Best counties to live in Maryland
More counties in the United States experienced population growth in the last year, according to the latest Census data, even as pandemic-related moving trends begin to normalize.
Counties in the South continued to experience growth, particularly in Florida, where 96% of its 67 counties gained new residents. Polk County, Florida, a suburb of Orlando, added the most, with 26,000 people moving there in 2023.
Meanwhile, counties in the Midwest and Northeast continued to lose population, but at slower rates than the year before. Some of the biggest losses were in counties home to large cities, including Cook County, Illinois (home of Chicago) and the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens in New York.
Many counties are experiencing growth due to their job opportunities, education, or relatively affordable housing costs. Others are favored for their historic or well-designed downtowns or access to cultural opportunities.
Stacker compiled a list of the best counties to live in Maryland using rankings from Niche. Niche ranks counties by various factors including public schools, educational attainment, cost of living, and housing.
Keep reading to see if your county made the list.
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#23. Caroline County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: Not ranked
– Population: 33,320
– Median household income: $65,326
– Median home value: $258,800 (72% own)
– Median rent: $1,074 (28% rent)
– Top public schools: Colonel Richardson High School (grade B+), Denton Elementary School (grade B), Ridgely Elementary School (grade B)
– Top private schools: SMITHSON’S CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (grade unavailable)
– Top places: Denton (grade B minus), Federalsburg (grade C+), Ridgely (grade C+)
About
Caroline County rests on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, a landscape of flat fields, winding rivers, and small crossroads towns. Its history is tied to agriculture and trade, with deep connections to the land shaping generations of community life. Courthouse towns and quiet villages anchor the county with a sense of steadiness and local pride.
Life here moves at a rural rhythm, defined by school gatherings, fairs, and traditions passed through families. The Choptank River and surrounding countryside provide both livelihood and recreation. Caroline County endures as a place where simplicity, heritage, and community remain closely bound.
Where is Caroline County?
Caroline County is on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, bordered by Queen Anne’s County to the north and Dorchester County to the south. It spans about 320 square miles and is one of the few counties in the state without direct access to the Chesapeake Bay. The county seat, Denton, lies along the Choptank River near the county’s center.
Other communities include Federalsburg close to the Delaware border and Ridgely in the northern section. Caroline County is about 65 miles southeast of Baltimore and roughly 100 miles from Washington, D.C. Its landscape features farmland, river valleys, and small towns that highlight its rural setting.
#22. Dorchester County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: Not ranked
– Population: 32,557
– Median household income: $57,490
– Median home value: $226,000 (68% own)
– Median rent: $968 (32% rent)
– Top public schools: South Dorchester School (grade B), Warwick Elementary School (grade B minus), North Dorchester High School (grade B minus)
– Top private schools: Countryside Christian School (grade unavailable), Open Bible Academy (grade unavailable), Cambridge Christian Academy (grade unavailable)
– Top places: Algonquin (grade C+), Cambridge (grade C), Hurlock (grade B minus)
About
Dorchester County stretches across Maryland’s Eastern Shore, its identity shaped by the Chesapeake Bay and winding waterways. Marshes, rivers, and coastal landscapes have long supported fishing, crabbing, and oystering, forming the backbone of community life. Cambridge, the county seat, reflects this heritage while also carrying the memory of Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad.
Local festivals, watermen traditions, and historic landmarks tie residents to both land and sea. Bird sanctuaries and wide marshlands highlight the natural richness that defines the region. Dorchester County stands as a place where history, water, and community spirit flow together.
Where is Dorchester County?
Dorchester County is located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, bordered by Caroline County to the north and the Chesapeake Bay to the west. It covers about 980 square miles, much of it made up of wetlands, rivers, and tidal marshes. The county seat, Cambridge, sits along the Choptank River and serves as one of the oldest colonial towns in the state.
Other communities include Hurlock to the north and Church Creek to the south near Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. Dorchester County lies about 60 miles southeast of Annapolis and 90 miles from Washington, D.C. Its geography is defined by extensive shoreline, low-lying farmlands, and waterways that shape both its history and economy.
