Cost of Living in Anne Arundel County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Anne Arundel County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Anne Arundel County ranks #2,034 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 35%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Anne Arundel County, Maryland
Anne Arundel's premium housing market
Anne Arundel County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% slightly exceeds Maryland's 18.3% state average, reflecting the county's position as one of the region's pricier housing markets. Despite a strong median household income of $120,324—61% above the national average—residents still dedicate a substantial share to housing costs.
High-income, high-cost equation
Anne Arundel ranks among Maryland's most expensive counties for both renters and owners, with a median rent of $1,990 and median home value of $450,300. The county's robust median income of $120,324 helps offset these costs, but housing remains above the state average.
Premium pricing in the region
Anne Arundel's $1,990 median rent significantly outpaces neighboring Baltimore County ($1,566) and Carroll County ($1,370), positioning it as the region's most expensive rental market. Home values tell a similar story: Anne Arundel's $450,300 median is notably higher than Baltimore County's $330,000.
Anne Arundel's housing snapshot
Renters pay $1,990 monthly while homeowners carry $2,051 mortgage payments on homes averaging $450,300 in value. Despite these high costs, the county's strong median income of $120,324 means housing consumes 19.9% for renters and 20.4% for owners—manageable for higher earners but tight for lower-income households.
Anne Arundel for high earners
Anne Arundel attracts professionals with solid incomes seeking upscale suburban living and strong schools. If you earn $120,000+ and can afford $1,990+ rent or $2,000+ monthly mortgage payments, Anne Arundel's quality of life may justify the premium.
Cost of Living Advisory: Anne Arundel County
Affordability Verdict
Anne Arundel County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,990/month — about 19.8% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Anne Arundel County pay $1,990/month on average, compared to $2,051/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 3%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $79,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $87,900/year. With a median household income of $120,324, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Anne Arundel County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Anne Arundel County sits 5% more expensive than Charles County ($1,897/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Anne Arundel County
Rent Burden
19.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,808
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.5%
of gross income
The median home in Anne Arundel County may be a stretch
Median home value is $450,300. Estimated monthly cost: $3,595 vs. your max of $2,808.
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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