countyscore
58.9
County Score
Income & Jobs 97.9Schools 88.2Health 87.7

County Report Card

About Queen Anne's County, Maryland

Exceeding national livability standards

Queen Anne's County boasts a composite score of 58.9, comfortably outperforming the national median of 50.0. This score places the county among the upper tier of American communities for quality of life.

A top-performing Maryland county

With a score of 58.9, the county sits well above the Maryland state average of 47.4. It remains a premier destination within the state, offering superior metrics in health and education.

Exceptional schools and health outcomes

The county shines with an 88.2 School Score and an 87.7 Health Score, indicating excellent public services. Its Income Score of 97.9 is nearly perfect, fueled by a high median income of $113,347.

Housing affordability remains a barrier

The Cost Score is a very low 3.9, reflecting a median home value of $441,800 that limits entry for new residents. Water quality also trails other metrics with a score of 35.9.

Perfect for families seeking excellence

This county is a top choice for affluent families who prioritize high-performing schools and a healthy environment. It rewards those who can afford the steep cost of entry with a high-standard lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax54Cost3.9Safety65.7Health87.7Schools88.2Income97.9Risk64.4Water35.9Weather65.4
🏛54
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠3.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼97.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡65.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤87.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓88.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡64.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧35.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤65.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨78.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱62.4
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

Kent County
Maryland
52.8
Talbot County
Maryland
56.9
Caroline County
Maryland
42
Anne Arundel County
Maryland
45.6
Kent County
Delaware
44.2
Baltimore city
Maryland
24.8
Baltimore County
Maryland
38.3
Cecil County
Maryland
42.2

Deep Dives

Queen Anne's County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Queen Anne's County

via TaxByCounty

Queen Anne's taxes are below average

Queen Anne's effective rate of 0.793% falls below the national median of 0.87%, placing it in the 35th percentile nationally. Despite a high median home value of $441,800—well above the U.S. median of $281,900—the lower rate keeps actual tax bills moderate.

Below-average taxes for Maryland

At 0.793%, Queen Anne's rate sits comfortably below Maryland's 0.957% average, ranking it among the lower-taxing counties in the state. This favorable rate makes Queen Anne's a relatively tax-friendly choice within Maryland's 24-county system.

Cheapest in the Eastern Shore cluster

Queen Anne's 0.793% rate beats all nearby Eastern Shore competitors: Talbot County (0.658%), Worcester County (0.755%), and Wicomico County (0.887%). The median tax of $3,503 is lower than most comparable counties, even with a higher home value.

A $3,503 annual property tax bill

The median Queen Anne's home, valued at $441,800, generates an annual property tax bill of about $3,503. Over a 30-year homeownership span, that's roughly $105,000 dedicated to property taxes.

Still worth checking your assessment

Even in lower-tax counties, roughly one in six homeowners are overassessed and unaware of their appeal rights. A single successful challenge could reduce your annual bill by $500 or more.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Queen Anne's County

via CostByCounty

Queen Anne's beats national affordability

With a rent-to-income ratio of 17.1%, Queen Anne's residents spend considerably less on housing than the national average of 20.0%. The county's median household income of $113,347—51% above the U.S. median—provides substantial breathing room for other expenses.

Maryland's most affordable county option

Queen Anne's 17.1% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among Maryland's counties, sitting well below the state average of 18.3%. This positions the county as one of Maryland's most housing-secure regions for renters and homeowners alike.

Lowest rents in the region

Queen Anne's median rent of $1,611 undercuts Prince George's ($1,761) and St. Mary's ($1,692), while supporting one of the highest median incomes in the state at $113,347. Home values at $441,800 reflect the county's strong appeal and relative stability.

Income-to-housing balance

Queen Anne's renters allocate just 17.1% of their $113,347 median income to monthly rent of $1,611, leaving substantial income for savings and living costs. Homeowners investing $1,961 monthly in mortgage payments dedicate 20.8% of income to ownership—well-managed compared to state peers.

A relocation sweet spot in Maryland

If you're weighing Maryland counties, Queen Anne's offers the strongest affordability ratio and highest median income—a rare combination that maximizes financial flexibility. The county's Eastern Shore location and stable housing market make it an attractive option for remote workers and families seeking stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Queen Anne's County

via IncomeByCounty

Queen Anne's leads Maryland

Queen Anne's County's median household income of $113,347 is 52% higher than the U.S. median of $74,755, making it one of the nation's wealthiest counties. This Eastern Shore community ranks among the top 10% of American counties by income.

Maryland's wealthiest county

Queen Anne's holds the top income spot among all Maryland counties, with a median of $113,347—20% above the state average of $94,152. This Bay-area county consistently outperforms both state and national benchmarks.

Outearns Eastern Shore neighbors

Queen Anne's $113,347 median income substantially exceeds nearby Talbot County ($84,378) and Worcester County ($81,455), though Talbot's per capita income of $53,527 runs close behind. Queen Anne's economic strength reflects its mix of waterfronts, commuter ties, and affluent retirees.

