Cost of Living in Frederick County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Frederick County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Frederick County, Maryland
Frederick offers genuine rent relief
Frederick County residents dedicate just 17.0% of income to rent—well below the national average and among Maryland's best ratios—while earning a strong median income of $120,458. This combination means Frederick renters enjoy both lower costs and higher paychecks than the typical American household.
Frederick leads Maryland on affordability
With a 17.0% rent-to-income ratio, Frederick beats Maryland's state average of 18.3% and ranks among the county's most affordable options for renters. The county's median rent of $1,706 runs $291 above the state average, but strong local incomes make this manageable.
Balanced growth town north of Baltimore
Frederick's median rent of $1,706 falls between rural Garrett ($710) and wealthy Howard County ($2,038), reflecting its role as a mid-sized regional hub. Its 17.0% rent ratio edges out nearby Harford County ($16.8%) but stays ahead of Montgomery ($18.9%), offering smart positioning for job seekers and families.
Housing stays below one-third of income
Renters pay $1,706 monthly while homeowners spend $2,033—both well-balanced against the $120,458 median income. Combined housing costs hover around 30%, leaving healthy room for savings and discretionary spending.
Frederick balances growth and affordability
Frederick County delivers Maryland's best rent-to-income ratio among affluent counties, making it ideal for professionals seeking suburban living without D.C. price tags. Test your relocation math: Frederick's 17.0% ratio beats Charles ($18.9%) and Montgomery ($18.9%) while keeping you close to both Baltimore and Washington corridors.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Frederick County
Rent Burden
17.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,811
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.3%
of gross income
The median home in Frederick County may be a stretch
Median home value is $437,700. Estimated monthly cost: $3,494 vs. your max of $2,811.
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.