Cities and Towns in Frederick County, Maryland

Founded in 1748, Frederick County is one of 23 counties in the state of Maryland. Historically, Frederick County was formed from part of Prince George’s County. The city of Frederick is the county seat. With FIPS code of 21, Frederick County has a population of 279,835 and area of 667 square miles (1,728 km²).

List of all cities in Frederick County, MD alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Adamstown, MD 21710 301/240/227
Braddock Heights, MD 21714 301/240/227
Brunswick, MD 21716 301/240/227
21758 301/240/227
Buckeystown, MD 21717 301/240/227
Burkittsville, MD 21718 301/240/227
College Estates, MD 21702 301/240/227
Doubs, MD 21710 301/240/227
Emmitsburg, MD 21727 301/240/227
Fort Detrick, MD 21702 301/240/227
Frederick, MD 21701 301/240/227
21702 301/240/227
21703 301/240/227
21704 301/240/227
21705 301/240/227
21709 301/240/227
Graceham, MD 21788 301/240/227
Hood College, MD 21701 301/240/227
Ijamsville, MD 21754 301/240/227
Jefferson, MD 21755 301/240/227
Knoxville, MD 21716 301/240/227
21758 301/240/227
Ladiesburg, MD 21759 301/240/227
Lake Linganore, MD 21774 301/240/227
Lewistown, MD 21701 301/240/227
Libertytown, MD 21762 301/240/227
Middletown, MD 21769 301/240/227
Monrovia, MD 21770 301/240/227
Mount Airy, MD 21771 301/240/227
Myersville, MD 21773 301/240/227
New Market, MD 21774 301/240/227
New Midway, MD 21775 301/240/227
Point of Rocks, MD 21777 301/240/227
Rocky Ridge, MD 21778 301/240/227
Sabillasville, MD 21780 301/240/227
State Farm Ins Co, MD 21709 301/240/227
Thurmont, MD 21788 301/240/227
Tuscarora, MD 21790 301/240/227
Unionville, MD 21792 301/240/227
Urbana, MD 21704 301/240/227
Walkersville, MD 21793 301/240/227
Woodsboro, MD 21798 301/240/227

Major Cities and Towns in Frederick County, Maryland

Frederick

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 24.12 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 78,171 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 21701, 21702, 21703, 21704, 21705
  • Latitude: 39.4143° N
  • Longitude: 77.4105° W

Location and History

Frederick, the county seat of Frederick County, is located in western Maryland, about 50 miles northwest of Washington, D.C., and 45 miles west of Baltimore. Established in 1745 by German settlers, Frederick developed as a key trade and transportation hub along major routes connecting the Chesapeake Bay region with western Maryland and Pennsylvania. During the Civil War, Frederick found itself at the crossroads of major campaigns, including the Battle of Antietam. The city is known for its well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture, vibrant downtown, and cultural heritage. Today, Frederick is the second-largest city in Maryland, known for its blend of historic charm and modern growth, serving as a regional center for business, healthcare, and education.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Frederick is part of Frederick County Public Schools, with several high schools including Frederick High School and Governor Thomas Johnson High School. Major landmarks include the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, which explores the medical history of the Civil War, and the historic Barbara Fritchie House, associated with the famous Union patriot. Baker Park, located in the heart of the city, offers recreational facilities and hosts community events such as the annual Frederick Festival of the Arts. Frederick’s Carroll Creek Park is a centerpiece of the downtown revitalization, with restaurants, shops, and public art installations along the waterway.

Brunswick

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 3.28 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 7,762 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 21716
  • Latitude: 39.3144° N
  • Longitude: 77.6272° W

Location and History

Brunswick is located along the Potomac River in southwestern Frederick County, about 12 miles from Harpers Ferry and 15 miles west of Frederick. The town was originally settled in the 18th century and gained prominence in the late 19th century as a major rail town for the Baltimore and Ohio (B&O) Railroad. By the early 20th century, Brunswick had become the largest rail yard between Baltimore and Cumberland, with many residents employed by the railroad. Although the railroad’s influence has diminished, Brunswick remains a vibrant community with a deep connection to its railroading past, now highlighted through local museums and cultural events.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Brunswick is part of Frederick County Public Schools, with Brunswick High School serving the town’s students. Major landmarks include the Brunswick Heritage Museum, which documents the town’s railroading history, and the C&O Canal National Historical Park, where visitors can explore the canal’s towpath along the Potomac River. The town hosts the annual Brunswick Railroad Days festival, celebrating its railroading legacy with train rides, music, and family activities. The nearby Appalachian Trail offers opportunities for hiking and outdoor exploration, with stunning views of the Potomac River valley.

