If you’re hunting for the zip code for Takoma Park Maryland, you’ll mostly find one main answer: 20912. It’s the primary identifier for this quirky, independent-minded city in Montgomery County. But like most things in Takoma Park, it’s not just a simple grid on a map. There is a lot of overlap with 20910 and 20913 that catches people off guard when they’re trying to mail a package or buy a house.
Honestly, the boundaries are a bit of a mess. You’ve got the city of Takoma Park, and then you have the neighborhood of Takoma in D.C. (which uses 20012). Cross a street, and suddenly your zip code changes, but the vibe stays the same. It’s a place where the "Nuclear Free Zone" signs are still a point of pride and the local rooster, Roscoe, has his own statue.
The Big Numbers: 20912 and the Neighbors
Basically, 20912 covers the heart of the city. We’re talking about the historic district, the municipal buildings on Maple Avenue, and most of the residential streets lined with those massive, wrap-around porch Victorians.
However, you might see 20913 pop up. Don’t panic. It’s specifically used for Post Office boxes at the Laurel Avenue post office. If you’re living in an apartment on the edge of the city toward Silver Spring, you might even have a 20910 address, even if you pay Takoma Park city taxes. It gets confusing.
The city is small—only about two square miles—but it’s densely packed. About 17,600 people live here. That’s a lot of folks sharing one main zip code. Because of that density, 20912 is one of the most recognizable codes in the D.C. suburbs.
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Why People Obsess Over the Zip Code for Takoma Park Maryland
For some, it’s about the schools. Takoma Park is part of the Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) system, which is legendary. But specifically, being in the 20912 zip code often means you’re within walking distance of Piney Branch Elementary or the Takoma Park Middle School, which houses a highly competitive math and science magnet program.
Real estate agents love to use the zip code as shorthand for "expensive but worth it." You aren't just buying a house; you're buying into a lifestyle.
- The Historic Vibe: Most homes in 20912 were built in the 1920s or earlier. Think bungalows and Queen Annes.
- The Commute: You’re minutes from the Takoma Metro station (Red Line).
- The Politics: It’s known as the "Berkeley of the East." They let 16-year-olds vote in local elections here.
- Greenery: It’s a designated Tree City USA. If you try to cut down a tree in 20912 without a permit, the city will let you know about it. Fast.
The Financial Reality of 20912
Living in the 20912 zip code isn't cheap. The median home value has climbed well past $720,000 recently. Some of those restored Victorians? They’ll easily clear $1.2 million.
Renting is a different story. About half the city rents. You’ll find mid-century apartment buildings along Maple Avenue and Lee Avenue that offer a slightly more affordable entry point into the community. But even then, you’re paying for that proximity to D.C. and the unique "Old Town" atmosphere.
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Navigating the Post Office and Logistics
The main post office is at 6909 Laurel Ave. If you’re sending mail to a business in the Takoma Junction area or Old Town, you’re definitely using 20912.
But here is a pro tip: If you are looking at a map and see a property listed in 20783, that’s usually Langley Park. It’s right next door. The transition between the zip code for Takoma Park Maryland and the neighboring Hyattsville or Silver Spring codes happens fast. Sometimes it’s just the middle of a block.
Cultural Landmarks You'll Find in 20912
If you spend any time in the 20912 area, you have to visit Takoma Junction. It's the intersection of Carroll and Ethan Allen Avenues. It’s iconic. It’s also where the TPSS Co-op is located—the heartbeat of the local food scene.
- The Farmers Market: Every Sunday, year-round. It’s a ritual.
- Roscoe the Rooster Statue: Located at the corner of Laurel and Carroll.
- The Library: They’ve been doing a massive renovation lately, but it’s a cornerstone of the 20912 community.
The lifestyle here is very "un-suburban." People walk. They bike. They know their neighbors' names. It’s the kind of place where a lost dog post on a neighborhood listserv gets fifty replies in an hour.
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Actionable Tips for Using the Zip Code
If you are moving here or just visiting, keep these things in mind about the zip code for Takoma Park Maryland:
- Check the Ward: Takoma Park has six wards. Your zip code will be 20912 regardless, but your city council representative changes based on the ward.
- Parking Permits: If you live in certain parts of 20912, you need a residential parking permit. The city is strict because of the Metro commuters.
- Utility Differences: Because it’s an incorporated city, you deal with Takoma Park Public Works for trash, but Pepco for electricity and WSSC for water.
Don't just rely on a GPS when looking for addresses in this area. Since the D.C. line is right there, "Takoma" and "Takoma Park" are often used interchangeably by apps, but they can put you miles apart. Always double-check that you have the MD or DC part right.
To get the most out of the area, check the official City of Takoma Park website or the "Main Street Takoma" guide. They stay updated on the frequent festivals—like the Jazz Festival or the Folk Festival—that take over the 20912 streets every year.
Verify your specific address on the Montgomery County Planning Department's interactive map. This is the only way to be 100% sure if you fall within the city limits or just the general zip code area. Take a walk through Old Town on a Sunday morning to see if the 20912 energy actually fits your speed before committing to a lease or a mortgage.