Westminster, MD

Westminster is a town in Carroll County, Maryland, United States. The population was 2,812 at the 2010 census. It is included in the Baltimore- Columbia- Towson metropolitan area.

Westminster was founded in 1792 and named for Westminster Abbey in London. The town was initially part of Prince George's County but became part of Carroll County when that county was formed in 1796. The town's early economy was based on agriculture and milling; by the mid-19th century, however, it had become an industrial center thanks to its location on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O). Manufacturing continued to play a significant role in Westminster's economy through the 20th century; by 2000, however, most of these businesses had closed or moved out of town. Today, Westminster is primarily a residential community with a small commercial district along Route 40.

The history of real estate development in Westminster can be divided into three periods: pre-railroad period (1792–1850), railroad period (1850–1914), and post-railroad period (since 1914). During the pre-railroad period, land ownership patterns were largely determined by inheritance or purchase from private individuals; as a result, development tended to be concentrated around churches and other important civic institutions. In contrast, after 1850 land became increasingly available for sale as a result of agricultural improvements made possible by the railroad; this led to more widespread development throughout the townscape. Finally, since 1914 there has been little new housing construction due to zoning regulations that have kept most properties within their original boundaries.

One factor that has influenced real estate prices throughout Westminster's history has been population growth; as more people moved into town during each successive period, property values increased correspondingly. Another factor has been inflation; as prices have risen faster than wages over time, homeownership rates have decreased while rental rates have increased. In recent years there has also been an increase in homebuyers who are not originally from Carroll County; this trend is likely attributable to low interest rates and increasing home values across much of Maryland