Cities and Towns in Carroll County, Maryland

Founded in 1837, Carroll County is one of 23 counties in the state of Maryland. Historically, Carroll County was formed from parts of Baltimore County and Frederick County. The city of Westminster is the county seat. With FIPS code of 13, Carroll County has a population of 173,873 and area of 452 square miles (1,171 km²).

List of all cities in Carroll County, MD alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Carrollton, MD	21157	410/443/667
Detour, MD	21757	410/443/667
Eldersburg, MD	21784	410/443/667
Finksburg, MD	21048	410/443/667
Gaither, MD	21784	410/443/667
Greenmount, MD	21074	410/443/667
Hampstead, MD	21074	410/443/667
Henryton, MD	21104	410/443/667
Keymar, MD	21757	410/443/667
Lineboro, MD	21088	410/443/667
	21102	410/443/667
Linwood, MD	21791	410/443/667
Manchester, MD	21088	410/443/667
	21102	410/443/667
Marriottsville, MD	21104	410/443/667
Middleburg, MD	21757	410/443/667
Millers, MD	21102	410/443/667
New Windsor, MD	21776	410/443/667
Patapsco, MD	21048	410/443/667
Sykesville, MD	21784	410/443/667
Taneytown, MD	21787	410/443/667
Union Bridge, MD	21791	410/443/667
Westminster, MD	21157	410/443/667
	21158	410/443/667
Woodstock, MD	21104	410/443/667

Major Cities and Towns in Carroll County, Maryland

Westminster

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 6.64 square miles
• Population: Approximately 19,698 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 21157, 21158
• Latitude: 39.5754° N
• Longitude: 77.0000° W

Location and History

Westminster, the county seat of Carroll County, is located about 35 miles northwest of Baltimore. Founded in 1764 by William Winchester, the town developed as an agricultural and trading center. During the Civil War, Westminster was a key location on the road to Gettysburg, and it briefly saw conflict during the Union and Confederate campaigns. Over the years, Westminster has grown into a small city with a mix of historical charm and modern amenities. The town is known for its vibrant downtown area, which features numerous shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Westminster is home to McDaniel College, a private liberal arts college, and is served by Carroll County Public Schools, with Westminster High School being a prominent institution. Major landmarks include the Carroll County Farm Museum, which showcases rural life in the 19th century, and the historic Union Mills Homestead, a preserved gristmill and manor house. The town’s annual Westminster Flower and Jazz Festival and the Maryland Wine Festival draw visitors from across the region. Westminster City Park and the nearby Hashawha Environmental Center provide recreational opportunities for residents and tourists alike.

Taneytown

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 3.06 square miles
• Population: Approximately 7,234 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 21787
• Latitude: 39.6584° N
• Longitude: 77.1747° W

Location and History

Taneytown is located in the northwestern part of Carroll County, near the Pennsylvania border. Founded in 1754 by German settlers, the town became an important stop on the road between Baltimore and Gettysburg. Taneytown’s historical significance is underscored by its close proximity to key Civil War sites, including Gettysburg. Over the centuries, the town has retained its rural character while growing as a residential community. Its charming downtown area features well-preserved 19th-century buildings, reflecting its long history as a farming and market town.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Taneytown is part of Carroll County Public Schools, with Francis Scott Key High School serving local students. Major landmarks include the Taneytown Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and Antrim 1844, a historic estate that now operates as a luxury hotel and event venue. The Taneytown Memorial Park is a popular spot for recreation and community events. The nearby Catoctin Mountain Park and Cunningham Falls State Park offer outdoor activities, while the town’s annual Harvest Festival celebrates Taneytown’s agricultural heritage with family-friendly activities.