Middletown

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.74 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 4,834 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 21769
  • Latitude: 39.4431° N
  • Longitude: 77.5408° W

Location and History

Middletown is located in the scenic Middletown Valley, between South Mountain and Catoctin Mountain, about 10 miles west of Frederick. Founded in 1767, Middletown developed as a small farming community and stagecoach stop along the National Road (now U.S. Route 40). The town played a role in the Civil War, with Union and Confederate forces passing through Middletown en route to the Battle of South Mountain and Antietam. Today, Middletown retains its rural charm while serving as a growing suburban community. Its picturesque setting and historical character make it a desirable place to live for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Middletown is part of Frederick County Public Schools, with Middletown High School serving local students. Major landmarks include the Middletown Historic District, which features many preserved 19th-century homes and buildings, and Zion Lutheran Church, one of the oldest churches in the area. The town’s Heritage Days festival celebrates Middletown’s rich history with parades, crafts, and live music. The nearby South Mountain State Battlefield, site of a significant Civil War engagement, offers hiking trails and historical exhibits. Middletown Park provides outdoor recreational facilities for residents, including sports fields, walking trails, and playgrounds.

Thurmont

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 3.14 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 6,935 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 21788
  • Latitude: 39.6190° N
  • Longitude: 77.4108° W

Location and History

Thurmont is located in the northern part of Frederick County, at the foot of the Catoctin Mountains, about 15 miles north of Frederick and 10 miles south of the Pennsylvania border. Originally called Mechanicstown, the town was renamed Thurmont in 1894. Thurmont is known for its close proximity to the presidential retreat Camp David, which is located within the nearby Catoctin Mountain Park. Historically a center for milling and agriculture, Thurmont has evolved into a gateway for outdoor recreation, attracting visitors to its parks, hiking trails, and natural beauty.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Thurmont is part of Frederick County Public Schools, with Catoctin High School serving the town. Major landmarks include Catoctin Mountain Park, home to Camp David and popular for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation, and Cunningham Falls State Park, known for its waterfalls and recreational opportunities. The annual Catoctin Colorfest is one of the largest arts and crafts festivals on the East Coast, drawing thousands of visitors each fall. Thurmont’s historic Main Street offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries, contributing to the town’s small-town charm and community spirit.

Walkersville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 4.79 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 6,306 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 21793
  • Latitude: 39.4862° N
  • Longitude: 77.3494° W

Location and History

Walkersville is located in the northern part of Frederick County, about 6 miles northeast of Frederick. The town was founded in the 18th century and developed as an agricultural community, with its fertile farmland supporting local farming operations. Originally known as Georgetown, the town was renamed Walkersville in 1892 in honor of a prominent local family. Today, Walkersville has grown as a residential community, with a mix of historic homes and modern developments. The town’s agricultural roots remain evident, with several family-owned farms and agricultural businesses still operating in the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Walkersville is served by Frederick County Public Schools, with Walkersville High School being the primary secondary institution. Major landmarks include the Walkersville Southern Railroad, which offers scenic train rides through the countryside and is a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike. The Fountain Rock Nature Center and Park provide educational programs and walking trails that highlight the area’s natural history and wildlife. Walkersville’s annual Volunteer Firemen’s Carnival is a beloved tradition, bringing the community together for rides, games, and fireworks. The nearby Monocacy National Battlefield, a Civil War site, offers additional historical insights into the region.

Emmitsburg

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.56 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 2,814 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 21727
  • Latitude: 39.7048° N
  • Longitude: 77.3265° W

Location and History

Emmitsburg is located in the northernmost part of Frederick County, near the Pennsylvania border, and about 12 miles south of Gettysburg. The town was founded in 1785 and is best known as the home of Mount St. Mary’s University, one of the oldest Catholic institutions of higher education in the United States. Emmitsburg also holds historical significance as the site of the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first American-born saint. During the Civil War, Emmitsburg was a strategic location due to its proximity to the Battle of Gettysburg, with Union troops passing through the town en route to the battlefield.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Emmitsburg is served by Frederick County Public Schools, with students attending nearby Catoctin High School. Major landmarks include Mount St. Mary’s University, which features the Grotto of Lourdes, a popular pilgrimage site, and the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, which honors the life and legacy of the first American saint. The Emmitsburg Historic District preserves many 19th-century buildings that reflect the town’s rich history. Emmitsburg also serves as the headquarters for the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Emergency Training Center. The town’s close proximity to Gettysburg and the scenic Catoctin Mountains make it a destination for history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.