Gaithersburg approaches Baltimore City's population density amid demographic shifts

Population density took center stage during the Gaithersburg Mayor & Council Joint Work Session on March 10, 2025, as officials discussed the city's growth in comparison to Baltimore City and Washington, D.C. The conversation highlighted Gaithersburg's increasing density, which is approaching that of Baltimore City, currently at about 7,000 persons per square mile.

Council members noted that while Gaithersburg's density is rising, it remains significantly lower than Washington, D.C.'s density of over 11,000 persons per square mile. Historical context was provided, revealing that Baltimore City once boasted a density of over 11,000 persons per square mile in 1950, a stark contrast to its current figures due to population decline.

The discussion also touched on the implications of vacant units in Baltimore, suggesting that if these were accounted for, the city would appear denser than Gaithersburg. This comparison underscores the shifting dynamics of urban populations and the challenges cities face in managing growth and density.

As Gaithersburg continues to develop, the council's insights into population trends will be crucial for future planning and resource allocation, ensuring the city can accommodate its growing community while maintaining quality of life.