Cost of Living in Caroline County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Caroline County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Caroline County, Maryland
Caroline County's rural affordability
Caroline County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.4% is slightly above Maryland's 18.3% state average but remains affordable compared to urban and premium suburban markets. With a median household income of $66,368 and $1,070 median rent, the county offers accessible housing for working-class families.
Below-average costs, below-average income
Caroline County ranks toward the bottom of Maryland's income distribution but maintains reasonable housing affordability through proportionally low rents at $1,070 per month. The county's 19.4% rent-to-income ratio reflects a balance between modest wages and modest housing costs.
Affordable rural alternative
Caroline's $1,070 median rent is lower than neighboring Cecil County ($1,367) and considerably less than Baltimore County ($1,566) and Anne Arundel ($1,990). However, Caroline's lower median income of $66,368 means residents have fewer overall resources compared to wealthier neighboring counties.
Caroline's working-family reality
Renters pay $1,070 monthly while homeowners pay $1,314 for mortgages on homes averaging $272,400 in value—accessible prices for rural Maryland. With a median household income of $66,368, housing consumes 19.4% for renters and 23.7% for owners, manageable for families with stable employment.
Caroline for rural seekers
Caroline County appeals to families earning $60,000–$80,000 who prioritize low housing costs and rural living over urban amenities. Compare Caroline's $1,070 rents and $272,400 homes to Baltimore City or Anne Arundel to appreciate the county's affordability advantage for budget-conscious relocators.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Caroline County
Rent Burden
19.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,549
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.8%
of gross income
The median home in Caroline County may be a stretch
Median home value is $272,400. Estimated monthly cost: $2,175 vs. your max of $1,549.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.