Figuring out where to shop for groceries is one of the first real-life adjustments when moving off campus at the University of Maryland. Between meal prepping, late-night snacks and stocking a shared apartment kitchen, having the right grocery store nearby can make your life a lot easier.
Luckily, students at the University of Maryland have several solid grocery options within a short drive or bus ride from campus. Some are:
Here is a breakdown of where UMD students actually shop for groceries in College Park and nearby areas.
Budget-Friendly
1. Lidl
Address: 8601 Baltimore Avenue
Distance from campus: 2-minute drive
Lidl is a go-to for budget-conscious students. It is known for low prices and surprisingly high-quality, store-brand products.
This is where students usually go for:
- Weekly grocery stock-ups
- Fresh produce at lower prices
- Affordable snacks and pantry items
- Meal prep shopping
Lidl is especially popular among students living off campus who are trying to stretch their budget.
2. Aldi
Address: 8904 62nd Avenue
Distance from campus: 6-minute drive
Aldi is another major budget grocery option for students near College Park.
It is similar to Lidl but with a slightly smaller footprint and a very streamlined shopping experience. Students like Aldi for its efficiency and low-cost essentials.
Common items include:
- Fresh produce
- Pasta, rice and pantry staples
- Frozen meals
- Affordable snacks
Specialty Items
3. Whole Foods
Address: 6621-B Baltimore Avenue
Distance from campus: 6-minute drive
Whole Foods Market is the most premium grocery option on this list. While not a weekly stop for most students, it is popular for specific items and healthier food choices.
Students usually go here for:
- Organic produce
- Prepared foods and hot bar meals
- Specialty health items
- Smoothies and grab-and-go meals
It is often used for convenience of specific dietary needs rather than full grocery hauls.
4. MOM’s Organic Market
Address: 9801 Rhode Island Avenue
Distance from campus: 7-minute drive
MOM’s Organic Market is one of the most unique specialty grocery stores near College Park, especially for students looking for organic foods and harder-to-find dietary items.
Unlike traditional grocery stores, MOM’s focuses heavily on organic products, sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. The store carries a wide range of specialty items including organic produce, vegetarian and vegan foods, gluten-free products and eco-friendly household goods.
This store is especially popular among students who:
- Follow vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets
- Prefer organic or locally sourced foods
- Want specialty snacks and wellness items
- Need natural cleaning or personal care products
While prices tend to be higher than budget stores like Aldi or Lidl, many students visit MOM’s occasionally for specific items rather than doing full weekly grocery runs.
Quick Weekly Restocks
5. Trader Joe’s
Address: 4429 Calvert Road
Distance from campus: 10-minute walk
Trader Joe’s is a student favorite for higher quality snacks and easy meal options.
While it is still slightly more expensive than Aldi or Lidl, it is popular for its unique products and convenience-focused food items.
Students often shop here for:
- Frozen meals
- Specialty snacks
- Affordable pre-made items
- Seasonal treats
It is a common “treat yourself” grocery run for UMD students.
6. Target
Address: 3500 East-West Highway
Distance from campus: 6-minute drive
Target is one of the most popular grocery stops for UMD students because it combines food, household essentials and convenience in one place.
Students typically come here for:
- Quick grocery runs
- Frozen meals and snacks
- Dorm or apartment essentials
- Late restocks during the week
It is especially useful for students who do not want to make multiple stops for groceries and supplies.
Tips for Grocery Shopping Near Campus
- Go early in the day to avoid crowds on weekends
- Use group grocery runs to save on transportation
- Mix budget stores with specialty stores to save money
- Keep a running list to avoid frequent small trips
Living near College Park means UMD students have access to a wide range of grocery stores within a short distance. Whether you are shopping on a budget or looking for specialty items, there is an option that fits every student’s lifestyle.
The key is not finding one perfect store, but building a routine that works for your schedule, budget and eating habits.
If you have any further questions about the College Park lifestyle, feel free to contact our leasing team!
Allison
Allison is a Property Marketing Intern for Rambler College Park. She's a student at the University of Maryland, majoring in Marketing and Management. Her favorite drink to order is a vanilla iced latte!
Published On: May 11, 2026
Last Updated On: May 14, 2026