countyscore
52.8
County Score
Schools 79.4Income & Jobs 76.3Health 76.1

County Report Card

About Kent County, Maryland

Kent County outperforms national benchmarks

With a composite score of 52.8, Kent County comfortably beats the national median of 50.0. It offers a higher standard of living than much of the United States.

Leading the Maryland state average

Kent County’s score of 52.8 is significantly higher than the Maryland average of 47.4. It stands out as a high-performing rural alternative to the state's more congested urban corridors.

Strong schools and economic resilience

Kent excels with a school score of 79.4 and an income score of 76.3. The risk score of 72.5 also indicates a very stable environment, making it a safe bet for long-term residency.

Water infrastructure and housing costs

The water score of 43.5 suggests a need for infrastructure investment. While home values average $307,100, the cost score of 14.6 indicates that housing still takes a significant bite out of local budgets.

A stable haven for growing families

This county is perfect for families looking for a safe, low-risk environment with high-quality education. It offers a balanced lifestyle that prioritizes community stability and educational success.

2040608010042.214.652.376.179.476.372.543.558.8Tax42.2Cost14.6Safety52.3Health76.1Schools79.4Income76.3Risk72.5Water43.5Weather58.852.8/100
This county
National avg
4 above average2 below average

Kent County DNA

Foverall

How Kent County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Kent County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Health (76.1/100) but notably weak in Cost of Living (14.6/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
42.2-9.799999999999997
Cost
14.6-33.4
Safety
52.3
Health
76.1+26.099999999999994
Schools
79.4+25.400000000000006
Income
76.3+25.299999999999997
Risk
72.5+25.5
Water
43.5-14.5
Weather
58.8
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$307,100

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,144/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$307,100/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$45,760/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum4.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $74,402/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

51.9

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Counties with similar scores

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Nearby counties

Queen Anne's County
Maryland
58.9
Cecil County
Maryland
42.2
Harford County
Maryland
50.1
Caroline County
Maryland
42
Baltimore County
Maryland
38.3
Baltimore city
Maryland
24.8
Kent County
Delaware
44.2
Anne Arundel County
Maryland
45.6

Deep Dives

Kent County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Kent County

via TaxByCounty

Kent County taxes track slightly above national median

Kent County's effective tax rate of 0.943% sits above the national median of 0.84%, placing it in the moderate-to-upper range of U.S. counties. The median property tax bill of $2,896 is 8% above the national median of $2,690, despite property values remaining close to the national average at $307,100.

Slightly below Maryland's average rate

At 0.943%, Kent County's effective tax rate runs just below Maryland's state average of 0.957%, positioning it in the middle tier of the state's 24 counties. Its median tax bill of $2,896 is 13% below the state median of $3,328.

Lower taxes than most Eastern Shore peers

Kent County's 0.943% rate aligns with other Eastern Shore counties, running below Queen Anne's County and comparable to Dorchester County. Homeowners here pay roughly $500 annually less than their Harford County counterparts on similar properties.

Expected annual tax on median home

A home valued at Kent County's median of $307,100 will generate approximately $2,896 in annual property taxes at the 0.943% effective rate. With a mortgage, that estimate is $2,793; without one, it rises to $3,094.

You may be paying too much

Kent County homeowners should verify their assessments match current market conditions and comparable sales in their neighborhoods. Filing a timely appeal can correct errors and reduce annual tax burdens.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Kent County

via CostByCounty

Kent County matches national affordability

Kent County residents spend 18.4% of income on rent—nearly identical to the national average—while earning a median income of $74,402, almost perfectly matching the national median of $74,755. This alignment suggests Kent offers typically American affordability across the board.

Slightly above Maryland's state average

Kent's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Maryland's state average of 18.3% by just 0.1%, positioning it in the middle tier of county affordability. The median rent of $1,144 falls $271 below the state average, reflecting the county's small-town Eastern Shore character.

