Cost of Living in Charles County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Charles County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Charles County ranks #1,770 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 44%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Charles County, Maryland
Charles County rents eat 18.9% of income
Charles County residents spend 18.9% of their median household income on rent, slightly above the national average of roughly 18%. With a median household income of $120,592—well above the national median of $74,755—Charles County renters enjoy stronger purchasing power than most Americans, even as rents climb.
Above Maryland's affordability average
Charles County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio places it slightly above Maryland's state average of 18.3%, meaning housing costs consume a touch more of residents' paychecks than typical for the state. However, the county's strong median income of $120,592 keeps it competitive across Maryland's housing landscape.
Pricier than nearby Southern Maryland
Charles County's median rent of $1,897 significantly exceeds nearby Dorchester County ($959) and Garrett County ($710), reflecting its proximity to Washington D.C. and stronger local economic growth. Homebuyers face similar patterns: Charles County's median home value of $402,300 tops most rural neighbors, though it trails affluent Howard County ($576,700).
Income covers both rents and mortgages
Renters pay $1,897 monthly while homeowners spend $2,170 on mortgage costs—both manageable on the county's $120,592 median income. Together, housing consumes roughly 30% of a typical household's gross income, leaving room for other expenses.
Consider Charles for D.C. commuters
If you're weighing relocation, Charles County offers strong income levels and reasonable housing costs compared to closer-in Maryland suburbs. Compare its 18.9% rent ratio against Howard ($16.6%) and Frederick ($17.0%) to find your affordability sweet spot.
Cost of Living Advisory: Charles County
Affordability Verdict
Charles County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,897/month representing approximately 18.9% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Charles County is $1,897/month, while owner costs run $2,170/month. Renting saves approximately $273/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $75,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $93,000/year. With a median household income of $120,592, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Charles County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Maryland, Charles County is less affordable than Anne Arundel County by roughly 5% ($1,897/mo vs $1,990/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Charles County
Rent Burden
18.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,814
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.6%
of gross income
The median home in Charles County may be a stretch
Median home value is $402,300. Estimated monthly cost: $3,212 vs. your max of $2,814.
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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