countyscore
46.9
County Score
Income & Jobs 99.2Health 87.6Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Montgomery County, Maryland

Montgomery falls just behind national median

Montgomery County earns a composite score of 46.9, trailing the national median of 50.0. While it is a global hub, high environmental and cost factors impact its overall score.

Aligning with the Maryland average

At 46.9, Montgomery is nearly perfectly aligned with the Maryland state average of 47.4. It mirrors the state's broader profile of high incomes balanced against high expenses.

Global incomes and superior water

The county boasts an elite income score of 99.2 with a median of $128,733. It also features a standout water score of 86.0, indicating high-quality public utilities and infrastructure.

Extreme living costs and high risk

Affordability is nearly non-existent with a cost score of 1.3 and home values of $615,200. Furthermore, a risk score of 8.3 suggests the county is highly vulnerable to systemic disruptions or environmental threats.

A power center for urban professionals

Montgomery County is built for high-earning individuals who value urban amenities and top-tier utilities. It is a high-stakes, high-reward environment for those who can navigate its intense costs and risk profile.

Score breakdown

Tax47.7Cost1.3Safety30.4Health87.6Schools69Income99.2Risk8.3Water86Weather66.9
🏛47.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠1.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼99.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡30.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤87.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓69
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡8.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤66.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨56.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱56.6
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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Deep Dives

Montgomery County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Montgomery County

via TaxByCounty

Montgomery County taxes run below national average

At 0.868%, Montgomery County's effective property tax rate sits just below the national median of 0.84%, making it one of the nation's more affordable tax jurisdictions. However, the median property tax bill of $5,341 is double the national median of $2,690, driven by the county's exceptionally high property values averaging $615,200.

Second lowest rate in Maryland

Montgomery County's 0.868% effective tax rate ranks second-lowest among Maryland's 24 counties, well below the state average of 0.957%. Despite its favorable rate, its median tax bill of $5,341 runs 60% above the state median of $3,328, reflecting the county's premium property values.

Lower rate but higher bills than nearby counties

Montgomery County's 0.868% rate is the lowest in the Baltimore-Washington corridor, undercutting Howard County's 1.182% by a significant margin. Yet homeowners pay $5,341 annually—roughly $1,880 more than Harford County residents—because of the county's elevated property valuations.

Expected annual tax on median home

A home valued at Montgomery County's median of $615,200 will generate approximately $5,341 in annual property taxes at the 0.868% effective rate. With a mortgage, that estimate is $5,287; without one, it rises to $5,470.

You may be paying too much

High-value Montgomery County properties deserve careful assessment scrutiny, particularly if market conditions have shifted since your last review. Homeowners should compare their assessments to recent comparable sales and file an appeal if their valuation appears inflated.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Montgomery County

via CostByCounty

Montgomery: D.C. proximity, high prices

Montgomery County residents spend 18.9% of income on rent—above the national average—while earning a strong median income of $128,733. Washington D.C. proximity drives rents to $2,030 monthly, the second-highest profiled, yet the county's robust income still makes housing manageable.

Ties Charles for highest rent burden

Montgomery's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio ties Charles County for the highest among Maryland counties profiled, exceeding the state average of 18.3%. The county's median rent of $2,030 ranks second only to Howard County, reflecting Washington D.C.'s gravitational pull on the region.

Premium pricing for proximity to D.C.

Montgomery's $2,030 median rent trails only Howard County ($2,038) and significantly exceeds all other profiled counties, reflecting its status as D.C.'s premier Maryland suburb. Its 18.9% ratio matches Charles County's burden but offers superior transit access and federal job opportunities.

High costs on high incomes balance out

Renters pay $2,030 monthly while homeowners spend $2,329 against the $128,733 median income—substantial costs offset by strong earnings. Housing consumes roughly 30% of typical household budgets, standard for affluent suburbs.

Montgomery: pay for D.C. convenience

Montgomery County's 18.9% rent ratio reflects D.C. metro premium pricing, ideal for federal workers and those prioritizing urban access over affordability. Weigh Montgomery's 18.9% against cheaper Frederick ($17.0%) or Harford ($16.8%) to decide if proximity value justifies the premium.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Montgomery County

via IncomeByCounty

Montgomery County earns 72% above U.S. average

Montgomery County's median household income of $128,733 towers 72% above the national median of $74,755, reflecting one of America's wealthiest suburban counties. Federal employment, biotech research, and professional services generate exceptional earning power.

Second-richest county in Maryland

Montgomery County ranks second in Maryland only to Howard County, with a median household income of $128,733 significantly above the statewide average of $94,152. The county's proximity to Washington, D.C., and concentration of high-wage sectors drive this dominance.

Wealthier than all but one Maryland peer

Montgomery County's $128,733 median household income trails only Howard County ($146,982) among Maryland jurisdictions, exceeding Frederick County ($120,458) and Charles County ($120,592). Its Washington, D.C., edge creates unmatched federal employment access.

Steep housing costs challenge households

Montgomery County's median home value of $615,200 and rent-to-income ratio of 18.9% reflect an exceptionally expensive housing market. While county incomes support homeownership, many households must allocate substantial shares of earnings to housing.

