countyscore
56.9
County Score
Schools 89.8Income & Jobs 88Health 79.8

County Report Card

About Talbot County, Maryland

High ranking on national scales

Talbot County's composite score of 56.9 is significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. It ranks among the top tier of counties in the U.S. for its combined lifestyle metrics.

Leading the way in Maryland

The county's score of 56.9 easily clears the state average of 47.4. This performance cements Talbot as one of the most desirable places to live in Maryland.

Premier schools and low taxes

Education is a major draw with a School Score of 89.8, while the Tax Score of 67.8 reflects a low effective tax rate of 0.658%. High health outcomes also contribute to its high ranking with a score of 79.8.

Water quality and housing costs

The Water Score is low at 32.1, and the Cost Score of 10.3 indicates that housing is quite expensive for most. Median home values hover around $398,300, making entry difficult for lower-income families.

Perfect for education-minded homeowners

Talbot is ideal for families who value elite public schools and a favorable tax climate. It suits those looking for a high-quality community with strong health services and stable incomes.

Score breakdown

Tax67.8Cost10.3Safety47.7Health79.8Schools89.8Income88Risk57.7Water32.1Weather68.5
🏛67.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠10.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼88
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡47.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤79.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓89.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡57.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧32.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤68.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨75.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱57.8
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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Counties with similar scores

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Jefferson County
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Washington County
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Saline County
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Nearby counties

Queen Anne's County
Maryland
58.9
Caroline County
Maryland
42
Calvert County
Maryland
59.1
Dorchester County
Maryland
47
Anne Arundel County
Maryland
45.6
Kent County
Maryland
52.8
Prince George's County
Maryland
32.5
Wicomico County
Maryland
39.4

Deep Dives

Talbot County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Talbot County

via TaxByCounty

Talbot boasts Maryland's lowest tax rate

Talbot County's 0.658% effective rate ranks among the nation's lowest, falling in the 15th percentile nationwide. Despite a median home value of $398,300—well above the national median of $281,900—this favorable rate keeps tax bills surprisingly affordable.

Lowest rate in all Maryland

At 0.658%, Talbot County has Maryland's lowest effective tax rate, nearly 30% below the state average of 0.957%. This distinction makes Talbot a standout choice for tax-conscious homeowners in Maryland.

Beats every comparable county

Talbot's 0.658% rate demolishes Queen Anne's (0.793%), Worcester County (0.755%), and Wicomico County (0.887%). At $2,623 annually, the median tax is lowest among the Eastern Shore's premium-home-value counties, delivering substantial savings.

Just $2,623 on a premium home

The median Talbot County home, valued at $398,300, generates an annual tax bill of only about $2,623. Over 30 years, that totals roughly $78,700—a significant savings compared to higher-tax Maryland counties.

Even low rates warrant checking

Talbot's low rate doesn't shield homeowners from overassessment—still 15–20% of properties are taxed on inflated values. A quick assessment review could yield hundreds more in annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Talbot County

via CostByCounty

Talbot balances charm with affordability

Talbot County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% sits comfortably below the national average of 20.0%, backed by a median household income of $84,378 that significantly exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755. This positioning makes Talbot an accessible destination for those seeking Eastern Shore appeal without premium pricing.

Below Maryland's affordability threshold

Talbot's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio sits below Maryland's state average of 18.3%, placing the county among the more affordable options statewide. The county's median income of $84,378 provides solid income security compared to state peers.

Talbot's Eastern Shore advantage

Talbot's median rent of $1,248 is the lowest among peer Eastern Shore and nearby counties, undercutting Worcester ($1,180 median income advantage) and Wicomico ($1,238). Home values at $398,300 offer strong equity potential on the competitive Eastern Shore.

Rural charm, urban-level income

Talbot renters spend 17.8% of their $84,378 median income on $1,248 monthly rent, leaving ample resources for savings and lifestyle. Homeowners committing $1,580 to monthly mortgage payments allocate 22.5% of income to ownership—a sustainable burden for building equity.

Discover Eastern Shore affordability

Talbot County offers a rare combination: Eastern Shore charm, below-average housing costs, and solid median income that supports comfortable living. Remote workers and retirees relocating here benefit from lower rents than nearby Somerset or Wicomico while maintaining access to quality schools and cultural amenities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Talbot County

via IncomeByCounty

Talbot beats national income average

Talbot County's median household income of $84,378 is 13% above the U.S. median of $74,755, reflecting a prosperous Eastern Shore community. This places Talbot in the upper half of American counties by household income.

Solid middle of Maryland pack

Talbot ranks in Maryland's middle tier with a median income 10% below the state average of $94,152. The county trails higher-income peers like Queen Anne's and St. Mary's, but significantly outpaces struggling counties like Somerset.