Eastern Shore middle ground

Kent County's $1,144 median rent sits between rural Garrett ($710) and Dorchester ($959), reflecting its status as a modest Eastern Shore county. Its 18.4% ratio places it above affordability leader Garrett ($12.3%) but below Charles and Montgomery, making it a reasonable middle option for water-focused residents.

Income and rent align closely

Renters pay $1,144 monthly while homeowners spend $1,408 on a $74,402 median income—straightforward housing costs consuming roughly 18-22% of earnings. Combined housing expenses run near 30%, typical for American households.

Kent offers typical Eastern Shore value

Kent County delivers a relatable rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% for those seeking Chesapeake Bay living without premium pricing or small-town sacrifice. Test your relocation: Kent's 18.4% compares closely to state average (18.3%) while undercutting Charles and Montgomery on actual rents.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Kent County

via IncomeByCounty

Kent County just below national income median

Kent County's median household income of $74,402 nearly matches the national median of $74,755, positioning it squarely in America's middle class. The county's small-town character and mixed agricultural and service economy create moderate, stable earnings.

Near Maryland's statewide average

Kent County's median household income of $74,402 falls below Maryland's statewide average of $94,152 by $19,750. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier of Maryland's 24 jurisdictions.

Middle-income Eastern Shore county

Kent County's $74,402 income exceeds rural Dorchester County ($60,495) but trails Harford County ($111,317) to the north. On the Eastern Shore, it represents a moderate earnings level between coastal and suburban zones.

Rent affordable despite narrow margins

Kent County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% sits comfortably within affordability guidelines, though households spending that share have limited flex budgets. Median home values of $307,100 remain accessible for households earning the county average.

Steady progress through consistent saving

Kent County residents with solid, middle-class incomes should prioritize employer-sponsored retirement plans and automatic savings mechanisms. Even modest monthly contributions to investment accounts compound significantly over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Kent County

via CrimeByCounty

Kent County: Small Town Safety Standards

Kent County earns a high safety score of 98.3, making it safer than most U.S. counties. Its total crime rate of 1067.9 per 100,000 is less than half the national average of 2,385.5.

Outpacing the Maryland Safety Average

The county's safety score of 98.3 is nearly a full point higher than the Maryland average of 97.4. Its total crime rate is approximately 35% lower than the state average of 1638.3 per 100,000.

How Kent Compares to Nearby Counties

Kent County is significantly safer than Howard County, which has a crime rate of 1520.1 per 100,000. It also outperforms Frederick County's rate of 1197.9.

A Breakdown of Local Crime Data

Property crime occurs at a rate of 876.1 per 100,000 residents, while violent crime remains low at 191.8. This violent crime rate is much lower than the Maryland average of 311.8.

Maintaining Security in Kent County

Low crime rates are a community hallmark, but property protection remains vital. Basic precautions like outdoor lighting and secure window locks help keep Kent County homes safe.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Kent County

via SchoolsByCounty

Maryland's Most Intimate School System

Kent County maintains just 5 public schools, including 3 elementary, 1 middle, and 1 high school. This small system serves 1,751 students, offering a community-centric educational experience. There are no alternative or charter schools, focusing all resources on a single path for every grade level.

High Standards in a Small Package

Kent County achieves an impressive 63.2 school score and a 92.0% graduation rate, both exceeding state averages. The county spends $10,991 per pupil, which is more than the $10,395 state average despite the small enrollment. This ensures that even the smallest system in the state remains well-funded and highly effective.

Unified Local Focus in Kent County

Kent County Public Schools oversees all 1,751 students across the county's five campuses. This small district size allows for unparalleled focus on the individual needs of every local student. The lack of charter schools ensures the entire community is invested in the success of the traditional public system.

Quiet Rural and Town School Settings

The schools are split between rural areas (3) and local towns (2), providing a peaceful learning environment. Enrollment is small, with an average of 350 students per school, while Rock Hall Elementary serves just 182 children. Kent County High is the largest facility, yet remains intimate with only 531 students.