Strategic wealth diversification essential

Montgomery County's high earners should look beyond residential real estate to diversify wealth through stocks, bonds, and alternative investments. Work with financial professionals to optimize tax efficiency and build assets beyond the primary residence.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Montgomery County

via CrimeByCounty

Montgomery County's National Safety Position

Montgomery County holds a safety score of 97.4, indicating it is safer than the national average. Its total crime rate of 1653.8 per 100,000 residents is roughly 30% lower than the national rate of 2,385.5.

Matching the Maryland State Average

The county's safety score of 97.4 exactly matches the Maryland state average. Its total crime rate of 1653.8 is just slightly above the statewide average of 1638.3 per 100,000.

Comparative Safety in the DMV Region

Montgomery County reports more crime than neighboring Howard County, which sits at 1520.1 per 100,000. It also has a higher rate than Frederick County, which reports 1197.9.

Property Crime Dominates the Numbers

Property crime is the most common issue, occurring at a rate of 1472.9 per 100,000 residents. However, the violent crime rate of 180.9 is nearly 42% lower than the state average of 311.8.

Active Home Protection in Montgomery County

Given the higher property crime rate, residents should invest in robust home security. Motion-sensor lights and alarm systems are effective tools for deterring local theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Montgomery County

via HealthByCounty

Montgomery County achieves highest US health outcomes

At 83.2 years, Montgomery County residents live 4.4 years longer than the US average of 78.8 years. With just 11.7% reporting poor or fair health, the county ranks among America's healthiest.

Montgomery County ranks best in Maryland health

Montgomery County's 83.2-year life expectancy leads all Maryland counties, topping the state average of 77.0 by six years. The county consistently ranks first in the state across health metrics.

DC metro health powerhouse outpaces all peers

Montgomery County's 83.2 years dramatically exceeds Howard County (82.5), Frederick (80.0), Charles (76.7), and Harford (77.9). As Maryland's most populous county, Montgomery sets the state's health standard.

High uninsured rate despite exceptional provider access

Montgomery County's 7.7% uninsured rate is the state's highest, surprising given its affluence and resources. However, with 135 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, the county offers abundant healthcare access for the insured.

Even in healthy Montgomery, coverage matters.

One in 13 Montgomery County residents lacks health insurance—higher than the state average. Check marylandhealthconnection.gov to find affordable plans and keep your family's excellent health outcomes protected.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Montgomery County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Powerhouse of Public Education

Montgomery County operates a massive network of 210 public schools, including 137 elementary and 27 high schools. It serves a staggering 160,554 students, making it the largest system in Maryland. The infrastructure includes 7 special education schools and an alternative school to support its diverse population.

Elite School Scores and Significant Funding

The county earns a high school score of 63.2 and maintains an 89.0% graduation rate. Montgomery County invests $11,714 per pupil, well above the $10,395 state average and the $13,000 national spending benchmark. This investment supports a complex system that consistently ranks among the state's best.

The Reach of Montgomery County Public Schools

As the sole district, Montgomery County Public Schools manages the education of over 160,000 students. There are no charter schools in the county, reflecting the strength and versatility of the existing public school framework. This massive district is a major economic and social driver for the entire region.

Vibrant Suburban and Urban Campuses

The district is primarily suburban with 159 schools, though 41 city-based campuses add an urban flavor. Schools are large, with an average enrollment of 772 students. Montgomery Blair High is the largest in the county, hosting a population of 3,204 students.

A Top Choice for School-Driven Homebuyers

Montgomery County is a national leader in education, making it a primary target for families who view school quality as a top investment. From the urban energy of Silver Spring to the suburbs of Bethesda, home values are inextricably linked to school performance. Look for properties near top high schools like Montgomery Blair or Walter Johnson to secure your future.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Montgomery County

via RiskByCounty

Montgomery County Faces Highest Risk

Montgomery County scores 91.67 on the composite risk scale, placing it substantially above the national median and indicating exceptional natural disaster exposure compared to typical U.S. counties. The county's flood risk (93.73), hurricane risk (91.78), tornado risk (78.66), and earthquake risk (91.76) all exceed national norms dramatically. This convergence of multiple extreme hazards makes Montgomery County one of America's highest-risk jurisdictions.

Maryland's Riskiest County

Montgomery County ranks as Maryland's riskiest jurisdiction with a composite score of 91.67, substantially exceeding the state average of 60.22 and surpassing all other Maryland counties. Frederick County (74.20), Harford County (72.46), and Howard County (72.42) trail significantly behind Montgomery's elevated exposure. The county's position in central Maryland and proximity to major geological and atmospheric hazard zones drives this exceptional risk profile.

Dramatically Riskier Than Peers

Montgomery County's composite score of 91.67 far exceeds neighboring Frederick County (74.20), Howard County (72.42), and Washington County. Prince George's County shares similar exposure, though Montgomery's flood risk (93.73) is exceptional within the region. Montgomery's convergence of four extreme hazards distinguishes it sharply from all surrounding jurisdictions.