#21. Somerset County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: Not ranked
– Population: 24,672
– Median household income: $52,149
– Median home value: $157,200 (68% own)
– Median rent: $934 (32% rent)
– Top public schools: Princess Anne Elementary School (grade B), Crisfield Academy & High School (grade B minus), Deal Island School (grade C+)
– Top private schools: Holly Grove Christian School (grade B+), Well Watered Wells Leadership Academy (grade unavailable)
– Top places: Crisfield (grade B minus), Princess Anne (grade C+), Eden (grade C minus)
About
Somerset County, the southernmost county in Maryland, is defined by its tidal marshes, creeks, and long history along the Chesapeake Bay. Its earliest settlements were tied to fishing, farming, and trade, leaving behind traditions that still anchor its small towns and villages. Princess Anne, the county seat, reflects both colonial heritage and the rhythms of rural life.
Watermen continue to harvest crabs and oysters, while community gatherings and festivals celebrate local identity. The county’s landscapes of wetlands and open water provide both challenges and enduring beauty. Somerset County remains a place where history, livelihood, and natural setting are deeply intertwined.
Where is Somerset County?
Somerset County is in the southernmost part of Maryland’s Eastern Shore, bordered by the Chesapeake Bay to the west and the Pocomoke River to the east. It covers about 610 square miles, including both mainland and several islands such as Smith Island in the bay. The county seat, Princess Anne, is located inland along U.S. Route 13.
Other communities include Crisfield on Tangier Sound and Deal Island to the northwest. Somerset County is about 120 miles southeast of Washington, D.C., and 30 miles south of Salisbury. Its geography features tidal marshes, coastal plains, and fishing villages that emphasize its maritime heritage.
#20. Cecil County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: Not ranked
– Population: 103,876
– Median household income: $86,869
– Median home value: $292,500 (75% own)
– Median rent: $1,322 (25% rent)
– Top public schools: Bohemia Manor High School (grade B), Elkton High School (grade B), Charlestown Elementary School (grade B)
– Top private schools: West Nottingham Academy (grade A+), The Tome School (grade A minus), Tri-State Christian Academy (grade C+)
– Top places: North East (grade B), Rising Sun (grade B minus), Charlestown (grade B minus)
About
Cecil County sits at Maryland’s northeastern corner, where the Chesapeake Bay meets rolling farmland and historic crossroads. Its past is tied to trade routes, farming, and maritime life, with towns that once served as vital stops between larger cities. Today, the county blends rural traditions with its role as a gateway between Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania.
Waterways like the Elk and Sassafras Rivers shape recreation and commerce, while historic districts and fairs sustain local pride. Equine farms, open fields, and thriving small towns highlight the diversity of its landscape. Cecil County stands as a region where crossroads heritage and natural beauty continue to guide community life.
Where is Cecil County?
Cecil County sits in the northeastern corner of Maryland, bordered by Pennsylvania to the north and Delaware to the east. It covers about 420 square miles, stretching from the head of the Chesapeake Bay westward to the rolling Piedmont hills. The county seat, Elkton, is located near the Delaware state line along the Elk River.
Other towns include North East on the bay and Perryville at the Susquehanna River’s mouth. Cecil County is about 50 miles northeast of Baltimore and 55 miles southwest of Philadelphia. Its landscape combines waterfront areas, rural farmland, and wooded hills, reflecting its position between the bay and the Appalachian foothills.
#19. Allegany County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: Not ranked
– Population: 68,161
– Median household income: $55,248
– Median home value: $143,300 (70% own)
– Median rent: $743 (30% rent)
– Top public schools: Frost Elementary School (grade B), Beall Elementary School (grade B), West Side Elementary School (grade B)
– Top private schools: Bishop Walsh School (grade A minus), Calvary Christian Academy (grade C+), Lighthouse Christian Academy (grade C minus)
– Top places: La Vale (grade A minus), Bel Air (grade B+), Frostburg (grade B+)
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#18. Garrett County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: Not ranked
– Population: 28,856
– Median household income: $64,447
– Median home value: $220,100 (80% own)
– Median rent: $681 (20% rent)
– Top public schools: Swan Meadow School (grade A minus), Northern Garrett High School (grade B), Northern Middle School (grade B minus)
– Top private schools: Bittinger Mennonite School (grade unavailable), Swanton Mennonite Fellowship School (grade unavailable), Casselman Valley School (grade unavailable)
