Fairland City, MD began as a small rural settlement in Montgomery County, where fertile farmland and dense forests supported generations of farming families. While its exact founding year is not precisely documented, records from the 1800s show the area dotted with family-owned farms, mills, and small churches that formed the heart of the community. The name “Fairland” is believed to have originated from its picturesque landscapes and the fertile ground that sustained early settlers.
In the mid-20th century, the suburban expansion of the Washington metropolitan area began to transform Fairland City. The construction of major roads such as the U.S. Route 29 provided faster connections to Washington, D.C., Silver Spring, and Columbia, making Fairland an attractive option for those seeking suburban living within commuting distance of urban centers. This growth brought new residential neighborhoods, schools, and recreational spaces while preserving some of its natural features.
According to Montgomery County demographic data, Fairland City is now a diverse and vibrant suburban community, offering both established neighborhoods and newer developments.
Today, Fairland, City, MD is part of the Washington metropolitan area. It benefits from its proximity to major highways, regional parks, and commercial districts, allowing residents to enjoy a balance of urban convenience and suburban comfort.
ZIP Codes
Fairland City, MD is primarily served by 20904.
20904 – This ZIP code covers the majority of Fairland’s neighborhoods, including residential communities like Greencastle Lakes and areas near Fairland Recreational Park. The district offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes, all with easy access to shopping centers and schools. Landmarks in this ZIP include the Fairland Sports and Aquatics Complex, Paint Branch High School, and portions of the Paint Branch Stream Valley Park. It is primarily residential but includes commercial corridors along U.S. Route 29, featuring restaurants, grocery stores, and service businesses.
While 20904 is the dominant ZIP, nearby codes such as 20707 in Laurel and 20905 in Colesville are within a short drive, expanding access to additional dining, retail, and employment opportunities for Fairland residents. This central positioning helps connect Fairland, City, MD to both Montgomery and Prince George’s County destinations.
Local Landmarks
Fairland, City, MD is home to several community and recreational landmarks. Fairland Recreational Park spans more than 300 acres and features athletic fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, and wooded trails. It is a hub for youth sports and outdoor activities year-round.
The Fairland Sports and Aquatics Complex draws visitors from across the region with its Olympic-sized swimming pool, fitness facilities, and indoor courts. Paint Branch Stream Valley Park winds along the community’s edge, offering serene walking and biking paths shaded by mature trees. These green spaces not only provide recreation but also preserve the natural character that inspired Fairland’s name.
Nearby Major Streets, Parks, or Districts
U.S. Route 29 (Columbia Pike) – A major north-south highway running through Fairland, connecting residents to Silver Spring, Washington, D.C., and Columbia. Its commercial stretches feature shopping centers, restaurants, and essential services.
Greencastle Road – A central residential and commuter route that provides access to Fairland’s schools, parks, and neighborhood communities.
Fairland Recreational Park – The area’s flagship outdoor destination, offering fields, courts, trails, and picnic areas for community use.
Paint Branch Stream Valley Park – A natural corridor that provides miles of trails, wildlife viewing, and peaceful outdoor spaces for walking and cycling.
Burtonsville Commercial District – Located just north of Fairland, this district offers additional shopping, dining, and grocery options, making it a frequent stop for residents.
Colesville District – A nearby community that shares access to parks, retail centers, and commuter routes, enhancing Fairland’s local connectivity.
Fairland, MD in the Washington Metropolitan Area, 2025
Nestled within Montgomery County, Fairland, Maryland is an esteemed suburban enclave firmly integrated into the Washington–Arlington–Alexandria metropolitan area (the Washington MSA). This region is one of the nation’s most vibrant, defined by proximity to the capital, highly educated residents, and robust employment opportunities. As of 2025, Fairland’s population is estimated at 26,564, reflecting a steady 0.73% annual growth rate since the 2020 census.
The community blends demographic diversity with economic stability. The median household income is approximately $87,900, while median home values hover around $440,800, aligning with broader suburban real estate trends across Montgomery County. A typical commute time of about 36 minutes highlights Fairland’s role as a commuter-friendly suburb, offering residents easy access to jobs in government, healthcare, professional services, and technology hubs throughout the Washington metro area.
Fairland’s compact size, just under 5 square miles, creates a dense yet distinctly residential character, with a population density of about 5,300 people per square mile. Demographically, the area is richly diverse: a majority identify as Black or African American, followed by Asian, Hispanic, and White residents, giving the community a multicultural vibrancy that mirrors the broader Washington metropolitan region.
In 2025, Fairland stands as a dynamic suburban community: modest in scale yet deeply tied to the economic and cultural fabric of the nation’s capital. Its stable growth, strong middle-income profile, and unique diversity secure its place as an integral part of one of America’s most prosperous metropolitan areas.