countyscore
45.6
County Score
Income & Jobs 98.6Health 91.2Water Quality 67.5

County Report Card

About Anne Arundel County, Maryland

High Prosperity with National Trade-offs

Anne Arundel's composite score of 45.6 falls slightly below the national median of 50.0. While it excels in wealth, high costs and environmental risks pull it toward the bottom half of national rankings.

Trailing the Maryland State Average

The county's 45.6 score sits just below the Maryland state average of 47.4. Despite its significant wealth, it struggles to compete with the overall livability balance found in other Maryland jurisdictions.

Wealth and Health Leader

With an income score of 98.6 and a median household income of $120,324, the county is an economic powerhouse. Residents also benefit from exceptional healthcare access, evidenced by a health score of 91.2.

Extreme Costs and Environmental Risk

Affordability is a major barrier, with a cost score of only 1.9 and a median home value of $450,300. Additionally, the risk score of 18.1 indicates significant vulnerability to natural or environmental hazards.

A Haven for High-Income Professionals

This county is perfect for affluent professionals who value proximity to top-tier medical facilities and high-earning jobs. Buyers must be willing to pay a steep premium for housing and accept higher environmental risks.

Score breakdown

Tax48.8Cost1.9Safety23.4Health91.2Schools65.8Income98.6Risk18.1Water67.5Weather67.3
🏛48.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠1.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼98.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡23.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤91.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓65.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡18.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧67.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤67.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨44.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱51.7
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Prince George's County
Maryland
32.5
Baltimore city
Maryland
24.8
Queen Anne's County
Maryland
58.9
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
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Baltimore County
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Howard County
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Talbot County
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Deep Dives

Anne Arundel County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Anne Arundel County

via TaxByCounty

Anne Arundel's rate ranks low nationally

Anne Arundel County's effective tax rate of 0.852% sits below the national median of 0.890%, placing it in roughly the 40th percentile nationwide. With a median property tax of $3,836 on homes worth $450,300, residents here enjoy one of the more favorable tax rates despite higher home values.

Among Maryland's lowest tax rates

Anne Arundel County ranks in the lower half of Maryland counties with an effective rate of 0.852%, well below the state average of 0.957%. The median property tax of $3,836 exceeds the state median of $3,328, but only because homes here are significantly more valuable.

Most tax-friendly in the region

Anne Arundel's 0.852% rate is the lowest among central Maryland counties, beating Calvert (0.876%), Carroll (0.944%), and Baltimore County (1.105%). On comparable home values, Anne Arundel residents keep more of their wealth compared to neighboring jurisdictions.

What you pay on a typical home

On Anne Arundel's median home value of $450,300, the effective tax rate of 0.852% comes to roughly $3,836 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $3,902 per year, while those owning free and clear pay around $3,665.

You may be overassessed

Even in a tax-friendly county, many homeowners overpay because their properties are assessed above actual market value. Anne Arundel residents can file an appeal with the county assessor—a straightforward process that could reduce your annual tax liability.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Anne Arundel County

via CostByCounty

Anne Arundel's premium housing market

Anne Arundel County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% slightly exceeds Maryland's 18.3% state average, reflecting the county's position as one of the region's pricier housing markets. Despite a strong median household income of $120,324—61% above the national average—residents still dedicate a substantial share to housing costs.

High-income, high-cost equation

Anne Arundel ranks among Maryland's most expensive counties for both renters and owners, with a median rent of $1,990 and median home value of $450,300. The county's robust median income of $120,324 helps offset these costs, but housing remains above the state average.

Premium pricing in the region

Anne Arundel's $1,990 median rent significantly outpaces neighboring Baltimore County ($1,566) and Carroll County ($1,370), positioning it as the region's most expensive rental market. Home values tell a similar story: Anne Arundel's $450,300 median is notably higher than Baltimore County's $330,000.

Anne Arundel's housing snapshot

Renters pay $1,990 monthly while homeowners carry $2,051 mortgage payments on homes averaging $450,300 in value. Despite these high costs, the county's strong median income of $120,324 means housing consumes 19.9% for renters and 20.4% for owners—manageable for higher earners but tight for lower-income households.

