Cost of Living in Carroll County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Carroll County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Carroll County, Maryland
Carroll County's strong affordability
Carroll County boasts Maryland's second-best rent-to-income ratio at 14.2%, significantly below the state average of 18.3% and well above national affordability standards. The county's median household income of $115,876—55% above the national median—makes housing feel genuinely accessible despite solid absolute prices.
Top-tier Maryland value
Carroll County ranks among Maryland's best for affordability, with a 14.2% rent-to-income ratio that reflects strong household incomes supporting moderate housing costs. Only Calvert County (15.5%) surpasses Carroll in the affordability rankings statewide.
Value among affluent suburbs
Carroll's $1,370 median rent is lower than Anne Arundel ($1,990) and Baltimore County ($1,566), while homes at $406,400 offer strong value compared to Anne Arundel's $450,300. The county delivers suburban quality comparable to its neighbors at meaningfully lower prices.
Carroll's healthy balance
Renters pay $1,370 monthly while homeowners carry $1,920 mortgage payments on homes averaging $406,400 in value—solid suburban pricing. With a median household income of $115,876, housing consumes just 14.2% for renters and 19.9% for owners, leaving substantial room for savings and other expenses.
Carroll for balanced families
Carroll County suits professionals earning $100,000–$130,000 seeking top-tier schools and strong community without Anne Arundel's premium prices. The county's 14.2% rent-to-income ratio and $406,400 median homes offer excellent value for affluent families prioritizing financial balance.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Carroll County
Rent Burden
14.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,704
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.9%
of gross income
The median home in Carroll County may be a stretch
Median home value is $406,400. Estimated monthly cost: $3,244 vs. your max of $2,704.
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.