Outearns most Eastern Shore peers

Talbot's $84,378 median income leads Somerset County ($52,462) by a substantial margin, though it trails Worcester County ($81,455) slightly and Queen Anne's ($113,347) significantly. The county's tourism and waterfront economy support higher incomes than traditional agricultural peers.

Rents stay well within budget

Talbot's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio is among Maryland's most favorable, providing substantial breathing room in household budgets. The median home value of $398,300 aligns well with median household income, supporting both renting and homeownership.

Invest in Talbot's future

Talbot households have solid capacity to build investment portfolios and fund long-term goals like college savings and retirement. Consider directing savings surplus toward tax-advantaged accounts, real estate investments, or small business ventures that align with the county's growing tourism economy.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Talbot County

via CrimeByCounty

Talbot County Outperforms National Safety Stats

Talbot County's total crime rate of 1173.5 per 100K is less than half the national average of 2385.5. This translates to a high safety score of 98.1 for the region.

Measuring Talbot Against Maryland Safety Standards

The county's safety score of 98.1 is significantly better than the Maryland state average of 97.4. Five reporting agencies provide consistent data confirming this safe environment.

Comparing Talbot to Mid-Shore Neighbors

Talbot's crime rate of 1173.5 per 100K is higher than Queen Anne's 802.9 but remains much lower than the state average of 1638.3. It remains one of the safer options on the Shore.

Understanding Violent and Property Crime Splits

Violent crime is minimal at 164.6 per 100K, far below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is the primary concern at 1008.9 per 100K residents.

Proactive Security for Talbot County Homes

With property crime recorded at 1008.9 per 100K, residents should ensure their homes are well-lit at night. Quality deadbolts and window locks are effective deterrents against theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Talbot County

via HealthByCounty

Talbot County's Health Advantage Is Striking

Talbot's life expectancy of 78.9 years tops the U.S. average of 76.4 years by 2.5 years, and just 14.7% report poor or fair health versus 17.3% nationally. This exceptional performance reflects strong primary care access and high-income demographics.

Among Maryland's Healthiest Counties

Talbot's 78.9-year life expectancy exceeds Maryland's 77.0-year average by 1.9 years, placing it in the state's top tier. The county's 14.7% poor/fair health rate also ranks among the lowest statewide, signaling well-managed chronic diseases and effective preventive programs.

Eastern Shore's Health Destination

Talbot's 78.9-year life expectancy rivals Queen Anne's (79.6 years) and far outpaces Somerset (74.0 years) and Washington counties (74.5 years). With 492 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—the highest in the state—Talbot also leads in behavioral health capacity.

Robust Provider Access Fuels Health Success

Talbot's 117 primary care providers per 100,000 is nearly double Maryland's typical availability, enabling residents to access preventive care easily. At 7.5% uninsured, the county still maintains above-average coverage, though some residents lack continuous health security.

Ensure Uninterrupted Access to Care

Talbot's strong provider network means coverage gaps hit hardest—use open enrollment to lock in continuous insurance. Healthcare.gov and your county health department help identify plans that keep you connected to the excellent care infrastructure Talbot has built.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Talbot County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small scale, big results in Talbot County

Talbot County operates a streamlined system of eight public schools, serving 4,523 students. The landscape consists of five elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools. This focused infrastructure allows for a more localized and community-oriented approach to education.

Top-tier graduation and school scores

The county excels with a 96.0% graduation rate, matching the highest levels in the state and beating the 87.0% national average. Its composite school score of 63.3 is also above the state average of 60.6. These results are achieved with a per-pupil spend of $10,053, which is slightly below the state average.

Spotlight on Talbot County Public Schools

Talbot County Public Schools manages all eight facilities and 4,523 students without the presence of charter schools. The district maintains a traditional but highly effective public education model. Easton High is the largest school in the district, acting as a central hub for the county's secondary students.

Rural and town-based learning hubs

Five of the county's schools are in rural locales, while the remaining three are situated in town settings. The average school size is 565 students, providing a balanced environment between individual attention and social diversity. Easton High and Easton Elementary are the largest, both exceeding 1,000 students.

Invest in a community with 96% graduation

With some of the highest graduation rates in Maryland, Talbot County is an ideal destination for families. Homes near the Easton schools offer proximity to the county’s largest educational resources and community hubs. The combination of strong school scores and a 96% graduation rate makes this a premier market for school-conscious buyers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Talbot County

via RiskByCounty

Talbot County maintains very low disaster risk

Talbot County's composite risk score of 42.37 places it well below both the national average and Maryland's state average of 60.22. The county's 'very low' rating reflects moderate but manageable exposure to natural hazards across all major categories.