Housing costs stay reasonable

Queen Anne's 17.1% rent-to-income ratio is among Maryland's lowest, well below the 30% affordability threshold. A median home value of $441,800 is accessible for households earning this income level, supporting long-term wealth building.

Prime opportunity to invest aggressively

Queen Anne's top income level creates exceptional capacity to fund investment portfolios, second homes, or business ventures. Households here should prioritize tax-advantaged retirement savings, diversified brokerage accounts, and estate planning to preserve and grow their substantial wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Queen Anne's County

via CrimeByCounty

Queen Anne's Boasts Exceptional National Safety Standing

The county features a remarkably low total crime rate of 802.9 per 100K, far below the national average of 2385.5. This performance earns the county an impressive safety score of 98.7.

A Leader in Maryland Safety Rankings

Queen Anne's County outperforms the Maryland state safety average of 97.4 by a wide margin. Its safety score of 98.7 highlights its status as one of the more secure regions in the state.

Superior Safety Compared to Shore Neighbors

The county's crime rate of 802.9 per 100K is much lower than nearby Talbot County at 1173.5. It remains a regional benchmark for low crime on Maryland's Eastern Shore.

Breakdown of Local Crime Categories

Violent crime is very rare here, with a rate of only 97.4 per 100K compared to the national 369.8. Property crime stands at 705.5 per 100K, which is less than half the state average.

Maintaining a Secure Household Environment

While crime rates are low, residents can maintain this safety by utilizing basic security lighting. Simple precautions help preserve the county's reputation as a secure place to live.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Queen Anne's County

via HealthByCounty

Queen Anne's Residents Live Longer, Healthier Lives

Queen Anne's life expectancy of 79.6 years ranks well above the U.S. average of 76.4 years, with only 14.5% reporting poor or fair health versus 17.3% nationally. This advantage suggests strong preventive care and lower chronic disease burden in the county.

Maryland's Second-Healthiest County by Longevity

At 79.6 years, Queen Anne's life expectancy tops Maryland's 77.0-year state average by 2.6 years, placing it among the state's healthiest counties. The county's 14.5% poor/fair health rate also beats the state profile, indicating consistently strong population wellness.

Eastern Shore Leader in Health Outcomes

Queen Anne's 79.6-year life expectancy significantly outpaces nearby Somerset (74.0 years) and Washington counties (74.5 years). With only 14.5% of residents in poor health, Queen Anne's demonstrates the Eastern Shore's capacity for excellent health when infrastructure and resources align.

Strong Coverage, Room for Provider Growth

Queen Anne's 6.0% uninsured rate sits below Maryland's 6.4% average, ensuring most residents have health coverage. However, primary care providers number only 32 per 100,000—the lowest among profiled counties—suggesting residents may need to travel for routine care.

Protect Your Health With Insurance Coverage

While Queen Anne's boasts strong overall coverage, the 6% of uninsured residents should explore options during open enrollment. Visit healthcare.gov or contact your county health department to confirm you have a plan that meets your family's preventive and emergency care needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Queen Anne's County

via SchoolsByCounty

A compact and focused school system

Queen Anne's County operates 14 public schools, including eight elementary and four middle schools. This single-district network serves 7,387 students across a mix of rural and suburban settings. With only two high schools, the community remains tightly knit through its centralized secondary education.

High graduation rates lead the state

The county boasts an impressive 96.0% graduation rate, significantly outperforming both the state average of 89.4% and the national 87.0% benchmark. This high performance comes despite a per-pupil expenditure of $9,623, which is lower than the Maryland average. The county's school score of 62.3 reflects a strong return on its educational investment.

Queen Anne's County Public Schools leading the way

All 14 schools in the county fall under the Queen Anne's County Public Schools district. There are currently no charter schools in operation, maintaining a traditional public school structure for all 7,387 students. The district prioritizes a streamlined approach that serves every student from preschool through high school graduation.

Balanced rural and suburban learning environments

The locale mix is split between seven rural, five suburban, and two town schools, offering varied settings for students. Queen Anne's County High is the largest school with 1,209 students, while average enrollment across the county sits at 528. This modest size helps foster a sense of community that is harder to find in larger metropolitan districts.

Settling down in a top-performing district

For families seeking high academic results, homes near Kent Island High School offer access to a top-tier secondary experience. The county's high graduation rates and manageable school sizes make it a premier choice for education-focused homebuyers. Explore the rural charms and suburban conveniences that define this high-achieving Maryland county.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Queen Anne's County

via RiskByCounty

Queen Anne's enjoys very low disaster risk

Queen Anne's County has a composite risk score of just 35.62, placing it well below both the national average and Maryland's state average of 60.22. The county's 'very low' risk rating reflects relatively modest exposure across most major hazard categories.