Find Peace and Quality in Kent County

Buyers seeking a break from suburban sprawl will find Kent County's small-scale schools highly attractive. The high graduation rate and generous per-pupil spending offer peace of mind for families. Explore homes in Chestertown or Rock Hall to enjoy a close-knit community with excellent academic standing.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Kent County

via RiskByCounty

Kent County Among America's Safer Counties

Kent County scores 27.51 on the composite risk scale, placing it well below the national median and indicating significantly lower disaster exposure than average U.S. counties. This very low overall risk reflects reduced exposure to most major hazard types, though hurricane risk reaches 80.81—the county's one notable vulnerability. Kent ranks among the nation's safer jurisdictions for natural disaster preparedness.

Second-Safest County in Maryland

Kent County ranks as Maryland's second-safest jurisdiction with a composite score of 27.51, far below the state average of 60.22 and exceeded in safety only by Garrett County (16.00). This exceptional safety profile makes Kent County one of the most disaster-resilient regions in Maryland. The county benefits from its Upper Eastern Shore location and distance from major seismic and severe weather corridors.

Safer Than Most Regional Peers

Kent County's composite score of 27.51 substantially exceeds nearby Queen Anne's County and significantly outpaces Dorchester, Talbot, and Cecil counties. Only Garrett County (16.00) ranks safer in the broader region. Kent's central Eastern Shore location insulates it from the extreme coastal exposure that affects some neighboring jurisdictions.

Hurricane Risk Only Concern Here

Kent County's sole significant hazard is hurricane risk at 80.81, reflecting the county's location on the Chesapeake Bay's Eastern Shore. Flood risk remains moderate at 60.00, while earthquake (52.04), tornado (23.51), and wildfire (25.45) risks all present minimal exposure. Overall, hurricane preparation dominates Kent's natural disaster landscape.

Focus Coverage on Hurricane Protection

Kent County residents should prioritize homeowners insurance with explicit hurricane and wind damage coverage given the county's 80.81 hurricane risk score, the only substantial hazard in an otherwise safe region. Standard flood insurance is advisable for properties within one mile of the Chesapeake Bay or mapped floodplains. Earthquake and tornado coverage are optional for most residents given the county's very low exposure to these hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Kent County

via WaterByCounty

High Violation Rate Impacts Kent County

Kent County receives a D grade for drinking water compliance with 3 health violations over five years. The violation rate of 26.3 per 100,000 residents is higher than the state average of 25.7. This indicates that residents may experience more frequent safety notices than those in other Maryland counties.

Half of Kent Waterways Face Impairment

Exactly 50.0% of the 40 assessed water bodies in Kent County are classified as impaired in the 2022 reporting cycle. This failure rate exceeds the state average of 43.1%. The primary culprits are phosphorus, nitrogen, and fecal coliform contamination.

Extensive Physical and Microbial Tracking

Monitoring agencies operate 53 sites in the county, recording 53,111 measurements over the last five years. The tracking focus is on physical, nutrient, and microbiological characteristics. This robust data set is essential for understanding the agricultural and bacterial impacts on the local water supply.

Morgan Creek Flow Drops to Thirty Percent

Morgan Creek near Kennedyville is currently flowing at 4 cfs, which is only 31% of its long-term mean. The typical discharge for this creek is 11 cfs, serving a small 13 square mile drainage area. These low levels can increase the concentration of the nutrients and bacteria already present in the water.

Be Proactive About Filtration and Runoff

Given the D grade and higher-than-average violation rate, residents should pay close attention to annual water quality reports. High levels of fecal coliform and nutrients in the watershed make it important to manage septic systems and agricultural runoff carefully. During low-flow periods, avoid recreational contact with stagnant water where bacteria can thrive.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Kent County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate Climate with High Rainfall

Kent County averages 56.0°F annually, placing it above the national median for temperature. Its 46.0 inches of annual precipitation exceeds the national average for rainfall.