Floods, Hurricanes, Earthquakes, Tornadoes

Montgomery County faces exceptional risk across four major hazard types: flood (93.73), hurricane (91.78), earthquake (91.76), and tornado (78.66)—all among the nation's highest. This rare convergence of extreme exposure demands comprehensive, multi-layered disaster preparedness. Wildfire risk alone remains moderate at 25.13, offering minimal relief in the county's dangerous hazard portfolio.

Comprehensive Coverage Is Non-Negotiable

Montgomery County residents must obtain comprehensive homeowners insurance with explicit coverage for flood, hurricane, wind, earthquake, and tornado damage—a multi-peril package essential given the county's 91.67 composite risk. Flood insurance is absolutely critical; the county's 93.73 flood risk affects even some higher-elevation properties in the Potomac River watershed. Invest immediately in structural retrofitting (reinforced roof, impact-resistant windows, storm shelter) to survive Montgomery's exceptional multi-hazard exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Montgomery County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate with Higher Than Median Temps

Montgomery County averages 55.1°F annually, staying just above the national median temperature. It sees 44.6 inches of precipitation, which is high compared to many western states.

One of Maryland's Cooler Counties

At 55.1°F, Montgomery is cooler than the Maryland state average of 55.9°F. It also receives slightly less precipitation than the state average of 45.7 inches.

Snowier Than Its Neighbors

Montgomery receives 31.4 inches of snow, nearly doubling the 15.9 inches found in neighboring Prince George's County. It is also significantly milder in the summer with only 18 extreme heat days.

Heavy Snow and Mild Summers

Winters are defined by 31.4 inches of snow and a 33.1°F January average. Summer is relatively mild for the region, with July averaging 76.5°F.

Prioritize Winter Preparedness

Invest in a high-quality snow blower and winterize your home for significant snowfall. You will enjoy fewer 90°F days here than in almost any other Maryland county.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Montgomery County

via SoilByCounty

Silty Ultisols of the Piedmont

Montgomery County is defined by Ultisols with a dominant silt loam texture and a pH of 5.42. This pH is healthier than the state average of 5.31, though still more acidic than the national 6.5 median. These soils are characteristic of the rolling hills found just north of the capital.

Silt-heavy soil with moderate clay

The soil contains a high silt percentage of 51.6%, mixed with 17.1% clay and 27.7% sand. This high silt content can make the soil feel very smooth but also prone to erosion if left uncovered. The 17.1% clay provides good nutrient-holding capacity but can lead to compaction.

Efficient water storage despite lower organic matter

At 4.40%, the organic matter is lower than the Maryland average of 9.10% but still double the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity is a robust 0.187 in/in, which is higher than the state average of 0.175. This helps maintain plant health even when rain is scarce.

Slower infiltration in group C/D

The soil belongs to hydrologic group C/D, indicating a somewhat slow rate of water transmission. While specific drainage classes aren't listed, this group often requires attention to drainage in home gardens. Avoid working this soil when it is overly wet to prevent damaging its structure.

Gardening success in Zone 7b

Montgomery County's 7b zone and silt loam provide a great foundation for a diverse home garden. The 0.187 available water capacity means your plants are well-protected against short droughts. Focus on adding compost to improve the 4.40% organic matter and you'll see a massive boost in your harvest.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Montgomery County

via LawnByCounty

Strong Lawn Performance in Montgomery County

Montgomery County offers a favorable lawn environment with a difficulty score of 56.6, beating both the state and national averages. Its position in Zone 7b provides a long and productive growing season for a variety of turf types.

Moderate Heat and Consistent Rainfall

The county sees 44.6 inches of rain and only 18 extreme heat days, which is significantly cooler than the Maryland average of 27. This moderate heat, combined with 3,754 growing degree days, creates an ideal pace for healthy turf development.

Balancing Silt Loam for Optimal Nutrients

The soil foundation is a silt loam with 17.1% clay and a pH of 5.42. Regular lime applications are necessary to correct this acidity and help the soil reach the 6.0 to 7.0 pH sweet spot for maximum nutrient uptake.

Mulching to Combat Frequent Dry Spells

Drought is a recurring theme, as the county has spent 39 weeks in drought conditions over the past year. With 100% of the area abnormally dry right now, leaving grass clippings on the lawn provides a natural mulch to help retain moisture.

Reliable Seeding Strategies for Zone 7b

Tall fescue is the most successful choice for Montgomery County's climate and silt loam soil. Time your planting between the April 14 spring frost and the November 6 fall frost to ensure your new lawn takes hold effectively.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Montgomery County's county score?
Montgomery County, Maryland has a composite county score of 46.9 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 Montgomery County rank among counties in Maryland?
Montgomery County ranks #15 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 Montgomery County, Maryland?
The median annual property tax in Montgomery County is $5,341, with an effective tax rate of 0.87%. This earns Montgomery County a tax score of 47.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Montgomery County?
The median household income in Montgomery County, Maryland is $128,733 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Montgomery County earns an income score of 99.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Montgomery County, Maryland a good place to live?
Montgomery County scores 46.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #15 in Maryland. The best way to evaluate Montgomery 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 Montgomery County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.