Among Maryland's safest counties

Queen Anne's ranks near the bottom of Maryland's risk scale with a score of 35.62, making it one of the state's least vulnerable counties. Only a handful of Maryland counties share similarly low composite risk profiles.

Lower risk than Talbot, higher than Somerset

Queen Anne's (35.62) sits between Talbot County (42.37) and Somerset County (59.57) in the regional risk hierarchy. Its position reflects its Eastern Shore geography, which offers relative protection from some hazards while remaining exposed to hurricane-driven coastal threats.

Hurricanes are your primary exposure

Hurricane risk dominates Queen Anne's hazard profile at 78.51, significantly outpacing other threat categories like flood risk (67.20). While your overall disaster risk remains low, coastal storm surge and wind from Atlantic hurricanes warrant attention despite your generally favorable risk position.

Standard coverage plus hurricane readiness

Your county's low overall risk means standard homeowners insurance generally provides adequate protection for most hazards. However, given your hurricane exposure, ensure your policy includes wind damage coverage and consider flood insurance if your home is in a coastal zone or near water.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Queen Anne's County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Coastal Influences

Queen Anne's 57.1°F average reflects a warm humid subtropical climate well above the national median. It receives a robust 46.9 inches of annual precipitation.

Among Maryland's Warmest Counties

Exceeding the state average of 55.9°F by over a degree, this is one of Maryland's warmer regions. Its coastal position helps keep winter averages up to 37.3°F.

Warmer than Kent County

Queen Anne's is noticeably warmer than neighboring Kent County, which averages 56.0°F. Both counties face similar extreme heat, with Queen Anne's seeing 32 days over 90°F.

Intense Summer Heat

The July average peaks at a high 79.5°F, contributing to a hot summer season. January remains relatively mild, averaging 35.4°F throughout the winter.

Plan for High Energy Bills

With over a month of 90°F+ weather, homeowners should prioritize insulation and cooling efficiency. While snowfall data is unavailable, prepare for wet and chilly winters.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Queen Anne's County

via SoilByCounty

High-scoring soil for Eastern Shore farming

The county boasts an impressive soil score of 78.8 out of 100. Its average pH of 5.74 is higher than the state average of 5.31, though it remains below the national median of 6.5.

Balanced textures create ideal silt-sand mix

The soil contains nearly equal parts sand at 36.9% and silt at 36.3%, with a low clay content of 9.5%. This balanced structure allows for excellent root penetration and easy tilling throughout the growing season.

Exceptional organic matter fuels plant growth

At 12.15%, the organic matter content far exceeds the state average of 9.10% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.212 in/in is also significantly higher than the state average, ensuring resilience during dry spells.

Superior moisture retention for high yields

While specific hydrologic groups are not listed in the data, the high soil score suggests a very productive drainage profile. The combination of high organic matter and water capacity supports intensive agricultural use.

Prime conditions in Hardiness Zone 7b

Queen Anne's County is a gardener's paradise within Zone 7b, supporting everything from corn to leafy greens. The naturally rich organic matter means you can start a successful garden with minimal initial soil building.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Queen Anne's County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Conditions for Eastern Shore Lawns

Queen Anne’s County earns a high lawn difficulty score of 62.4, making it much easier to manage than the national average. Situated in Zone 7b, the county offers a balanced environment for several popular turf varieties.

Abundant Rain and Growing Energy

The county receives 46.9 inches of annual precipitation, which is well within the ideal 30-50 inch range. With 4193 growing degree days, the climate provides ample thermal energy for steady grass development.

Sandy Loam Needs Nutrient Support

A soil pH of 5.74 is slightly acidic, so a light application of lime may help reach the 6.0 target. The soil is 36.9% sand, providing decent drainage but requiring watchful fertilization to prevent nutrient runoff.

Resilient Landscapes with Low Drought Risk

Only 12 weeks were spent in drought last year, and only 10.2% of the county is currently flagged as abnormally dry. This relative moisture stability makes Queen Anne's one of the more resilient areas in Maryland for turf care.

An Early Start for Coastal Greenery

You can begin your lawn projects as early as March 29 following the final spring frost. Zone 7b favors perennial ryegrass or fescue blends that can thrive in the county's moderate 79.5°F July temperatures.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Queen Anne's County's county score?
Queen Anne's County, Maryland has a composite county score of 58.9 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 Queen Anne's County rank among counties in Maryland?
Queen Anne's County ranks #3 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 Queen Anne's County, Maryland?
The median annual property tax in Queen Anne's County is $3,503, with an effective tax rate of 0.79%. This earns Queen Anne's County a tax score of 54/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Queen Anne's County?
The median household income in Queen Anne's County, Maryland is $113,347 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Queen Anne's County earns an income score of 97.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Queen Anne's County, Maryland a good place to live?
Queen Anne's County scores 58.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #3 in Maryland. The best way to evaluate Queen Anne's 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 Queen Anne's 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.