Anne Arundel for high earners

Anne Arundel attracts professionals with solid incomes seeking upscale suburban living and strong schools. If you earn $120,000+ and can afford $1,990+ rent or $2,000+ monthly mortgage payments, Anne Arundel's quality of life may justify the premium.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Anne Arundel County

via IncomeByCounty

Anne Arundel ranks among wealthiest U.S. counties

Anne Arundel County's median household income of $120,324 towers 61% above the national median of $74,755, placing it in the top tier of American counties. This affluence reflects the county's strong aerospace, defense, and professional service economies anchored by major employers.

Second-highest income in Maryland

Anne Arundel's $120,324 median household income ranks second in Maryland, exceeded only by outlying commuter counties. The county's per capita income of $58,462 also ranks near the top of the state, substantially above Maryland's $46,948 average.

Outpaces Baltimore region by large margin

Anne Arundel's median household income of $120,324 significantly exceeds Baltimore County ($90,904) and Baltimore City ($59,623), reflecting its position as Maryland's premier suburban economic hub. Only Calvert County ($132,059) and Carroll County ($115,876) approach its income levels.

High income meets high housing costs

Anne Arundel's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% remains manageable, though notably higher than less expensive counties, reflecting median home values of $450,300. Strong incomes allow most households to comfortably afford housing, though newcomers should budget carefully for purchase costs.

Leverage high income for wealth creation

Anne Arundel's above-average household incomes position residents well for building significant wealth through disciplined investing and diversification. Work with a financial advisor to optimize your tax strategy, maximize retirement contributions, and consider real estate and investment portfolio growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Anne Arundel County

via CrimeByCounty

Anne Arundel Below National Crime Benchmarks

Anne Arundel County reports a total crime rate of 1,944.5 per 100,000, which is well below the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a safety score of 96.9 out of 100, indicating a high level of overall security. Residents benefit from a violent crime rate of 354.0, which stays under the national benchmark of 369.8.

Meeting Maryland’s High Safety Standards

With a safety score of 96.9, Anne Arundel tracks closely to the statewide average score of 97.4. Six reporting agencies contribute to these 2022 figures, ensuring a comprehensive view of the county's public safety landscape. While the total crime rate is higher than the state average of 1,638.3, it remains competitive for a major metropolitan area.

Balancing Safety Near Baltimore and D.C.

Compared to its urban neighbor Baltimore City, Anne Arundel is significantly safer with a total crime rate less than half that of the city. While it experiences more activity than rural neighbors, its safety score remains higher than more densely populated urban centers. This balance makes it a preferred residential hub for those working in surrounding corridors.

Focusing on Property Crime Prevention

Property crime makes up the bulk of local incidents at ,1590.5 per 100,000 residents, while violent crime sits at 354.0. These numbers suggest that while physical safety is high, residents should remain vigilant regarding their belongings. Most reported crimes involve theft rather than direct personal threats.

Stay Proactive with Home Security Systems

Residents can further boost their safety by installing smart doorbells and alarm systems to monitor for property theft. High-visibility security measures are effective tools in a county where property crime is the most frequent concern. Community awareness and locked doors are the best defenses for maintaining a secure home.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Anne Arundel County

via HealthByCounty

Anne Arundel outpaces national health

Anne Arundel residents live to 78.8 years—above the U.S. average of 78.8 years—with only 12.9% reporting poor or fair health. The county demonstrates some of Maryland's strongest health outcomes and longevity.

Leads Maryland in life expectancy

At 78.8 years, Anne Arundel matches the national average and exceeds Maryland's state average of 77.0 years by 1.8 years. The county's 12.9% poor/fair health rate ranks among the state's best.

Outshines Baltimore region rivals

Anne Arundel's 78.8-year life expectancy significantly surpasses Baltimore County (76.9 years) and far exceeds Baltimore city (70.6 years). With 67 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Anne Arundel offers robust primary care access.

Strong coverage, adequate providers

Anne Arundel's uninsured rate of 5.2% is among Maryland's lowest, and the county provides 67 primary care providers per 100,000 residents. Mental health support is also readily available with 283 providers per 100,000 residents.

