Cost of Living in Kent County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Kent County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Kent County, Maryland
Kent County matches national affordability
Kent County residents spend 18.4% of income on rent—nearly identical to the national average—while earning a median income of $74,402, almost perfectly matching the national median of $74,755. This alignment suggests Kent offers typically American affordability across the board.
Slightly above Maryland's state average
Kent's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Maryland's state average of 18.3% by just 0.1%, positioning it in the middle tier of county affordability. The median rent of $1,144 falls $271 below the state average, reflecting the county's small-town Eastern Shore character.
Eastern Shore middle ground
Kent County's $1,144 median rent sits between rural Garrett ($710) and Dorchester ($959), reflecting its status as a modest Eastern Shore county. Its 18.4% ratio places it above affordability leader Garrett ($12.3%) but below Charles and Montgomery, making it a reasonable middle option for water-focused residents.
Income and rent align closely
Renters pay $1,144 monthly while homeowners spend $1,408 on a $74,402 median income—straightforward housing costs consuming roughly 18-22% of earnings. Combined housing expenses run near 30%, typical for American households.
Kent offers typical Eastern Shore value
Kent County delivers a relatable rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% for those seeking Chesapeake Bay living without premium pricing or small-town sacrifice. Test your relocation: Kent's 18.4% compares closely to state average (18.3%) while undercutting Charles and Montgomery on actual rents.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Kent County
Rent Burden
18.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,736
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.7%
of gross income
The median home in Kent County may be a stretch
Median home value is $307,100. Estimated monthly cost: $2,452 vs. your max of $1,736.
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.