Sykesville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 1.58 square miles
• Population: Approximately 4,496 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 21784
• Latitude: 39.3682° N
• Longitude: 76.9680° W

Location and History

Sykesville is located in southern Carroll County, along the Patapsco River, about 20 miles west of Baltimore. Founded in the early 19th century by James Sykes, the town developed as a milling and transportation hub due to its location on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad line. Sykesville’s historic downtown retains much of its 19th-century charm, with many original buildings preserved. Over the years, the town has transformed from a rural mill town into a quaint suburban community with a thriving arts and cultural scene. In 2016, Sykesville was named “America’s Coolest Small Town” by Budget Travel Magazine.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sykesville is part of Carroll County Public Schools, with Century High School serving the area. Major landmarks include the Sykesville Historic District, which features numerous shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in preserved 19th-century buildings. The Sykesville Gate House Museum of History showcases the town’s railroad and industrial past. Piney Run Park, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and hiking, is located nearby. The annual Sykesville Art & Wine Festival and the Sykesville Fall Festival are community highlights, attracting visitors from across the region to enjoy local food, art, and music.

Mount Airy

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 4.14 square miles
• Population: Approximately 9,477 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 21771
• Latitude: 39.3762° N
• Longitude: 77.1547° W

Location and History

Mount Airy is located on the border of Carroll and Frederick counties, approximately 40 miles west of Baltimore and 50 miles north of Washington, D.C. The town was established in the early 19th century as a stagecoach stop along the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad line and grew as a commercial center for local agriculture. Its name comes from the cool mountain breezes that are a characteristic of the area. Today, Mount Airy is a thriving suburban community known for its small-town feel and easy access to major metropolitan areas. The town’s historic downtown is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Mount Airy is served by both Carroll County Public Schools and Frederick County Public Schools, with South Carroll High School and Linganore High School being the primary secondary institutions. Major landmarks include the Mount Airy Historic District, which features preserved 19th-century buildings and a variety of local businesses. The town’s annual Mount Airy Fall Fest and the Chili Cook-Off are popular events that draw visitors from across the region. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy exploring the nearby Parr’s Ridge, which offers scenic views and hiking trails. The Mount Airy Carnival Grounds also host numerous community events throughout the year.

Hampstead

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 3.36 square miles
• Population: Approximately 6,323 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 21074
• Latitude: 39.6055° N
• Longitude: 76.8494° W

Location and History

Hampstead is located in northern Carroll County, about 30 miles northwest of Baltimore. The town was founded in 1786 and developed as an agricultural and milling center. The Western Maryland Railroad’s arrival in the 19th century further spurred Hampstead’s growth, making it a key trading point for local farmers. Hampstead has preserved much of its historical charm, with many original buildings still standing in the downtown area. In recent decades, Hampstead has grown as a suburban community, attracting families seeking a quieter, more rural lifestyle while remaining within commuting distance of Baltimore.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hampstead is served by Carroll County Public Schools, with North Carroll High School (closed in 2016) and Manchester Valley High School serving local students. Major landmarks include the Hampstead Historic District, which features a variety of 19th-century buildings, and Leister Park, offering sports fields, picnic areas, and walking trails. The Hampstead Volunteer Fire Company hosts community events throughout the year, including the annual Hampstead Day Festival, which celebrates the town’s history and community spirit. The nearby Prettyboy Reservoir offers outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

Manchester

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 2.37 square miles
• Population: Approximately 5,018 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 21102
• Latitude: 39.6615° N
• Longitude: 76.8891° W

Location and History

Manchester is located in northern Carroll County, near the Pennsylvania border. The town was settled in the mid-18th century by German immigrants and developed as an agricultural community. Its fertile farmland made it a prosperous area for farming, and the town grew steadily throughout the 19th century. Manchester has retained much of its rural charm, with its well-preserved historic buildings and strong sense of community. Despite its rural setting, Manchester has seen residential growth in recent years, attracting those seeking a quieter lifestyle while being within commuting distance of Baltimore.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Manchester is part of Carroll County Public Schools, with Manchester Valley High School serving the area. Major landmarks include Christmas Tree Park, which offers sports fields, picnic areas, and walking trails, and the Manchester Historic District, which features a number of well-preserved 19th-century homes and businesses. The town’s annual Manchester Christmas Tree Lighting is a popular event that brings the community together each winter. The nearby Gunpowder Falls State Park provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and outdoor recreation, making it a favorite destination for nature lovers in the area.