Cost of Living in Allegany County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Allegany County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Allegany County ranks #1,621 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 48%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Allegany County, Maryland
Allegany's affordability advantage
At 16.4%, Allegany County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national benchmark and Maryland's 18.3% state average, making it one of the most affordable rental markets in the region. Residents here spend significantly less of their paychecks on housing compared to their national counterparts, where the median household income of $74,755 is 30% higher than Allegany's $57,393.
Best value in Maryland
Allegany County ranks among Maryland's most affordable places to rent, with a median rent of just $786 per month—44% cheaper than the state average of $1,415. This exceptional affordability makes Allegany a standout for budget-conscious renters across Maryland.
Affordable haven vs neighbors
Allegany's $786 median rent is significantly lower than nearby Caroline County ($1,070) and Cecil County ($1,367), though both counties offer stronger median incomes. For renters prioritizing low housing costs over higher wages, Allegany remains the region's most accessible option.
Housing costs in Allegany
Renters spend $786 monthly while homeowners pay $830 for mortgages on a median home valued at $149,200—among the lowest in the state. With a median household income of $57,393, housing consumes just 16.4% of income for renters and 17.4% for owners, leaving more room in the household budget.
Consider Allegany for value
If affordability is your priority, Allegany County delivers the lowest housing costs in Maryland alongside reasonable homeownership opportunities. Compare Allegany's $786 rent and $149,200 median home value to pricier counties like Anne Arundel ($1,990 rent, $450,300 homes) to see real savings.
Cost of Living Advisory: Allegany County
Affordability Verdict
Allegany County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $786/month representing approximately 16.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 29.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Allegany County is $786/month, while owner costs run $830/month. Renting saves approximately $44/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,571/year. With a median household income of $57,393, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Allegany County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Garrett County where rent averages $710/month, Allegany County is approximately 11% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Allegany County
Rent Burden
16.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,339
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Allegany County
Median home value is $149,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,191 vs. your max of $1,339.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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