Among Maryland's safest counties overall

Talbot County ranks among the lowest-risk counties in Maryland with a composite score of 42.37, nearly 18 points below the state average. Its favorable position reflects a balanced hazard profile with no single threat reaching extreme levels.

Similar to St. Mary's, safer than Somerset

Talbot County (42.37) shares nearly identical risk exposure with nearby St. Mary's County (42.56), while maintaining substantially lower risk than Somerset County (59.57) and Wicomico County (60.78). Its Eastern Shore location provides comparative protection across multiple hazard types.

Hurricanes and wildfire are your main concerns

Hurricane risk reaches 83.19 in Talbot County, while wildfire risk stands at 71.15—both elevated but manageable compared to your very low overall score. These two hazards account for the majority of your disaster exposure despite your favorable composite rating.

Standard insurance with selective upgrades

Your county's very low overall risk means standard homeowners insurance covers most potential losses adequately. Add wind damage coverage for hurricane protection and consider flood insurance if you're near coastal areas, but your low-risk position doesn't require extensive additional coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Talbot County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmest Median Temperatures

Talbot County's 58.0°F average is significantly higher than the national median temperature. It is a wet region, receiving 47.6 inches of precipitation annually.

Much Warmer than the State

The county exceeds the Maryland state average of 55.9°F by over two degrees. It is also wetter than the statewide average of 45.7 inches of precipitation.

Warmer than Queen Anne's

Talbot is the warmest county in its immediate region, edging out Queen Anne's 57.1°F average. It shares a similar extreme heat profile with 32 days over 90°F.

The State's Mildest Winters

January averages a relatively high 36.9°F with only 14.1 inches of snow. July is hot and humid, averaging 79.1°F and 32 days of extreme heat.

Invest in High-Performance Cooling

Prepare for long, humid summers and very manageable winters. With 32 days of extreme heat, ensuring your home stays cool is the top climate priority.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Talbot County

via SoilByCounty

Top-tier agricultural soil in Talbot

Talbot County earns a high soil score of 75.5, reflecting its superior quality for growing. Its average pH of 5.52 is better than the state average but remains below the 6.5 national median.

Equal parts sand and silt balance

The soil is remarkably balanced with 35.7% sand and 35.5% silt. This combination, paired with just 9.3% clay, creates a friable soil that is easy to cultivate and promotes healthy root growth.

High water capacity supports lush crops

The soil holds a high 13.42% organic matter, well above the 9.10% state average. An available water capacity of 0.212 in/in means this soil is excellent at storing moisture for plants during the summer heat.

Efficient nutrient cycling for farmers

Although specific drainage classes are not listed, the high soil score and organic content indicate a very healthy hydrologic environment. These soils are prized for their ability to retain nutrients while preventing waterlogging.

Bountiful harvests in Hardiness Zone 8a

The warm Zone 8a climate combined with rich soil makes Talbot a premier spot for gardening. From specialty flowers to heavy-feeding vegetables, almost anything will thrive in this fertile ground.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Talbot County

via LawnByCounty

Above Average Ease on the Bay

With a score of 57.8, Talbot County is a relatively easy place to maintain a healthy lawn compared to the national median of 50.0. This Zone 8a region benefits from a temperate maritime influence that protects against extreme cold.

High Growth Potential and Rainfall

The county records 4342 growing degree days, the highest in this set, meaning grass grows rapidly in the 47.6 inches of annual rain. Prepare to mow frequently during the peak spring and fall growing surges.

Managing Acidity in Silt Soils

The soil pH of 5.52 is below the 6.0 threshold, which can limit the effectiveness of your fertilizer. With only 9.3% clay, the soil is less likely to compact, but it still requires aeration to ensure oxygen reaches the roots.

Moderate Drought Resistance in Talbot

The county only experienced 12 weeks of drought over the past year, and less than half the county is currently abnormally dry. This makes Talbot one of the most water-stable counties for lawn enthusiasts in the region.

Seize the Long Growing Season

The frost-free window begins April 1 and lasts until November 7, providing a long period for lawn establishment. Heat-tolerant Fescue or Zoysia grasses are ideal for the 79.1°F July average.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Talbot County's county score?
Talbot County, Maryland has a composite county score of 56.9 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 Talbot County rank among counties in Maryland?
Talbot County ranks #5 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 Talbot County, Maryland?
The median annual property tax in Talbot County is $2,623, with an effective tax rate of 0.66%. This earns Talbot County a tax score of 67.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Talbot County?
The median household income in Talbot County, Maryland is $84,378 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Talbot County earns an income score of 88/100 on CountyScore.
Is Talbot County, Maryland a good place to live?
Talbot County scores 56.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #5 in Maryland. The best way to evaluate Talbot 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 Talbot 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.