We moved from Kensington (outside of Washington, DC) to Mt. Airy when I was 10. I grew up there for the most part and When DH and I got married 15 years ago, we moved to Frederick. My parents still live w/in the town limits. Mt. Airy to me still has that small town feel but has changed alot. When I moved there, we only had McDonalds, Pizza Hut and 2 grocery stores. They now have 3 grocery stores, tons of restaurants and a
Walmart. To do any real shopping, you still need to go to Frederick or Columbia. One thing to consider is that while the downtown of Mt Airy is small, it does reach out into Carroll, Howard, Montgomery and Frederick Counties. It is exactly 2 miles from my parents house to the my MIL's house, yet DH and I went to different schools. I think it's a fantastic place to raise a family and regret not moving back when we were looking to buy.
As far as land and price, the farther west and north you go, the more you will get for you money. The housing prices really took a hit in this area, some more than others. There are good deals to be found.
Commuting sucks wherever you live in Maryland. I-70 is definitely better than I-270 or I-95. One thing to consider is if your DH will be in Annapolis most of the time or will he be traveling more around the state. My DH works in Tyson's Corner, VA (south of Reston) and it takes him a little over an hour w/out traffic. However, we could never afford for us to live closer to his work. We wouldn't have the house we have now.
As far as schools go, anywhere you go in Maryland will have great schools. Education Week has ranked Maryland schools #1 for 4 straight years in a row. We have been happy w/school sytem. I have a 3rd grader right now and my youngest will start kindergarten next year.
I hope this helps you. If you have anymore ?'s, let me know. I hope you like living in Maryland.