Cost of Living in Garrett County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Garrett County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Garrett County, Maryland
Garrett County: Maryland's affordability champion
Garrett County residents spend just 12.3% of income on rent—dramatically below the national average and the lowest ratio among all Maryland counties profiled here. At $710 monthly, Garrett rents are less than half the national typical rent, making it exceptionally accessible even on the county's modest $69,031 median income.
Unmatched affordability in rural Maryland
Garrett's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio crushes Maryland's state average of 18.3%, delivering the deepest housing affordability cushion in the state. The county's $710 median rent stands 49.8% below Maryland's state average, making Garrett a hidden gem for budget-conscious renters.
West Maryland's budget sanctuary
Garrett County's $710 median rent undercuts even rural Dorchester ($959) by 26%, while its 12.3% ratio beats every other county profiled. This mountain county offers genuine affordability that reflects lower regional demand and a smaller economic footprint than areas closer to Baltimore and D.C.
Housing becomes truly optional burden
Renters pay just $710 monthly while homeowners spend $874—remarkably low costs on the $69,031 median income, consuming only 12-15% of earnings. This leaves 70%+ of household income available for savings, healthcare, education, and other priorities.
Garrett offers unbeatable housing math
If affordability is your primary concern, Garrett County delivers the lowest rent-to-income ratio in Maryland at 12.3%—nearly half the state average. Remote workers and retirees should compare Garrett's 12.3% against Charles County's 18.9% to understand your potential savings in real dollars.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Garrett County
Rent Burden
12.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,611
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.2%
of gross income
The median home in Garrett County may be a stretch
Median home value is $217,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,732 vs. your max of $1,611.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Garrett County, Maryland?
What is the median rent in Garrett County?
Is Garrett County affordable?
How does Garrett County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Garrett County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Garrett County, Maryland? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Garrett County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.