Cities and Towns in Saint Mary’s County, Maryland

Founded in 1637, St. Mary’s County is one of 23 counties in the state of Maryland. Historically, St. Mary’s County was formed from unorganized territory. Was named Potomac County between 1654 and 1658. The city of Leonardtown is the county seat. With FIPS code of 37, St. Mary’s County has a population of 114,468 and area of 611 square miles (1,582 km²).

List of all cities in Saint Mary’s County, MD alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Abell, MD 20606 301/240/227
Avenue, MD 20609 301/240/227
Beachville, MD 20684 301/240/227
Bushwood, MD 20618 301/240/227
California, MD 20619 301/240/227
Callaway, MD 20620 301/240/227
Chaptico, MD 20621 301/240/227
Charlotte Hall, MD 20622 301/240/227
Clements, MD 20624 301/240/227
Coltons Point, MD 20626 301/240/227
Compton, MD 20627 301/240/227
Dameron, MD 20628 301/240/227
Drayden, MD 20630 301/240/227
Great Mills, MD 20634 301/240/227
Helen, MD 20635 301/240/227
Hollywood, MD 20636 301/240/227
Leonardtown, MD 20650 301/240/227
LEX Park, MD 20653 301/240/227
Lexington Park, MD 20653 301/240/227
Loveville, MD 20656 301/240/227
Maddox, MD 20621 301/240/227
Mechanicsville, MD 20659 301/240/227
Mechanicsvlle, MD 20659 301/240/227
Morganza, MD 20660 301/240/227
Park Hall, MD 20667 301/240/227
Patuxent River, MD 20670 301/240/227
Patuxent River Naval Air Station, MD 20670 301/240/227
Piney Point, MD 20674 301/240/227
Ridge, MD 20680 301/240/227
Saint Inigoes, MD 20684 301/240/227
Saint Marys, MD 20686 301/240/227
Scotland, MD 20687 301/240/227
Tall Timbers, MD 20690 301/240/227
Valley Lee, MD 20692 301/240/227

Major Cities and Towns in Saint Mary’s County, Maryland

1. Leonardtown

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

  • Area: 3.25 square miles
  • Population: 4,563 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 20650
  • Latitude: 38.2921° N
  • Longitude: 76.6358° W

Location and History

Leonardtown is the county seat of Saint Mary’s County, located in southern Maryland along Breton Bay, about 60 miles south of Washington, D.C. Established in 1708, Leonardtown was named after Benedict Leonard Calvert, the son of Charles Calvert, the third Lord Baltimore. The town played an important role during the War of 1812 when British troops landed near the area. Leonardtown grew as a commercial and administrative center in the 19th and 20th centuries, with its port serving as a hub for agriculture and trade. Today, Leonardtown is known for its historic downtown and vibrant waterfront, making it a cultural and economic center for Saint Mary’s County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Leonardtown High School serves the local student population, and the town is also home to St. Mary’s Ryken High School, a private Catholic school. Key landmarks include the Tudor Hall, a historic mansion that now houses the St. Mary’s County Historical Society, and the Leonardtown Wharf Park, which offers scenic views and public access to Breton Bay. Leonardtown hosts several annual events, including the Leonardtown First Fridays and the St. Mary’s County Oyster Festival, home to the National Oyster Shucking Championship. The town’s historic square features numerous shops, galleries, and restaurants, contributing to its small-town charm.

2. Lexington Park

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

  • Area: 7.25 square miles
  • Population: 13,410 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 20653
  • Latitude: 38.2666° N
  • Longitude: 76.4536° W

Location and History

Lexington Park is located in southern Saint Mary’s County, near the Patuxent River, and is known for being the home of the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. Founded in the early 1940s as a planned community to support the growing needs of the naval base, Lexington Park quickly developed as a military town. The establishment of the naval base during World War II brought rapid growth, and the town’s economy became closely tied to defense and aerospace industries. Over the years, Lexington Park has continued to evolve with a focus on technology and research, particularly in aviation and cybersecurity.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lexington Park is served by Great Mills High School, one of the larger schools in the county. Notable landmarks include the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum, which showcases the history and development of naval aviation, and the nearby John G. Lancaster Park, offering sports fields, trails, and a military memorial. The town’s proximity to the Patuxent River allows for outdoor activities such as boating and fishing, while the Lexington Village shopping center serves as a commercial hub. The naval air station continues to be the town’s primary employer, influencing its modern-day economy and community.

