countyscore
49.9
County Score
Income & Jobs 98.6Health 90.3Schools 75

County Report Card

About Frederick County, Maryland

Frederick hits the national median exactly

With a composite score of 49.9, Frederick County sits right on the edge of the national median of 50.0. It represents the quintessential American experience in terms of overall livability.

A top-tier Maryland performer

Frederick’s 49.9 score comfortably beats the Maryland state average of 47.4. It is frequently cited as one of the most balanced and desirable places to live in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Robust health and elite incomes

The county shines with a health score of 90.3 and an income score of 98.6. Residents enjoy a high median household income of $120,458, which supports a high standard of medical care and wellness.

Navigating high risks and housing costs

The risk score of 25.8 suggests vulnerabilities to environmental or economic shifts that residents must navigate. Furthermore, a cost score of 3.0 highlights the extreme difficulty of finding affordable housing as home values hit $437,700.

Perfect for wellness-focused professionals

Frederick County is a premier destination for families who value excellent health outcomes and high household earnings. It offers a vibrant lifestyle for those prepared to handle the competitive real estate market.

Score breakdown

Tax36.7Cost3Safety46.7Health90.3Schools75Income98.6Risk25.8Water61.4Weather63.1
🏛36.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼98.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡46.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤90.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓75
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡25.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧61.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤63.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨35.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱55.5
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

Carroll County
Maryland
57
Loudoun County
Virginia
57
Montgomery County
Maryland
46.9
Howard County
Maryland
48.8
Jefferson County
West Virginia
55.9
Adams County
Pennsylvania
53.4
Washington County
Maryland
44.6
Berkeley County
West Virginia
54.7

Deep Dives

Frederick County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Frederick County

via TaxByCounty

Frederick County taxes rank in top tier nationally

Frederick County's effective rate of 1.020% exceeds the national median of 0.84% by more than 20%, placing it in the upper quarter of U.S. counties. The median property tax bill here is $4,463, 66% higher than the national median of $2,690, driven by both tax rates and property values averaging $437,700.

Ninth highest rate among Maryland counties

Frederick County ranks ninth in Maryland by effective tax rate at 1.020%, above the state average of 0.957%. Its median tax bill of $4,463 runs 34% above Maryland's state median of $3,328.

Comparable to Washington County alternatives

Frederick County's 1.020% rate aligns closely with its neighbors; it trails Charles County's 1.039% but leads Howard County's rate in the state's central corridor. The $4,463 median tax bill represents a $689 annual premium over Harford County's median.

Expected annual tax on median home

A home valued at Frederick County's median of $437,700 will generate approximately $4,463 in annual property taxes at the 1.020% effective rate. With a mortgage, that estimate rises to $4,535; without one, it drops to $4,245.

You may be paying too much

In a high-growth county like Frederick, outdated assessments and valuation errors are common as the market shifts rapidly. Frederick County homeowners should verify their assessment and file an appeal if their property value appears inflated compared to recent sales in their area.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Frederick County

via CostByCounty

Frederick offers genuine rent relief

Frederick County residents dedicate just 17.0% of income to rent—well below the national average and among Maryland's best ratios—while earning a strong median income of $120,458. This combination means Frederick renters enjoy both lower costs and higher paychecks than the typical American household.

Frederick leads Maryland on affordability

With a 17.0% rent-to-income ratio, Frederick beats Maryland's state average of 18.3% and ranks among the county's most affordable options for renters. The county's median rent of $1,706 runs $291 above the state average, but strong local incomes make this manageable.

Balanced growth town north of Baltimore

Frederick's median rent of $1,706 falls between rural Garrett ($710) and wealthy Howard County ($2,038), reflecting its role as a mid-sized regional hub. Its 17.0% rent ratio edges out nearby Harford County ($16.8%) but stays ahead of Montgomery ($18.9%), offering smart positioning for job seekers and families.

Housing stays below one-third of income

Renters pay $1,706 monthly while homeowners spend $2,033—both well-balanced against the $120,458 median income. Combined housing costs hover around 30%, leaving healthy room for savings and discretionary spending.

Frederick balances growth and affordability

Frederick County delivers Maryland's best rent-to-income ratio among affluent counties, making it ideal for professionals seeking suburban living without D.C. price tags. Test your relocation math: Frederick's 17.0% ratio beats Charles ($18.9%) and Montgomery ($18.9%) while keeping you close to both Baltimore and Washington corridors.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Frederick County

via IncomeByCounty

Frederick ranks among wealthiest U.S. counties

Frederick County's median household income of $120,458 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by 61%, placing it solidly in America's upper-income tier. The county's blend of federal employees, healthcare workers, and tech professionals drives this strong earnings profile.

Third-highest income in Maryland

Frederick County ties with Charles County for the third-highest median household income in Maryland at $120,458, behind only Howard and Montgomery counties. The county surpasses Maryland's statewide average of $94,152 by a substantial margin.

Economic powerhouse of western Maryland

Frederick County's $120,458 median far exceeds surrounding rural counties like Garrett ($69,031) and rural neighbors across the region. The county's position along the I-270 corridor and proximity to Washington, D.C., fuels higher wages and professional employment.

