the same lifestyle and school pyramid as the higher-priced neighborhoods along Massachusetts Avenue, but at a more approachable price point.
- Homes typically sell in the mid-$1.6M to mid-$1.7M range
- Served by Wood Acres Elementary, one of Montgomery County’s top schools
- Known for its parks, community events, and welcoming neighborhood feel which features a 4th of July parade and a Halloween party
For buyers balancing school quality, location, and value, Woodacres remains one of the smartest choices in Bethesda.
Why Buyers Choose Bethesda Luxury Neighborhoods
The luxury neighborhoods along the Massachusetts Avenue Corridor continue to attract buyers because they offer:
- Proximity to Washington, DC and downtown Bethesda
- Top-performing public and private schools
- Strong resale value and long-term market stability
- Architectural character and mature landscaping
- Access to parks, trails, and cultural amenities
Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Sumner, the estate-style homes of Springfield, the boutique charm of Glen Echo Heights, or the park side appeal of Westmoreland Hills, these neighborhoods offer an exceptional lifestyle and a sound real estate investment.
Let’s Find Your Bethesda Luxury Home
With 38 years of experience specializing in Bethesda luxury neighborhoods, I can help you find the perfect home in the community that best fits your lifestyle and goals. You can do some searching on your own by clicking here, but then we definitely should talk!
You can reach me at 240‑401‑5577 or lise@Lisehowe.com.
FAQs:
What is the Bethesda luxury neighborhood closest to DC?
The first Bethesda luxury neighborhood along Massachusetts Avenue is Westmoreland Hills.
Is there any starter community along the Massachusetts Avenue Corridor in Bethesda?
The neighborhood which might qualify as a starter community is Woodacres, although with list prices above $1M, it is unlikely that many first time homebuyers start here.
What are the schools that serve these neighborhoods.
Children who live along Massachusetts Avenue attend Woodacres ES, Westbook Elementary and Bannockburn.
Are there grocery stores nearby?
Absolutely! There is a new Giant at Westbard Avenue, which is very close to Woodacres, Springfield and Sumner. The closest Safeway is at Bradley and Arlington Roads while Trader Joes just opened on Western Avenue and Wisconsin.
Where are the closest parks?
Westmoreland Hills has a lovely park with soccer fields and a community center while Woodacres also has a great park with a wonderful playground. It would be hard to describe the C&O canal as a park, but it is certainly an incredible asset for runners, bikers, kayakers and dog walkers!