Cost of Living in Talbot County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Talbot County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Talbot County ranks #876 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 28%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Talbot County, Maryland
Talbot balances charm with affordability
Talbot County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% sits comfortably below the national average of 20.0%, backed by a median household income of $84,378 that significantly exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755. This positioning makes Talbot an accessible destination for those seeking Eastern Shore appeal without premium pricing.
Below Maryland's affordability threshold
Talbot's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio sits below Maryland's state average of 18.3%, placing the county among the more affordable options statewide. The county's median income of $84,378 provides solid income security compared to state peers.
Talbot's Eastern Shore advantage
Talbot's median rent of $1,248 is the lowest among peer Eastern Shore and nearby counties, undercutting Worcester ($1,180 median income advantage) and Wicomico ($1,238). Home values at $398,300 offer strong equity potential on the competitive Eastern Shore.
Rural charm, urban-level income
Talbot renters spend 17.8% of their $84,378 median income on $1,248 monthly rent, leaving ample resources for savings and lifestyle. Homeowners committing $1,580 to monthly mortgage payments allocate 22.5% of income to ownership—a sustainable burden for building equity.
Discover Eastern Shore affordability
Talbot County offers a rare combination: Eastern Shore charm, below-average housing costs, and solid median income that supports comfortable living. Remote workers and retirees relocating here benefit from lower rents than nearby Somerset or Wicomico while maintaining access to quality schools and cultural amenities.
Cost of Living Advisory: Talbot County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Talbot County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,248/month in gross rent, with 30.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,248/month rent versus $1,580/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $332/month cheaper — a 21% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $49,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $67,714/year. With a median household income of $84,378, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Talbot County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Talbot County sits 6% more expensive than Worcester County ($1,180/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Talbot County
Rent Burden
17.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,969
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.5%
of gross income
The median home in Talbot County may be a stretch
Median home value is $398,300. Estimated monthly cost: $3,180 vs. your max of $1,969.
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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