Housing affordability requires caution

Despite strong incomes, Frederick County's median home value of $437,700 and rent-to-income ratio of 17.0% signal tight housing markets. High earners here should carefully assess mortgage obligations relative to their household income before purchasing.

Leverage income to diversify investments

Frederick County residents benefit from incomes well above national averages, creating opportunity to invest beyond primary residences. Consider tax-advantaged retirement accounts, real estate investment trusts, and diversified stock portfolios to compound wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Frederick County

via CrimeByCounty

Frederick County Maintains High Safety Scores

Frederick County earns a safety score of 98.1, reflecting a secure environment for its residents. The total crime rate of 1197.9 per 100,000 is approximately half the national benchmark of 2,385.5.

Outperforming the Maryland Average

Frederick ranks higher than the state average safety score of 97.4. Its crime rate is roughly 27% lower than the statewide average of 1638.3 per 100,000 residents.

A Comparative Look at Regional Safety

Frederick County is safer than neighboring Howard County, which sees 1520.1 crimes per 100,000. However, it trails Garrett County's lower crime rate of 984.2.

Property Offenses vs Violent Incidents

Violent crime in Frederick sits at 230.1 per 100,000, which is significantly lower than the national average of 369.8. Property crime accounts for 967.8 incidents per 100,000 residents.

Securing Your Frederick County Property

With property crime being the most frequent concern, home security systems provide essential protection. Simple upgrades like reinforced locks and smart cameras can deter opportunistic theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Frederick County

via HealthByCounty

Frederick County leads nation in health outcomes

At 80.0 years, Frederick County residents live 1.2 years longer than the US average of 78.8 years. With just 14.8% reporting poor or fair health, the county beats the national average of 15.7%.

Frederick County ranks among Maryland's healthiest

Frederick County's 80.0-year life expectancy outpaces Maryland's 77.0-year state average by three years. The county consistently ranks in the top tier of Maryland health metrics.

Frederick dominates regional health competition

Frederick County's 80.0 years life expectancy far exceeds Garrett County (76.8) and Charles County (76.7) to the west. Montgomery County (83.2) to the east remains the only regional peer surpassing Frederick's strong performance.

Strong coverage, excellent provider access

Frederick's 5.2% uninsured rate sits just below the state average of 6.4%, ensuring most residents access care. With 56 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Frederick offers above-average healthcare availability.

Keep your coverage strong year-round.

Frederick County's excellent insurance rates show what's possible when coverage is accessible. Even in this healthy county, marylandhealthconnection.gov helps you find plans that keep your family protected.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Frederick County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse and Expanding School System

Frederick County features 69 public schools, including 42 elementary and 11 high schools. The district serves a massive student body of 46,899 children across the region. The infrastructure includes specialized facilities like special education and alternative schools to ensure every student is reached.

Strong Graduation Rates at a Lower Cost

The county achieves a 92.0% graduation rate, outpacing the national average of 87%. Frederick maintains these results with a per-pupil expenditure of $9,495, which is lower than the Maryland state average. A composite school score of 60.0 reflects a solid and reliable educational standard.

Frederick County Public Schools and Charter Options

Frederick County Public Schools manages the vast majority of local education for nearly 47,000 students. The county is unique for hosting 4 charter schools, representing nearly 6% of the total school inventory. This provides families with additional public school choices beyond the traditional model.

From Urban Centers to Rural Valleys

The school mix is remarkably diverse, featuring 24 suburban, 20 rural, 17 city, and 8 town locations. Schools average 700 students each, providing a mid-to-large campus feel. Gov. Thomas Johnson High is the largest school in the system, enrolling ,1962 students in its city-based campus.

Diverse Housing for Every School Preference

Whether you prefer a suburban neighborhood or a rural homestead, Frederick County has a school to match. The presence of charter schools and high graduation rates makes this a top destination for value-conscious families. Explore homes in Frederick or Urbana to be near some of the county's most prominent high schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Frederick County

via RiskByCounty

Frederick County Above National Risk Average

Frederick County scores 74.20 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the higher end compared to the national median and indicating above-average disaster exposure. The county's elevated tornado risk (67.21), hurricane risk (79.27), and earthquake risk (74.59) all exceed national norms significantly. Flood risk of 81.58 rounds out a multi-hazard profile that demands comprehensive preparedness.

Among Maryland's Higher-Risk Counties

Frederick County ranks in the upper tier of Maryland counties with a composite score of 74.20, well above the state average of 60.22. Only Montgomery County (91.67) and Harford County (72.46) and Howard County (72.42) approach Frederick's risk level in Maryland. Frederick's elevated tornado, flood, and earthquake scores reflect its central Maryland location and varied topography.

Riskier Than Most Adjacent Counties

Frederick County's composite score of 74.20 exceeds neighboring Washington, Carroll, and Baltimore counties, though it closely trails Harford and Howard counties to the east. Frederick's tornado risk (67.21) is notably higher than regional peers, while its flood risk (81.58) aligns with other central Maryland counties. The county's convergence of multiple hazard types distinguishes it within the region.