Keep your coverage intact

Even in well-insured Anne Arundel, coverage gaps can happen. Verify your health insurance status annually and explore marylandhealthcare.org to ensure continuous access to the quality care that keeps this county healthy.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Anne Arundel County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Suburban Education Infrastructure

Anne Arundel County operates a massive network of 126 public schools serving over 84,452 students. The landscape includes 81 elementary schools, 20 middle schools, and 15 high schools, alongside 10 specialized centers. This single-district system is one of the largest in the state, providing comprehensive services across the Chesapeake region.

Steady Achievement in a High-Volume System

The county maintains an 89.0% graduation rate, which sits comfortably above the national average of 87%. Per-pupil expenditure is currently $10,039, roughly aligned with the Maryland state average but below the national spend of $13,000. These investments yield a school score of 59.6, staying close to the state's median performance levels.

Large High Schools and Charter Options

Anne Arundel County Public Schools manages the vast majority of the county’s 84,452 students across 126 campuses. The county includes two charter schools, representing 1.6% of the total school landscape, offering specialized alternatives to the traditional curriculum. Large high schools like North County High, which enrolls 2,451 students, serve as major community hubs.

A Primarily Suburban School Experience

Education here is overwhelmingly suburban, with 116 schools located in suburban locales and only 7 in rural areas. Schools are large, averaging 687 students per campus, which allows for diverse extracurricular and elective offerings. From the massive North County High to smaller elementary buildings, the county offers a variety of campus sizes.

Finding the Perfect Neighborhood for Learning

With its vast suburban network and steady graduation rates, Anne Arundel is a top destination for families prioritizing education. Consider the school proximity and district performance as you explore real estate near the Annapolis and Baltimore corridors. The scale of this system ensures that families have numerous academic pathways to choose from.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Anne Arundel County

via RiskByCounty

Anne Arundel faces significant national risk levels

Anne Arundel County's composite risk score of 81.87 places it in the "Relatively Moderate" category, well above the national average and among the most hazard-exposed counties in the Mid-Atlantic. Nearly all major disaster types pose notable threats to the county's 600,000 residents.

Third-highest risk in Maryland

Anne Arundel's 81.87 score significantly exceeds Maryland's state average of 60.22, ranking it third-highest for overall disaster risk behind only Baltimore City and Baltimore County. The county's position at the confluence of Chesapeake Bay water routes and Atlantic weather patterns drives this elevated exposure.

Anne Arundel leads the Bay area in risk

Anne Arundel (81.87) faces substantially higher risk than Calvert County (28.91) to the south, despite similar waterfront geography. Baltimore County (93.99) and Baltimore City (95.01) present even greater hazard levels, creating a risk gradient across the Baltimore-Annapolis corridor.

Hurricanes, earthquakes, and tornados dominate

Anne Arundel residents face exceptional hurricane risk (87.19), earthquake exposure (83.21), and tornado danger (82.03)—the highest tornado score of any Maryland county. Flood risk (80.95) rounds out the county's top quartet of hazards, leaving few areas entirely safe from multiple disaster types.

Bundle comprehensive coverage for your family

Anne Arundel homeowners need flood insurance, earthquake coverage (often a separate rider), and robust windstorm protection due to hurricane exposure. Consider a personal umbrella policy to cover liability gaps, and ensure all policies are current and reflect current home values.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Anne Arundel County

via WeatherByCounty

A warm, coastal subtropical climate

Anne Arundel's 57.6°F annual average is warmer than the national median temperature. This humid subtropical climate is heavily influenced by its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay.

Warmer than the state average

The county is warmer than the Maryland state average of 55.9°F. It ranks among the warmer jurisdictions in the state, benefiting from the moderating effects of coastal water.

Typical of the central coast

The county shares a 57.6°F average with Baltimore city but experiences slightly less July heat. Its 44.5 inches of annual rainfall is very close to the state average of 45.7 inches.

Humid summers and moderate winters

July brings an average of 79.2°F and 31 days of extreme heat over 90°F. Winters are relatively mild with 19.3 inches of snow and a January average of 35.9°F.