– Top places: Oakland (grade B), Mountain Lake Park (grade C+), Loch Lynn Heights (grade B minus)
#17. Prince George’s County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 1,287
– Population: 957,189
– Median household income: $97,935
– Median home value: $380,500 (62% own)
– Median rent: $1,713 (38% rent)
– Top public schools: Academy of Health Sciences at PGCC (grade A+), Eleanor Roosevelt High School (grade A), Glenarden Woods Elementary School (grade B+)
– Top private schools: DeMatha Catholic High School (grade A), Belair Baptist Christian Academy (grade A), New Hope Academy (grade A)
– Top places: University Park (grade A+), Fairwood (grade A), Berwyn Heights (grade A minus)
#16. Washington County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 1,071
– Population: 154,645
– Median household income: $73,017
– Median home value: $262,400 (65% own)
– Median rent: $1,049 (35% rent)
– Top public schools: Barbara Ingram School for the Arts (grade A), Fountaindale Elementary School (grade A minus), Williamsport Elementary School (grade A minus)
– Top private schools: Saint James School (grade A+), Global Vision Christian School Broadfording (grade A), Highland View Academy (grade A minus)
– Top places: St. James (grade A minus), Smithsburg (grade B+), Robinwood (grade B+)
#15. Kent County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 913
– Population: 19,289
– Median household income: $71,635
– Median home value: $291,900 (70% own)
– Median rent: $1,072 (30% rent)
– Top public schools: Rock Hall Elementary School (grade B minus), H.H. Garnett Elementary School (grade B minus), Kent County High School (grade B minus)
– Top private schools: Chestertown Christian Academy (grade C minus), Kent School (grade unavailable), Radcliffe Creek School (grade unavailable)
– Top places: Chestertown (grade B), Tolchester (grade B+), Galena (grade B+)
#14. Charles County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 763
– Population: 167,035
– Median household income: $116,882
– Median home value: $382,800 (80% own)
– Median rent: $1,839 (20% rent)
– Top public schools: North Point High School (grade A), La Plata High School (grade A minus), Dr. James Craik Elementary School (grade B+)
– Top private schools: Grace Christian Academy of Maryland (grade A minus), Southern Maryland Christian Academy (grade B), St. Peter’s School (grade A)
– Top places: La Plata (grade B+), Waldorf (grade B), Potomac Heights (grade B minus)
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#13. Queen Anne’s County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 641
– Population: 50,316
– Median household income: $108,332
– Median home value: $421,900 (81% own)
– Median rent: $1,600 (19% rent)
– Top public schools: Kent Island High School (grade A minus), Bayside Elementary School (grade B+), Grasonville Elementary School (grade B+)
– Top private schools: The Gunston School (grade A), Lighthouse Christian Academy (grade unavailable), Wye River Upper School (grade unavailable)
– Top places: Kingstown (grade A minus), Stevensville (grade B+), Centreville (grade B+)
#12. Wicomico County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 584
– Population: 103,815
– Median household income: $69,421
– Median home value: $226,900 (60% own)
– Median rent: $1,190 (40% rent)
– Top public schools: North Salisbury Elementary School (grade A minus), James M. Bennett High School (grade B+), Parkside High School (grade B+)
– Top private schools: The Salisbury School (grade A+), Faith Baptist School (grade A minus), Salisbury Christian School (grade B)
– Top places: Fruitland (grade B+), Salisbury (grade B minus), Delmar (grade B minus)
#11. Talbot County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 452
– Population: 37,663
– Median household income: $81,667
– Median home value: $382,000 (73% own)
– Median rent: $1,204 (27% rent)
– Top public schools: White Marsh Elementary School (grade B), Easton High School (grade B), St. Michaels Elementary School (grade B)
– Top private schools: Saints Peter & Paul High School (grade A), Chesapeake Christian School (grade B minus), Ss. Peter & Paul Elementary School (grade unavailable)
– Top places: Easton (grade A minus), St. Michaels (grade B+), Oxford (grade B)
#10. Carroll County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 351
– Population: 173,225
– Median household income: $111,672
– Median home value: $390,200 (83% own)
– Median rent: $1,283 (17% rent)
– Top public schools: Century High School (grade A), Liberty High School (grade A), Freedom District Elementary School (grade A)
– Top private schools: Gerstell Academy (grade A), Carroll Christian Schools (grade B), Silver Oak Academy (grade B minus)
– Top places: Sykesville (grade A), Eldersburg (grade A), Hampstead (grade A minus)
#9. St. Mary’s County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 336
– Population: 113,814
– Median household income: $113,668
– Median home value: $376,900 (72% own)
– Median rent: $1,595 (28% rent)
