Some of the richest counties in Maryland are Howard, Calvert, and Montgomery Counties, all of which offer economic prosperity and a high quality of life. Read on to discover the top 10 wealthiest counties in Maryland and what makes them great places to call home.
Top 10 Richest Counties in Maryland
- Howard County
- Calvert County
- Montgomery County
- Anne Arundel County
- Charles County
- Frederick County
- Carroll County
- St. Mary’s County
- Queen Anne’s County
- Harford County
1. Howard County: $129,549 Median Household Income
Located between Baltimore and Washington D.C., Howard County is the wealthiest county in Maryland. Boasting a median household income of $129,549 and an average home value of $586,155, it’s one of the wealthiest counties in the US. Howard County is home to highly-rated public schools and is one of the best places to raise a family in Maryland. It’s also home to many large businesses and government agencies, including the National Security Agency and the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory. Some of the wealthiest cities in Howard County include Columbia, Ellicott City, and Clarksville. Actor Ed Norton grew up in Columbia.
2. Calvert County: $120,295 Median Household Income
With a median household income of $120,295, Calvert County takes second place on our list of the richest counties in Maryland. Located on the Chesapeake Bay, Calvert County has many stunning waterfront properties and a low crime rate. The average home value in Calvert County is $450,461. Residents enjoy a mix of recreational activities and a relaxed, coastal lifestyle. Solomons and Chesapeake Beach are some of the most sought-after cities in the county. It’s home to many historical and cultural attractions, including Calvert Cliffs State Park and Point Lookout State Park.
3. Montgomery County: $117,345 Median Household Income
Montgomery County, with a median household income of $117,345, is a diverse and thriving region bordering Washington, D.C., providing ample job opportunities in various sectors.
Bethesda and Potomac are known for their luxurious homes and affluent residents. The average Montgomery County home value is $594,302. Seinfeld’s Julia Louis-Dreyfus attended the all-girls Holton-Arms School in Bethesda, and actress Goldie Hawn attended Montgomery Blair High School in Silver Spring, another well-off area in Montgomery County. This area is great for families, with highly rated public schools, low crime rates, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. It’s home to the Smithsonian National Zoo and the Strathmore Music Center.
4. Anne Arundel County: $108,048 Median Household Income
Situated on the Chesapeake Bay and offering picturesque and safe waterfront communities, Anne Arundel County is the fourth wealthiest county in Maryland, having a median household income of $108,048. Annapolis, the state capital, is a mecca of culture, history, and recreation. Its proximity to Baltimore and Washington D.C. makes it an attractive location for commuters. Also home to beloved Wheel of Fortune host Pat Sajek, several professional athletes have lived in Anne Arundel County, including the legendary Cal Ripken Jr. The average value of Anne Arundel County homes is $472,242.
5. Charles County: $107,808 Median Household Income
Charles County, which runs along the Potomac River, boasts a median household income of $107,808 and homes valued at an average of $432,619. With its lower cost of living compared to neighboring counties, Charles County provides an attractive option for those seeking a high standard of living without breaking the bank. Charles County hosts several historical and cultural attractions and parks, including Purse State Park, which borders the Mallows Bay Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary. Some of the wealthiest cities include Waldorf, La Plata, and Bryans Road. Waldorf has raised many musicians, including Joel and Benji Madden, brothers of the rock band Good Charlotte, and actress and singer Christina Milian. It’s also been ranked as one of the best places in the country to live.
6. Frederick County: $106,129 Median Household Income
Frederick County is the sixth richest county in Maryland, with a median household income of $106,129 and an average home value of $435,707. This county has much to offer residents, from museums, galleries, and historical sites to hiking and camping at The Catoctin Mountain Park. Frederick County Public Schools consistently rank among the best in the state, and there are ample job opportunities in healthcare, biotechnology, and government contracting. Some of the wealthiest cities in Frederick County include Frederick, Urbana, and Walkersville.
7. Carroll County: $104,708 Median Household Income
With a median household income of $104,708 and an average home value of $452,335, Carroll County is the seventh wealthiest county in Maryland. It’s in the central part of the state, northwest of Baltimore. Carroll County is known for its rolling hills, farmland, and historic towns, exuding a charming, small-town atmosphere. Some of the wealthiest cities in Carroll County include Westminster, Eldersburg, and Sykesville. Westminster, the county seat, is known for its festivals and events. With its relatively low cost of living and excellent school system, Carroll County is a popular choice for families seeking a rich quality of life.
8. St. Mary’s County: $102,859 Median Household Income
St. Mary’s County, situated along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, has a median household income of $102,859, making it the eighth richest county in Maryland. Known for its rich history and maritime heritage, it’s a popular destination for history enthusiasts. St. Mary’s County offers a high quality of life with safe communities and scenic waterfronts. The average home value in St. Mary’s County is $395,178. Some of the wealthiest cities in St. Mary’s County include Leonardtown, Lexington Park, and California.
9. Queen Anne’s County: $99,597 Median Household Income
With a median household income of $99,597, Queen Anne’s County is the ninth wealthiest county in Maryland. It’s on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, across the Chesapeake Bay from Annapolis. Queen Anne’s County is known for its beautiful scenery, historic towns, and agricultural industry. Some of the wealthiest cities include Centreville, Stevensville, and Queenstown. Queen Anne’s County is consistently ranked as one of Maryland’s best counties to retire in, and for having some of the state’s best schools and outdoor recreation. The average home value in Queen Anne’s County is $473,204.
10. Harford County: $98,495 Median Household Income
Rounding out our list of the richest counties in Maryland is Harford County. With a median household income of $98,495, this county combines suburban convenience with natural beauty. Harford County is known for its beautiful scenery, historic towns, and proximity to Baltimore and Philadelphia. The county offers a range of outdoor activities with parks, trails, and waterfront areas. With excellent schools, affordable housing options, and a low crime rate, Harford County provides a comfortable and family-friendly living environment. Some of the wealthiest cities in Harford County include Aberdeen, Bel Air, and Havre de Grace. The average value of homes in Harford County is $392,745.
Richest Counties in Maryland Bottom Line
The ten wealthiest counties in Maryland are all great places to live, work, and raise a family. They offer a variety of amenities, job opportunities, and cultural attractions. From picturesque waterfront communities to historic downtown areas, each county has its unique charm. With strong job markets, top-rated schools, and an array of recreational activities, these areas stand out as some of the most desirable places to call home in the state of Maryland.