Focus on cooling and drainage

High-efficiency air conditioning is essential for the month of extreme heat days. Waterfront residents should also prepare for 44.5 inches of rain, which can impact local drainage and tide levels.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Anne Arundel County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal Acidity Near the Chesapeake

Anne Arundel County soils have an average pH of 5.49, which is more alkaline than the state average of 5.31 but still acidic compared to the 6.5 national median. The county sits in a coastal transition zone where chemical properties are shaped by proximity to the bay. Taxonomic data is limited, but the pH suggests a need for lime in traditional vegetable gardens.

Sandy Shores and Fast Drainage

Dominated by 55.0% sand, these soils are easy to work and warm up quickly in the spring. Silt accounts for 30.8% of the mix, while clay is low at 12.8%, making the soil feel gritty and light. This high sand content ensures that roots have plenty of air but allows water to pass through rapidly.

Moderate Fertility and Water Storage

Organic matter sits at 4.36%, which is healthy by national standards but falls below the Maryland state average of 9.10%. The available water capacity of 0.143 in/in also trails the state average of 0.175, suggesting crops may need supplemental irrigation. Improving organic content will help these sandy soils hold onto vital nutrients.

Slow Infiltration Despite Sandy Texture

While the surface feels sandy, the county belongs to hydrologic group D, signaling high runoff potential and slow water movement through deeper layers. This paradox means that while the topsoil dries out, deeper drainage issues can affect large-scale building projects. Effective water management is key for both farmers and homeowners near the coast.

Coastal Gardening in Zone 7b

In Hardiness Zone 7b, the long growing season favors warm-weather crops like tomatoes, peppers, and melons. The sandy texture is particularly well-suited for root vegetables like carrots that prefer loose, stone-free earth. With a bit of extra compost, your Anne Arundel garden will flourish in the mild bay breeze.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Anne Arundel County

via LawnByCounty

Standard Coastal Maintenance Challenges

Anne Arundel County earns a lawn difficulty score of 51.7, placing it just above the national average of 50.0. Located in Hardiness Zone 7b, the region faces a typical mid-Atlantic climate that requires steady attention but rewards consistent care. It is slightly easier to maintain a lawn here than in the more urbanized Baltimore city.

Coastal Heat Impacts Mowing Schedules

The county experiences 31 extreme heat days annually, which is higher than the Maryland average of 27. With 4,271 growing degree days and a long season starting March 27, your mower will stay busy for nearly eight months. The 44.5 inches of annual rain provides a solid foundation, but summer heat can quickly dry out turf.

Sandy Soil Requires Nutrient Management

The soil composition is 55.0% sand, meaning water and nutrients can leach away quickly. A pH of 5.49 is acidic and requires amendments to reach the 6.0-7.0 ideal range for most turfgrasses. Incorporating compost can help improve the water-holding capacity of your sandy yard.

Navigating Abnormally Dry Conditions

While the county currently avoids severe drought, 100% of the area is classified as abnormally dry. Lawns have endured 31 weeks of drought conditions over the past year, making water conservation a priority. Focus on evening or early morning irrigation to minimize evaporation losses.

Best Grass for the Bay

Heat-tolerant Tall Fescue is the gold standard for Zone 7b, providing resilience against those 31 days of 90-degree weather. Since the first fall frost doesn't arrive until November 13, you have a wide window for successful autumn overseeding. Start your prep now to take advantage of the long growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Anne Arundel County's county score?
Anne Arundel County, Maryland has a composite county score of 45.6 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Anne Arundel County rank among counties in Maryland?
Anne Arundel County ranks #16 among all counties in Maryland on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Anne Arundel County, Maryland?
The median annual property tax in Anne Arundel County is $3,836, with an effective tax rate of 0.85%. This earns Anne Arundel County a tax score of 48.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Anne Arundel County?
The median household income in Anne Arundel County, Maryland is $120,324 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Anne Arundel County earns an income score of 98.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Anne Arundel County, Maryland a good place to live?
Anne Arundel County scores 45.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #16 in Maryland. The best way to evaluate Anne Arundel County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Anne Arundel County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.