– Top public schools: Chesapeake Charter School (grade A minus), Lexington Park Elementary School (grade A minus), Leonardtown High School (grade A minus)
– Top private schools: St. Mary’s Ryken High School (grade A), The King’s Christian Academy (grade B+), St. John’s Elementary School (grade unavailable)
– Top places: California (grade A), Leonardtown (grade A), Lexington Park (grade B+)
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#8. Worcester County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 324
– Population: 52,827
– Median household income: $76,689
– Median home value: $310,300 (77% own)
– Median rent: $1,144 (23% rent)
– Top public schools: Berlin Intermediate School (grade A), Ocean City Elementary School (grade A), Snow Hill High School (grade A)
– Top private schools: Worcester Preparatory School (grade A+), Seaside Christian Academy (grade unavailable)
– Top places: Berlin (grade A minus), Ocean City (grade A minus), Pocomoke City (grade B+)
#7. Calvert County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 269
– Population: 93,244
– Median household income: $128,078
– Median home value: $418,900 (86% own)
– Median rent: $1,589 (14% rent)
– Top public schools: Huntingtown High School (grade A), Northern High School (grade A minus), Mount Harmony Elementary School (grade A minus)
– Top private schools: The Calverton School (grade A+), Cardinal Hickey Academy (grade A), Our Lady Star of the Sea School (grade unavailable)
– Top places: Dunkirk (grade A), Chesapeake Beach (grade A), Huntingtown (grade A minus)
#6. Harford County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 267
– Population: 261,059
– Median household income: $106,417
– Median home value: $351,100 (80% own)
– Median rent: $1,475 (20% rent)
– Top public schools: Harford Technical High School (grade A), Patterson Mill High School (grade A), Bel Air High School (grade A minus)
– Top private schools: Grace Classical Academy (grade A), The John Carroll School (grade A minus), New Covenant Christian School (grade B+)
– Top places: Pleasant Hills (grade A), Fallston (grade A), Havre de Grace (grade A)
#5. Baltimore County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 157
– Population: 850,737
– Median household income: $88,157
– Median home value: $310,800 (67% own)
– Median rent: $1,479 (33% rent)
– Top public schools: Eastern Technical High School (grade A+), Western School of Technology & Environmental Science (grade A), George W. Carver Center for Arts & Technology (grade A)
– Top private schools: St. Timothy’s School (grade A+), McDonogh School (grade A+), The Park School of Baltimore (grade A+)
– Top places: Lutherville (grade A+), Towson (grade A+), Timonium (grade A+)
#4. Anne Arundel County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 119
– Population: 588,109
– Median household income: $116,009
– Median home value: $432,000 (75% own)
– Median rent: $1,908 (25% rent)
– Top public schools: Severna Park High School (grade A+), Broadneck High School (grade A), South River High School (grade A)
– Top private schools: Key School (grade A+), Severn School (grade A+), Indian Creek School (grade A+)
– Top places: Crofton (grade A+), Odenton (grade A), Arnold (grade A)
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#3. Frederick County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 77
– Population: 273,829
– Median household income: $115,724
– Median home value: $412,500 (76% own)
– Median rent: $1,633 (24% rent)
– Top public schools: Urbana High School (grade A+), Oakdale High School (grade A), Sugarloaf Elementary School (grade A)
– Top private schools: Saint John’s Catholic Prep (grade A+), Friends Meeting School (grade A), New Life Christian School (grade B+)
– Top places: Urbana (grade A+), Monrovia (grade A+), Spring Ridge (grade A+)
#2. Montgomery County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 13
– Population: 1,056,910
– Median household income: $125,583
– Median home value: $588,900 (66% own)
– Median rent: $1,957 (34% rent)
– Top public schools: Poolesville High School (grade A+), Walt Whitman High School (grade A+), Winston Churchill High School (grade A+)
– Top private schools: Holton-Arms School (grade A+), Landon School (grade A+), Georgetown Preparatory School (grade A+)
– Top places: North Bethesda (grade A+), North Potomac (grade A+), South Kensington (grade A+)
#1. Howard County, Maryland
– Overall Rank: 1
– Population: 332,011
– Median household income: $140,971
– Median home value: $551,300 (72% own)
– Median rent: $1,920 (28% rent)
– Top public schools: River Hill High School (grade A+), Marriotts Ridge High School (grade A+), Centennial High School (grade A+)
– Top private schools: Glenelg Country School (grade A+), Chapelgate Christian Academy (grade A), Fusion Academy Columbia (grade B)
– Top places: Ellicott City (grade A+), Fulton (grade A+), Columbia (grade A+)
This story features data reporting and writing by Elena Cox and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 50 states.
By Stacker
