Is Pleasant Run safe?
Gaithersburg, Maryland · safety score updated nightly
Yes — it is one of the safer places in the metro to walk around.
VibeLoco rates Pleasant Run as “Go”.
Gogo's take on Pleasant Run
“Go. Pleasant Run is a calm, established residential enclave within Gaithersburg that offers a secure and low-stress environment for visitors. Violent crime is uncommon, though typical suburban property precautions like locking vehicles are advised. It is best suited for quiet residential stays or as a base to explore Montgomery County.”
Recent local coverage focuses heavily on the nearby Lakeforest Mall master redevelopment plan, bringing anticipated long-term economic revitalization and mixed-use infrastructure to the surrounding district.
About the area
Pleasant Run is a primarily residential neighborhood in Gaithersburg, Maryland, characterized by townhome clusters, mature greenery, and suburban cul-de-sacs. It sits in close proximity to major commuter routes like I-270 and the commercial corridors of Gaithersburg and Montgomery Village. The community is predominantly occupied by families and working professionals commuting across the DC metro area.
- Suburban Residential
- Family-Friendly
- Quiet
- Tree-Lined
Walking and biking in Pleasant Run
Walk score: 46/100 · Bike score: 52/100
While dedicated bike lanes within the neighborhood are limited, nearby multi-use paths connect toward Bohrer Park and the broader Seneca Creek Trail network.
Reasons to go, and reasons to think twice
Pros
- Low violent crime rates well below state and national metropolitan averages
- Strong Montgomery County public services, emergency response times, and well-maintained public infrastructure
- High household median incomes and stable occupancy rates supporting neighborhood stability
- Quiet, family-oriented residential streets with low through-traffic
Cons
- Occasional opportunistic property crimes such as vehicle break-ins and package thefts
- Car dependency for most dining, retail, and major entertainment options
- Proximity to higher-traffic commercial arteries along Russell Avenue and Montgomery Village Avenue
Homelessness: Visible homelessness is not a notable presence within the residential streets of Pleasant Run, though occasional unhoused individuals may be seen near major bus stops along Route 355 or commercial strip centers nearby.
What Pleasant Run is like at each time of day
- Morning · 5a – 11a
- Peaceful and active with residents walking dogs, exercising, and departing on morning commutes.
- Afternoon · 11a – 5p
- Quiet and safe, with school buses dropping off children and light local traffic.
- Evening · 5p – 10p
- Calm atmosphere as families return home; street lighting is sufficient along primary residential lanes.
- Late night · 10p – 5a
- Very low foot traffic and quiet; remains generally safe, though standard suburban awareness is recommended.
Transit, parking and getting around
Montgomery County Ride On buses (such as Route 55 and 58) serve the perimeter corridors, offering direct connections to the Shady Grove Metro Station (Red Line) roughly 4 miles south, as well as the Gaithersburg MARC commuter rail station.
Parking is straightforward, primarily consisting of assigned townhome spaces, private driveways, and free on-street curbside parking without meters.
Things to do in Pleasant Run
- Explore scenic walking trails, fishing, and boating at nearby Seneca Creek State Park
- Enjoy the miniature golf course, skate park, and community center amenities at Bohrer Park
- Visit Olde Towne Gaithersburg for historic architecture, local dining, and the Gaithersburg Community Museum
Local favorites
- Taco Bar El Guero · Mexican Restaurant · 4.6★ (1650)Beloved hidden-gem counter service inside an unassuming spot serving authentic street tacos and tortas.
- Dogfish Head Alehouse · Brewpub / American · 4.4★ (2100)Popular neighborhood tavern serving wood-grilled comfort foods alongside specialty craft beers on tap.
- Hershey's Restaurant · American Traditional · 4.3★ (820)Longstanding local staple offering hearty fried chicken, classic steaks, and homestyle sides in a rustic setting.
Scores are safety-driven — recent reported crime and local news plus Census income, poverty, housing, education, household and access data — refreshed nightly. Walk and bike scores are shown separately and do not affect the safety score. A guide, not a guarantee — conditions change street to street.