Tornadoes, Floods, Hurricanes Matter Most

Frederick County's top three hazards are flood risk (81.58), hurricane risk (79.27), and earthquake risk (74.59), creating a complex hazard landscape. Tornado risk reaches 67.21, markedly higher than most Maryland counties and reflecting Frederick's position in a convergence zone for severe thunderstorms. Wildfire risk is relatively low at 27.64, offering one pocket of mitigation focus.

Prepare for Tornadoes and Floods

Frederick County residents should prioritize a safe room or basement shelter for tornado protection, as the county's 67.21 tornado risk score far exceeds state averages and demands active family drills. Flood insurance is essential for properties near streams and floodplains; the county's 81.58 flood score affects broad areas. Add earthquake and hurricane riders to your homeowners policy to cover Frederick's 74.59 and 79.27 risks respectively.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Frederick County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate Piedmont weather patterns

Frederick County's 54.5°F average is slightly warmer than the national median. This region experiences a balanced four-season climate typical of the Mid-Atlantic piedmont.

Slightly cooler than the state

The county's average temperature is 1.4 degrees lower than the Maryland state average of 55.9°F. It serves as a middle ground between the cold western mountains and the warm coastal plain.

Warmer than western Maryland

Frederick is significantly warmer and less snowy than neighboring Allegany. Its 46.3 inches of annual rain is slightly higher than the state average of 45.7 inches.

Moderate snow and summer heat

The county receives 27.5 inches of snow and sees 20 days of extreme heat over 90°F. Winters are chilly with a 32.3°F January average, while July peaks at a warm 75.8°F.

Plan for variable precipitation

Residents should prepare for both 27.5 inches of snow and 46.3 inches of rain throughout the year. Standard HVAC systems will handle the 20 days of extreme heat and typical winter lows.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Frederick County

via SoilByCounty

Typical Maryland acidity in Frederick

Frederick County averages a pH of 5.36, placing it almost exactly at the state average of 5.31. This level is more acidic than the national 6.5 median but remains manageable for most regional crops. While formal taxonomic orders are not listed, the chemical profile is classic for the Piedmont region.

Heavy silt concentrations define the mix

A substantial 44.7% silt and 16.8% clay content give this soil a heavier, more substantial feel. Sand makes up 34.8% of the mix, providing some balance to the denser particles. This composition often creates a soil that holds together well but requires more effort to cultivate.

Low organic matter requires enrichment

The soil contains just 2.14% organic matter, which is significantly lower than the Maryland state average of 9.10%. The available water capacity is also below the state benchmark at 0.157 in/in. Local gardeners should prioritize adding compost and mulch to boost these levels.

Managing moisture in Frederick soil

Official drainage class and hydrologic group data are not available for this specific county profile. The high silt and clay percentages suggest a potential for slower drainage compared to sandier coastal counties. Monitoring your soil after a heavy rain will help identify if your plot holds water too long.

Gardening in the heart of Zone 7a

Zone 7a provides a reliable window for traditional favorites like apples, berries, and cool-season greens. Because the organic matter is low at 2.14%, building up your soil health is the first step toward success. Start a compost pile now to transform this silty ground into a productive harvest.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Frederick County

via LawnByCounty

A Favorable Growing Environment in Frederick

Frederick County enjoys a lawn difficulty score of 55.5, outperforming both the state average and the national median of 50.0. This Zone 7a region provides a relatively stable and favorable environment for maintaining a healthy, green lawn.

Balanced Rain and Moderate Summer Heat

The climate features 46.3 inches of annual precipitation and only 20 extreme heat days, which is lower than the Maryland average of 27. This balance provides a steady growing season of 3,644 growing degree days with less risk of summer grass burnout.

Managing Clay-Rich Soil and Acidity

Soil here is slightly acidic at 5.36 pH and contains 16.8% clay, which helps with moisture retention but can lead to compaction. Homeowners should apply lime to reach the ideal 6.0 pH threshold and ensure their turf can access vital nutrients.

Resilience Strategies for Abnormally Dry Weeks

Despite 36 weeks of drought over the past year, only 1.7% of the area currently faces severe conditions. Keep your grass at least three inches high to shade the soil and preserve moisture during the 100% abnormally dry periods currently affecting the county.

Planting Resilient Turf in Zone 7a

Tall fescue remains the gold standard for Frederick lawns due to its deep roots and summer durability. Time your seeding between the April 14 spring frost and October 30 fall frost for optimal establishment in this climate.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Frederick County's county score?
Frederick County, Maryland has a composite county score of 49.9 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 Frederick County rank among counties in Maryland?
Frederick County ranks #9 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 Frederick County, Maryland?
The median annual property tax in Frederick County is $4,463, with an effective tax rate of 1.02%. This earns Frederick County a tax score of 36.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Frederick County?
The median household income in Frederick County, Maryland is $120,458 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Frederick County earns an income score of 98.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Frederick County, Maryland a good place to live?
Frederick County scores 49.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in Maryland. The best way to evaluate Frederick 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 Frederick 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.