Choose between Bethesda and Chevy Chase? How does one make that decision? Much of it depends on your sense of style, your price point, your commuting pattern, and your choice of schools for children (if you have any.)
Chevy Chase and Bethesda neighborhoods each have their own unique appeal. Here are some factors to consider as you choose between Bethesda and Chevy Chase:
- Housing Costs – Bethesda tends to have more affordable housing compared to Chevy Chase, where home prices are generally higher.
- Commute Times – Bethesda offers slightly shorter average commute times than Chevy Chase. In Bethesda you can commute into DC via the Clara Barton Parkway, MacArthur Boulevard, River Road, Massachusetts Avenue and Wisconsin Avenue. You are also closer to Dulles Airport and Northern Virginia from Bethesda. If you are driving to DC from Chevy Chase, you will likely take Connecticut Avenue or Wisconsin Avenue.
- Community Feel – Chevy Chase is known for its historic charm and upscale atmosphere, while Bethesda has a mix of urban and suburban vibes. Chevy Chase is a smaller community, located inside the Beltway while Bethesda goes from the District Line along Massachusetts Avenue and River Road to outside the Beltway near Westfield Montgomery Mall and along River Road to Potomac.
- Amenities – Both areas have excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options, but Bethesda has a larger commercial district.
- Green Spaces – Chevy Chase has more tree-lined streets and parks, while Bethesda offers easy access to trails and outdoor recreation, such as Cabin John Park, the Little Falls trail and the Capital Crescent Trail.
Would you like recommendations based on your lifestyle preferences? Let’s talk! You can reach me at 240-401-5577 or email me at Lise@lisehowe.com.
Amenities
Will a list of amenities available in these neighborhoods help you choose between Bethesda and Chevy Chase?
Chevy Chase and Bethesda neighborhoods offer a variety of amenities that make them highly desirable places to live. Here are some highlights:
- Parks & Green Spaces – Residents enjoy access to beautiful parks like Rock Creek Park and Norwood Park, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Shopping & Dining – Chevy Chase Pavilion (which is currently under renovation) and Bethesda Row provide a mix of high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
- Community Centers – Local community centers offer fitness programs, events, and recreational activities.
- Public Transportation – Convenient access to Metro stations and bus routes makes commuting easy.
- Schools & Libraries – Top-rated schools and well-stocked libraries serve the community. It is hard to choose between Bethesda and Chevy Chase, based on the schools. One of the highest ranked schools in the country is Walt Whitman HS in Bethesda while Chevy Chase can claim Bethesda-Chevy Chase HS, with its excellent international baccalaureate program. Even the elementary schools in Chevy Chase and Bethesda make it hard to choose between the two.
- Entertainment & Culture – The area boasts theaters, art galleries, and music venues for cultural enrichment.
Why Choose Bethesda?
Bethesda has several great neighborhoods within the Walt Whitman High School district. Some of the most sought-after areas include:
- Edgemoor – Known for its elegant homes and proximity to downtown Bethesda, this neighborhood offers a mix of classic Colonials and modern luxury homes.
- Bannockburn – A charming, wooded neighborhood with spacious lots and a strong sense of community.
- Glen Echo Heights – Offers stunning views and a mix of architectural styles, making it a desirable place to live.
- Bradley Hills – A well-established neighborhood with beautiful homes and easy access to parks and schools.
- Avenel – A prestigious community featuring large homes, golf courses, and scenic landscapes.
If you’re looking for homes near Walt Whitman High School, you can explore listings and neighborhood details here. Let me know if you need more insights!
Why Choose Chevy Chase?
Chevy Chase is always popular with buyers because the area offers excellent schools like Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School and Somerset Elementary. It is close to the metro and the Beltway but still insulated with lots of green lawns and tall trees, parks and trails. It is at the edge of Bethesda with lots of restaurants and shops in addition to its own excellent restaurants like La Ferme on Brookeville Road. There is lots to do for a family living in Chevy Chase.
In addition to large single family homes dating back to the early 20th century, Chevy Chase is home to townhomes like the Hamlet and Kenwood Forest, and several large (and smaller) condo buildings such as 8101 Connecticut Avenue and the Kenwood House, making it a perfect choice for almost everyone who wants to live inside the Beltway.
Chevy Chase has several fantastic neighborhoods within the Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School district. Some of the most desirable areas include:
- Chevy Chase Village – A historic and upscale neighborhood with beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community.
- Chevy Chase Section 3 – Offers a mix of charming older homes and newer properties, with a peaceful atmosphere and easy access to parks.
- Brookville – A quiet, residential area with spacious homes and proximity to Friendship Heights for shopping and dining.
- North Chevy Chase – Known for its suburban feel, excellent schools, and convenient location near Rock Creek Park.
- Martins Additions – A small, close-knit neighborhood with unique homes and a welcoming community vibe.
- Kenwood – A quiet, residential community known for its cherry trees and traditional homes.
You can explore more details about Chevy Chase neighborhoods here. Let me know if you need more insights!
Why Work with Lise?
With over 37 years of real estate experience—plus a background as a licensed attorney—I offer my clients unparalleled expertise and advocacy. Whether you’re buying your first home or downsizing to a co-op, I make sure every step is smooth, clear, and in your best interest.
I’m passionate about helping clients buy condos and co-ops in Chevy Chase, Bethesda, and DC. Let’s meet for coffee (and a pastry!) to talk about your goals.
📞 Call me at 240-401-5577
📧 Or email me at lise@lisehowe.com
Let’s make your next move the best one yet!