Cost of Living in Worcester County, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Worcester County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Worcester County ranks #1,758 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 44%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Worcester County, Maryland
Worcester achieves national affordability
Worcester County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% sits comfortably below the national average of 20.0%, with a median household income of $81,455 that exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755 by 9%. This combination positions Worcester as one of the nation's more accessible mid-Atlantic destinations.
Below Maryland's affordability mark
Worcester's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks below Maryland's state average of 18.3%, placing the county among the state's more affordable options. The median income of $81,455 provides solid financial footing compared to statewide peers.
Eastern Shore value leader
Worcester's median rent of $1,180 competes favorably with nearby Talbot ($1,248) and Wicomico ($1,238), while supporting a higher median income than both counties. Home values at $348,100 reflect strong equity potential on Maryland's coastal peninsula.
Measured housing burdens
Worcester renters dedicate 17.4% of their $81,455 median income to $1,180 monthly rent, preserving substantial income for savings and living expenses. Homeowners allocating $1,378 to monthly mortgage payments commit 20.3% of income to ownership—a sustainable ratio for middle-income households.
Maryland's coastal value choice
Worcester County delivers competitive Eastern Shore housing costs, solid median income, and below-state-average affordability ratios—an appealing combination for families and remote workers. The county's ocean proximity and reasonable housing expenses make it an accessible alternative to pricier coastal counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Worcester County
Affordability Verdict
Worcester County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,180/month — about 17.4% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Worcester County pay $1,180/month on average, compared to $1,378/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 14%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $47,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $59,057/year. With a median household income of $81,455, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Worcester County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Maryland, Worcester County is less affordable than Wicomico County by roughly 5% ($1,180/mo vs $1,238/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Worcester County
Rent Burden
17.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,901
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.3%
of gross income
The median home in Worcester County may be a stretch
Median home value is $348,100. Estimated monthly cost: $2,779 vs. your max of $1,901.
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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