One Neighborhood, Two ZIP Codes — Bethesda & Kensington
2025 market data: Bright MLS closed sales. Detached homes only. Includes new construction.
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Parkwood is a single neighborhood that straddles the Bethesda–Kensington ZIP code line, with some homes carrying Bethesda (20814) addresses and others Kensington (20895). Developed in the late 1940s near Rock Creek Park, the community encompasses roughly 350 homes in the area bounded by Cedar Lane and Parkwood Drive to the east, Westbrook Lane to the north, and Connecticut Avenue to the west. The dividing line between the two ZIP codes runs just west of Saul Road, but the entire subdivision is represented by a single community group—the Parkwood Residents Association (PRA)—and functions as one cohesive neighborhood.
The housing stock consists primarily of brick colonials, Cape Cods, and ramblers from the original development, many of which have been expanded or renovated over the decades. In recent years, new construction has become a significant part of the market as builders replace original homes with larger Craftsman and contemporary residences. Generous lot sizes and mature landscaping give the neighborhood a settled, verdant character. A knowledgeable Realtor can help buyers navigate the range of conditions and price points found throughout the community.
What sets Parkwood apart is its combination of a tucked-away residential feel with genuine proximity to everything. Residents are minutes from downtown Bethesda, NIH, Walter Reed, and the Grosvenor–Strathmore Metro station, while Rock Creek Park—one of the region's great natural assets—sits right at the neighborhood's edge. As a real estate agent who works this area, we find buyers are drawn to that balance of convenience and calm. Note that Kensington Estates is a separate community directly north of Parkwood beyond Westbrook Lane, with its own civic association.
Despite spanning two ZIP codes, Parkwood operates as a single community through the voluntary Parkwood Residents Association (PRA). There is no mandatory HOA—the PRA is a civic association that facilitates community events, information sharing, and advocacy on neighborhood issues. Residents on both sides of the Bethesda–Kensington line participate together. And with Rock Creek Park running along the neighborhood's edge, everyone shares access to miles of hiking and biking trails just steps from home.
Parkwood is zoned for Kensington-Parkwood Elementary School, North Bethesda Middle School, and Walter Johnson High School. School boundaries are subject to change. For current school assignments, visit the MCPS School Assignment Tool. For our analysis of proposed boundary changes, read MCPS School Boundary Lines Are Moving.
Always verify assignments with MCPS, as boundaries can change.
Whether you're looking to buy or sell in Parkwood, we know this community well. As your local Bethesda Realtor, let's talk about your goals.
Information herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. School assignments are subject to change — verify current boundaries with MCPS. Neighborhood descriptions and boundaries are approximate.