Cost of Living in Queen Anne's County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Queen Anne's County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Queen Anne's County ranks #685 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 22%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Queen Anne's County, Maryland
Queen Anne's beats national affordability
With a rent-to-income ratio of 17.1%, Queen Anne's residents spend considerably less on housing than the national average of 20.0%. The county's median household income of $113,347—51% above the U.S. median—provides substantial breathing room for other expenses.
Maryland's most affordable county option
Queen Anne's 17.1% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among Maryland's counties, sitting well below the state average of 18.3%. This positions the county as one of Maryland's most housing-secure regions for renters and homeowners alike.
Lowest rents in the region
Queen Anne's median rent of $1,611 undercuts Prince George's ($1,761) and St. Mary's ($1,692), while supporting one of the highest median incomes in the state at $113,347. Home values at $441,800 reflect the county's strong appeal and relative stability.
Income-to-housing balance
Queen Anne's renters allocate just 17.1% of their $113,347 median income to monthly rent of $1,611, leaving substantial income for savings and living costs. Homeowners investing $1,961 monthly in mortgage payments dedicate 20.8% of income to ownership—well-managed compared to state peers.
A relocation sweet spot in Maryland
If you're weighing Maryland counties, Queen Anne's offers the strongest affordability ratio and highest median income—a rare combination that maximizes financial flexibility. The county's Eastern Shore location and stable housing market make it an attractive option for remote workers and families seeking stability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Queen Anne's County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Queen Anne's County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,611/month in gross rent, with 31.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Queen Anne's County is $1,611/month, while owner costs run $1,961/month. Renting saves approximately $350/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $64,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $84,043/year. With a median household income of $113,347, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Queen Anne's County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Harford County where rent averages $1,557/month, Queen Anne's County is approximately 3% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Queen Anne's County
Rent Burden
17.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,645
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.8%
of gross income
The median home in Queen Anne's County may be a stretch
Median home value is $441,800. Estimated monthly cost: $3,527 vs. your max of $2,645.
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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