3. California

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

  • Area: 14.80 square miles
  • Population: 13,672 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 20619
  • Latitude: 38.3037° N
  • Longitude: 76.5077° W

Location and History

California is located in central Saint Mary’s County, adjacent to Lexington Park, and is part of the greater metropolitan area surrounding the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. The town developed rapidly in the latter half of the 20th century due to its proximity to the naval base and the growth of suburban housing and commercial centers. California is known for its shopping districts, particularly along Route 235, which serves as the main commercial artery for the town and the surrounding area. While it lacks the historical character of neighboring Leonardtown, California has grown into a modern hub of commerce and residential development.

Major Schools and Landmarks

California’s schools include Esperanza Middle School and Leonardtown High School, which serve the local population. Key landmarks include the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum, located nearby, and the Wildewood Shopping Center, which serves as a retail and dining hub for the area. The town is close to the Elms Beach Park, a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying views of the Chesapeake Bay. California’s rapid development in recent decades has made it a bustling suburban community, offering a variety of amenities for residents and visitors alike.

4. Great Mills

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

  • Area: 5.86 square miles
  • Population: 6,062 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 20634
  • Latitude: 38.2371° N
  • Longitude: 76.4969° W

Location and History

Great Mills is a small community located near the Patuxent River in southern Saint Mary’s County, adjacent to Lexington Park and California. It is one of the oldest settlements in the county, with its origins dating back to the 17th century. Named after the large water-powered gristmills that once operated in the area, Great Mills was historically a rural farming community. Over time, the area has become more suburban, with increased residential development due to its proximity to the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. Despite its growth, Great Mills retains much of its rural charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Great Mills High School, the oldest public high school in the county, serves students from Great Mills and surrounding communities. Landmarks include the Great Mills Canoe and Kayak Launch, which provides access to the St. Mary’s River for boating and outdoor recreation. The area is also close to Greenwell State Park, offering hiking, fishing, and equestrian activities along the Patuxent River. Great Mills’ proximity to major employment centers, like the naval air station, makes it a convenient location for both work and recreation, while its historic roots and rural landscape give it a peaceful atmosphere.

5. Charlotte Hall

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

  • Area: 5.12 square miles
  • Population: 1,420 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 20622
  • Latitude: 38.4758° N
  • Longitude: 76.7756° W

Location and History

Charlotte Hall is located in northern Saint Mary’s County, near the Charles County border. It was established in the early 18th century as the site of Charlotte Hall Military Academy, one of Maryland’s oldest educational institutions, which operated from 1774 until its closure in 1976. The town developed as a rural farming community and served as a regional market center. Today, Charlotte Hall is known for its expansive Amish farms and local markets, particularly the popular farmers market and auction, which attract visitors from around the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Charlotte Hall is served by schools in nearby communities, including Chopticon High School in Morganza. Key landmarks include the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home, a long-term care facility for military veterans, and the historic Charlotte Hall School, now used for local government offices. The town’s Amish community is a defining feature, with many Amish-owned businesses and farms contributing to the local economy. The Charlotte Hall Library and the Maryland Veterans Memorial Museum are also notable cultural institutions. The town’s rural setting and historical significance make it an important part of Saint Mary’s County’s agricultural and cultural landscape.

6. Mechanicsville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:

  • Area: 11.92 square miles
  • Population: 1,635 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 20659
  • Latitude: 38.4416° N
  • Longitude: 76.7431° W

Location and History

Mechanicsville is a rural town located in northern Saint Mary’s County, about 15 miles northwest of Leonardtown. The town was established in the early 19th century as a small agricultural community, serving the surrounding farms. As its name suggests, Mechanicsville was historically a center for local craftsmen and tradesmen who provided services to the agricultural economy. Today, Mechanicsville remains a quiet rural town with a strong farming presence, though it has also grown as a residential area for those who commute to nearby employment centers.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Mechanicsville is served by Chopticon High School, which is located in the nearby town of Morganza. Major landmarks include the Wicomico Shores Golf Course, located along the Wicomico River, which offers scenic views and recreational opportunities. Mechanicsville is also known for its annual community events, such as the Amish Quilt Auction, which draws visitors from across the region. The town’s proximity to the Patuxent and Wicomico rivers allows for outdoor activities like boating and fishing, and its rural landscape provides a peaceful setting for those seeking a quiet, country lifestyle.