Harper's Choice, Laurel, DE

Harper's Choice Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Harper's Choice is a distinctive and well-established planned community within the city of Columbia, Maryland, located just north of its downtown Laurel border. As one of the ten original "villages" conceived by developer James Rouse in the 1960s, it embodies the innovative, inclusive, and community-focused ideals that defined Columbia's founding. The neighborhood is characterized by its winding, tree-lined streets, abundant green spaces, and a thoughtful layout that integrates residential areas with commercial centers and recreational amenities.

The village takes its name from the historic Harper family farm that once occupied the land, a nod to the area's rural past. Its design centers around the iconic "swimming pool and tennis club" concept, with the Harper's Choice Village Center serving as a social and commercial hub. Located conveniently between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., and with easy access to major routes like I-95, Route 29, and Route 32, Harper's Choice offers a suburban retreat with strong connections to the broader region's employment and cultural centers.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Harper's Choice is predominantly composed of single-family homes from the 1960s and 1970s, featuring a mix of Colonial, Split-level, and Townhouse styles. Many homes are situated on spacious, wooded lots, contributing to the neighborhood's mature and established feel. In addition to these, there are several condominium and apartment complexes, such as the Hobbit's Glen apartments, offering more affordable and low-maintenance living options within the village.

As a sought-after Columbia village, home prices in Harper's Choice typically range from the mid-$300,000s for condos to well over $600,000 for larger, updated single-family homes. The market is primarily owner-occupied, reflecting the neighborhood's stability and appeal to long-term residents. Recent trends show steady demand, with homes often receiving updates to modernize interiors while maintaining their classic architectural character, and property values consistently benefiting from the area's excellent amenities and school district.

Schools & Education

Harper's Choice is served by the highly regarded Howard County Public School System. Students typically attend Bryant Woods Elementary School, Harper's Choice Middle School, and Wilde Lake High School, all of which are located within or immediately adjacent to the village boundaries. This creates a tight-knit educational community where children can walk or bike to school, and families are deeply involved in school activities and parent-teacher associations.

The schools are known for strong academic programs, diverse student bodies, and a wide array of extracurricular activities. For younger children, the village is home to several highly-rated preschools and daycare centers. The neighborhood's proximity to Howard Community College in Columbia and several major universities in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., further enhances its educational appeal for residents of all ages.

Parks & Recreation

Recreation is a cornerstone of life in Harper's Choice. The neighborhood boasts over 200 acres of open space, including numerous pocket parks, playgrounds, and the extensive pathway system that connects to Columbia's broader 100-mile network. The 22-acre Symphony Woods, home to the Merriweather Post Pavilion, borders the village, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and world-class outdoor concert venues. Robinson Nature Center is also a short distance away.

The Harper's Choice Community Association operates the popular Harper's Choice Village Pool and Tennis Club, a central social gathering spot with swimming pools, tennis courts, and community events. Nearby, the Athletic Club at the Columbia Association's Supreme Sports Club provides comprehensive fitness facilities. For golf enthusiasts, the Hobbit's Glen Golf Club, a premier public course, is a defining feature of the village's landscape and recreational offerings.

Local Dining & Shopping

The Harper's Choice Village Center is the commercial and social heart of the neighborhood. This pedestrian-friendly center features a variety of essential services and beloved local businesses, including a Safeway grocery store, a UPS Store, a hardware store, and several salons. Dining options range from casual favorites like The Second Chance Saloon, a long-standing pub, to more recent additions like Akira Ramen & Izakaya, reflecting evolving tastes.

Just beyond the village center, residents have easy access to the wider array of shopping and dining in Columbia Town Center, including The Mall in Columbia and the Merriweather District. For everyday needs, the nearby Dobbin Center and the Kings Contrivance Village Center offer additional grocery options like Harris Teeter and a diverse selection of restaurants, from Italian at Trattoria E Pizzeria to classic American fare at The Food Market.

Who Lives Here

Harper's Choice attracts a diverse mix of residents, including young professionals, established families, and active retirees who appreciate its planned community amenities and convenient location. The population is well-educated, with many residents working in government, technology, healthcare, and education sectors in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., or at the nearby Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and Fort Meade.

The community vibe is engaged and neighborly, fostered by an active village community association that organizes seasonal events, social clubs, and neighborhood watch programs. People are drawn to Harper's Choice for its perfect balance of suburban tranquility, community spirit, and urban accessibility. It appeals to those seeking a stable, amenity-rich neighborhood with a strong sense of identity and a legacy of thoughtful planning.

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