Cost of Living in Calvert County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Calvert County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Calvert County ranks #669 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 21%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Calvert County, Maryland
Calvert's exceptional affordability ratio
Calvert County achieves the best rent-to-income ratio in Maryland at just 15.5%, well below the state average of 18.3% and national benchmarks. The county's strong median household income of $132,059—77% above the national average—combined with moderate rents creates an ideal affordability picture.
Maryland's most balanced market
Calvert County leads Maryland in housing affordability when income is factored in, despite housing costs that include a $1,701 median rent and $440,200 median home value. The county's high earner base makes even premium prices feel accessible.
High-income advantage clear
Calvert's $1,701 rent is higher than nearby Caroline County ($1,070) and Cecil County ($1,367), yet Calvert's 15.5% rent-to-income ratio beats both counties due to significantly higher median income ($132,059 vs. $66,368 and $91,146). Calvert attracts affluent households who can comfortably afford premium housing.
Calvert's premium-income profile
Renters pay $1,701 monthly while homeowners carry $2,031 mortgage payments on homes averaging $440,200 in value—among the highest in the state. Yet with a median household income of $132,059, housing consumes just 15.5% for renters and 18.4% for owners, providing substantial financial cushion.
Calvert for affluent families
Calvert County is ideal for high-income households ($120,000+) seeking excellent schools, waterfront living, and a strong sense of community. The county's exceptional income-to-housing ratio and $440,200 median home value deliver luxury suburban living without the affordability squeeze seen in lower-income areas.
Cost of Living Advisory: Calvert County
Affordability Verdict
Calvert County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,701/month representing approximately 15.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Calvert County is $1,701/month, while owner costs run $2,031/month. Renting saves approximately $330/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $68,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $87,043/year. With a median household income of $132,059, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Calvert County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Maryland, Calvert County is less affordable than Prince George's County by roughly 3% ($1,701/mo vs $1,761/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Calvert County
Rent Burden
15.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$3,081
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.5%
of gross income
The median home in Calvert County may be a stretch
Median home value is $440,200. Estimated monthly cost: $3,514 vs. your max of $3,081.
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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