The Heart of Maryland's Average

The county's 56.0°F average temperature almost perfectly matches the statewide average of 55.9°F. It represents a standard climate profile for the Middle Atlantic region.

Cooler than Southern Neighbors

Kent is cooler than neighboring Queen Anne's County, which averages 57.1°F. Despite this, Kent sees 37 days over 90°F, making it one of the hotter spots in the immediate area.

Significant Heat and Moderate Snow

The county receives 16.7 inches of snow annually during winters that average 36.2°F. Summers are intense, with a July average of 77.7°F and over five weeks of extreme heat.

Budget for Summer Cooling Costs

With 37 days of extreme heat, efficient air conditioning is a primary household necessity. Keep a snow shovel ready for the 16.7 inches of annual snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Kent County

via SoilByCounty

Ultisols of the Upper Eastern Shore

Kent County features fine sandy loam soil classified under the Ultisols taxonomic order. It has a pH of 5.17, which is slightly more acidic than the Maryland average of 5.31. These are older, highly weathered soils that have supported centuries of Eastern Shore farming.

Fine sandy loam provides easy workability

The composition is 40.8% sand, 38.1% silt, and only 10.4% clay. This fine sandy loam is prized by farmers for its workability and light texture. It doesn't compact as easily as clay-heavy soils, making it excellent for root development.

High water capacity in sandy ground

Organic matter sits at 8.02%, which is healthy but slightly below the 9.10% state average. Despite the sandy texture, the available water capacity is a strong 0.179 in/in, beating the state average of 0.175. This indicates the silt and organic matter work effectively to hold onto moisture.

Superior drainage for prime farmland

The soil is categorized as well-drained and belongs to hydrologic group B. This means it has a moderate infiltration rate and allows water to move through the profile efficiently. It is ideal for agriculture because the roots of crops are rarely suffocated by standing water.

Abundant harvests in Zone 7b

Kent County's 7b hardiness zone and well-drained loam are perfect for high-value crops like corn, soy, and vegetables. The fine sandy texture is particularly good for carrots and other root crops that need loose soil to expand. Start your garden now to enjoy the legendary productivity of this Eastern Shore soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Kent County

via LawnByCounty

Kent County: Maryland's Top Lawn Performer

Kent County is a top performer for Maryland lawns with a difficulty score of 57.6, the highest among its neighbors. Its 7b hardiness zone provides a balanced environment that is much easier to manage than the state average.

Rapid Growth Despite High Summer Heat

The area receives 46 inches of precipitation annually but endures 37 extreme heat days, which is 10 days more than the state average. With 3,938 growing degree days, the grass grows quickly and requires a dedicated mowing schedule to stay neat.

Managing Fast-Draining Fine Sandy Loam

The soil is well-drained fine sandy loam, though the pH of 5.17 is lower than the ideal 6.0 range. With 40.8% sand content, these lawns drain quickly, which is great for root health but may require more frequent light watering during heatwaves.

Staying Green Through Dry Coastal Weather

Kent County has been relatively resilient, with only 12 weeks in drought over the past year. While 71.4% of the area is currently abnormally dry, the county remains in better shape than many other parts of Maryland.

Maximize Your Long Coastal Growing Season

Tall fescue and hybrid bermudagrass flourish in this well-drained, sandy soil. For best results, seed your lawn after the April 3 frost but before the November 5 fall frost to take full advantage of the long growing window.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kent County's county score?
Kent County, Maryland has a composite county score of 52.8 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 Kent County rank among counties in Maryland?
Kent County ranks #6 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 Kent County, Maryland?
The median annual property tax in Kent County is $2,896, with an effective tax rate of 0.94%. This earns Kent County a tax score of 42.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Kent County?
The median household income in Kent County, Maryland is $74,402 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Kent County earns an income score of 76.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Kent County, Maryland a good place to live?
Kent County scores 52.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #6 in Maryland. The best way to evaluate Kent 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 Kent County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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