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 Sumner, Bethesda MD — Classic Homes Among Trees & Trails Near DC

Sumner is a peaceful residential pocket in Bethesda located along MacArthur Boulevard near the DC border. Known for mature tree cover, rolling hills, and immediate access to the C&O Canal and Glen Echo Park, the neighborhood offers a rare blend of natural beauty and central convenience.

From Sumner, residents can be in Downtown Bethesda, Glen Echo, or on Clara Barton Parkway toward DC in just a few minutes. It’s a great fit for buyers who want greenery, privacy, and an easy commute without giving up nearby dining, shopping, and everyday services.

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Neighborhood Snapshot

You can think of Sumner as a quiet, leafy enclave that still feels incredibly connected.

*Always verify current school assignments with Montgomery County Public Schools.

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Living in Sumner

Life in Sumner feels calm and established. Streets wind through gently sloping terrain, with homes set back on well-landscaped lots and tall, mature trees framing most blocks. It’s common to see neighbors out walking, biking to the Canal, or heading toward Glen Echo Park for performances, classes, or events.

Residents often choose Sumner for:

• A quiet, residential feel without cut-through traffic

• Easy access to outdoor recreation along the Potomac River and C&O Canal

• Proximity to Bethesda, Cabin John, and DC

• A cohesive neighborhood identity with long-term homeowners

If you want a low-key, green setting that’s still close to city energy, Sumner sits in a very appealing spot on the map.

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Homes & Architectural Style

Sumner’s housing stock reflects Bethesda’s post-war growth, with many homes thoughtfully updated over time. You’ll find a mix of:

Mid-Century Homes

• Split-levels and ramblers

• Functional, multi-level layouts

• Large windows and bright interiors

Traditional Brick Colonials

• Classic façades and symmetrical lines

• Formal living and dining rooms in many homes

• Frequent rear or second-story additions to expand living space

Renovated & Custom Homes

• Open main-level floor plans

• Enlarged kitchens with islands and upgraded appliances

• Reimagined exteriors, porches, and enhanced curb appeal

Common Features Throughout the Neighborhood:

• Hardwood flooring

• Fireplaces and built-ins

• Screened porches, decks, and patios

• Private, tree-framed backyards

• Established landscaping and seasonal interest

Whether you prefer original character with subtle updates or a fully modernized renovation, Sumner offers a wide range of options.

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Home Prices in Sumner (2024–2025)

Values in Sumner reflect its location, lot sizes, and school pathway. While exact pricing will depend on condition, size, and level of renovation, you can generally expect:

Inventory is typically limited, and well-presented homes tend to attract strong interest when they hit the market.

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Who Lives in Sumner?

Sumner attracts a wide range of homeowners who appreciate its balance of convenience and calm, including:

• Households looking for a Bethesda neighborhood near the Whitman cluster*

• Professionals commuting to Downtown DC, Georgetown, or Bethesda

• Outdoor enthusiasts who use the C&O Canal Towpath and nearby trails

• NIH and Walter Reed staff who want easier access to major medical campuses

• Long-term Bethesda residents looking for a quieter, tree-lined setting

*School assignments should always be confirmed directly with Montgomery County Public Schools.

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Walkability, Access & Commute

Sumner is primarily residential, but it sits close to several key corridors and activity hubs.

Walkable or Bike-Accessible From Many Homes

• C&O Canal Towpath — for walking, running, and biking along the river

• Glen Echo Park — arts, performances, classes, and historic charm

• Neighborhood playgrounds, green spaces, and local paths

Short Drive to Everyday Destinations

• Westbard Square Redevelopment – shops, services, and new retail offerings

• Downtown Bethesda – dining, shopping, and Metro access

• Capital Crescent Trail – a major regional trail link

• Cabin John Shopping Center & area amenities

Approximate Commute Times

• Downtown DC / Georgetown: ~8–12 minutes via Clara Barton Parkway

• Northern Virginia (via Chain Bridge or Key Bridge): ~15–20 minutes (traffic dependent)

• Downtown Bethesda: often under 10–15 minutes by car

For many buyers, being able to reach both nature and the city so quickly is one of Sumner’s biggest advantages.

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Schools Serving Sumner

Public Schools (subject to change):
Sumner is typically zoned for the following Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) schools:

• Wood Acres Elementary School

• Thomas W. Pyle Middle School

• Walt Whitman High School

Because school boundaries and assignments can change over time, buyers should always verify the most up-to-date information using the MCPS school boundary locator:

MCPS School Lookup: https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/

Nearby Private Schools Include (not exhaustive):

• Holton-Arms

• Landon

• Norwood

• Georgetown Prep

• Washington Waldorf School

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Nearby Neighborhoods to Explore

If you’re considering Sumner, you may also want to compare nearby Bethesda and close-in communities:

• Glen Mar Park

• Fort Sumner

• Glen Echo Heights

• Bannockburn

• Cabin John

• Woodacres

These neighboring communities share many of the same benefits: close-in access, established homes, and proximity to the river and Canal.

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Thinking About a Move to Sumner?

If you’re considering buying or selling a home in SumnerSumner Bethesda MD Homes for Sale, working with a team that knows Bethesda’s neighborhoods street by street can make a real difference.

Legendary Homes of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty is a three-generation real estate team with deep roots in Montgomery County and the DC area. We help clients:

• Understand how Sumner compares to nearby neighborhoods like Woodacres, Glen Mar Park, and Glen Echo Heights

• Evaluate recent sales, renovations, and long-term resale potential

• Strategize timing, pricing, and presentation in a competitive market

• Find off-market and coming-soon opportunities when inventory is tight

Ready to explore homes in Sumner?
Reach out at 240-420-0444 or visit LegendaryHomes.com to start the conversation.

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Sumner FAQ

Q: Where is the Sumner neighborhood located in Bethesda?

Sumner is a residential neighborhood in Bethesda, Maryland, located off MacArthur Boulevard near the DC line, close to Glen Echo and access points to the C&O Canal.

Q: What types of homes are in Sumner?

Sumner is primarily made up of mid-century homes and brick Colonials, along with expanded and renovated custom properties. Many homes maintain classic exteriors while offering updated, more open interiors and enhanced outdoor living spaces.

Q: How much do homes cost in Sumner?

As of 2024–2025, homes in Sumner generally range from around $1.1M to more than $2.3M, depending on factors like size, condition, level of renovation, and individual lot characteristics.

Q: Is Sumner a convenient neighborhood for commuting to Washington, DC?

Yes. Sumner offers very convenient access to Washington, DC, with typical drive times of about 8–12 minutes via Clara Barton Parkway, depending on traffic and destination.

Q: What outdoor recreation is near Sumner?

Residents enjoy close proximity to the C&O Canal Towpath, Glen Echo Park, and other local trails and green spaces along the Potomac River. The area is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Q: Which public schools typically serve Sumner?

The Sumner area is generally served by Wood Acres Elementary School, Thomas W. Pyle Middle School, and Walt Whitman High School in the Montgomery County Public Schools system. School assignments can change over time, so it’s important to confirm current boundaries directly with MCPS.