countyscore
44.6
County Score
Income & Jobs 75.8Schools 73.2Water Quality 61.5

County Report Card

About Washington County, Maryland

Trailing the national median score

Washington County has a composite score of 44.6, falling short of the national median of 50.0. It occupies a mid-to-low rank when compared to the full spectrum of U.S. counties.

Slightly behind the Maryland average

The county's 44.6 score sits just below the Maryland state average of 47.4. It offers a more modest lifestyle profile compared to the wealthier counties surrounding Baltimore and D.C.

Strong schools and steady income

The county performs well in education with a School Score of 73.2 and maintains a respectable Income Score of 75.8. Residents benefit from a decent Water Score of 61.5, which is high for the state.

Safety and environmental risk concerns

The Safety Score of 30.3 and Risk Score of 31.2 are notable weak points for the county. Affordable housing is also a struggle, as shown by a relatively low Cost Score of 17.9.

Suits families seeking education value

This county is a good fit for families who prioritize good schools but want to avoid the extreme prices of coastal Maryland. It offers a balanced environment for those with stable, mid-range incomes.

Score breakdown

Tax46.1Cost17.9Safety30.3Health56.5Schools73.2Income75.8Risk31.2Water61.5Weather57.9
🏛46.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠17.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼75.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡30.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤56.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓73.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡31.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧61.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨56.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱59.8
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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Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Berkeley County
West Virginia
54.7
Morgan County
West Virginia
57
Jefferson County
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55.9
Fulton County
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Franklin County
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Frederick County
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Winchester city
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Frederick County
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Deep Dives

Washington County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Washington County

via TaxByCounty

Washington County matches national median

Washington County's 0.886% effective rate sits just above the national median of 0.87%, placing it near the 50th percentile. With a median home value of $275,900—nearly identical to the national median of $281,900—the county is a quintessentially average American property-tax story.

Slightly above Maryland average

At 0.886%, Washington County sits about 7% above Maryland's 0.957% state average, ranking it in the middle of the state's tax tiers. The $2,444 median tax bill comes in well below the state average of $3,328, reflecting the county's lower home values.

Moderate taxes among regional peers

Washington County's 0.886% rate exceeds Talbot (0.658%) and Queen Anne's (0.793%) but trails Prince George's (1.153%). The median tax of $2,444 is the second-lowest in its region, providing relative relief compared to pricier Maryland counties.

Around $2,444 per year

A Washington County homeowner with the median property value of $275,900 pays approximately $2,444 in annual property taxes. Over 30 years, that adds up to roughly $73,000 in property taxes.

Appeal your assessment if it's outdated

Many Washington County properties carry assessments from years past, ignoring recent market appreciation or improvements. A reassessment appeal—often a 15-minute process—could save you $300–$400 annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Washington County

via CostByCounty

Washington County meets national norms

Washington County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% sits slightly below the national average of 20.0%, with a median household income of $74,157 nearly matching the U.S. median of $74,755. The county demonstrates solid affordability fundamentals for renters and homeowners seeking stability.

Below Maryland's affordability line

Washington's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio sits below Maryland's state average of 18.3%, positioning the county as one of the state's more accessible markets. The median income of $74,157 aligns closely with statewide norms, offering relative equity among peers.

Western Maryland's affordable anchor

Washington County's median rent of $1,100 is among the region's lowest, $138 below Talbot and $180 below Wicomico, while supporting one of the more balanced income levels. Home values at $275,900 offer strong affordability for buyers seeking Western Maryland roots.

Balanced housing and income

Washington renters allocate 17.8% of their $74,157 median income to $1,100 monthly rent, maintaining healthy margins for other expenses and savings. Homeowners investing $1,268 in monthly mortgage payments commit 20.5% of income to ownership—a practical burden for middle-income households.

Western Maryland's practical choice

Washington County offers genuinely accessible housing costs and median incomes aligned with statewide averages, making it ideal for middle-income families. The county's manufacturing heritage and growing remote work appeal make relocation feasible for those seeking affordability without sacrificing community stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Washington County

via IncomeByCounty

Washington County nearly matches nation

Washington County's median household income of $74,157 is virtually identical to the U.S. median of $74,755—a quintessential American income profile. This Western Maryland county sits squarely in the national middle class.

Below Maryland's stronger average

Washington County ranks in the lower half of Maryland counties with an income 21% below the state average of $94,152. The significant gap reflects the county's manufacturing-dependent economy and smaller metro influence compared to Baltimore-Washington corridor peers.

Outpaces some Appalachian peers

Washington County's $74,157 median income exceeds Somerset ($52,462) and Wicomico ($72,861) considerably, but lags Worcester County ($81,455) and Talbot County ($84,378). The county's position in the Appalachian region influences its lower income relative to Maryland as a whole.

Housing costs manageable

Washington County's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio keeps housing costs comfortably below affordability thresholds. A median home value of $275,900 is achievable for median-income households, supporting stable homeownership.

Start your wealth-building journey

Washington County households earning the median should prioritize establishing emergency savings before aggressive investing. Take advantage of employer retirement plans, open individual retirement accounts, and explore income diversification strategies to build wealth steadily over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Washington County

via CrimeByCounty

Washington County Safer Than National Average

The county reports a total crime rate of 1656.1 per 100K, which is lower than the national average of 2385.5. It holds a respectable safety score of 97.4.

Matching the Maryland State Safety Average

Washington County's safety score of 97.4 perfectly matches the Maryland state average. Seven reporting agencies contribute to this data, reflecting a typical state profile.

Washington County vs Statewide Crime Rates

The local crime rate of 1656.1 per 100K is slightly higher than the state average of 1638.3. It remains a safer alternative compared to high-density areas like Prince George's County.

Analysis of Local Crime Distribution

Violent crime occurs at 361.5 per 100K, nearly mirroring the national average of 369.8. Property crime accounts for 1294.6 incidents per 100K residents.

Securing Your Property in Washington County

Because property crime reaches 1294.6 per 100K, installing a video doorbell is a practical step. Secure fencing and neighborhood watch programs further enhance local home safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Washington County

via HealthByCounty

Washington County Struggles With Health Gaps

Washington's life expectancy of 74.5 years falls 1.9 years short of the U.S. average of 76.4 years, while 17.5% report poor or fair health—matching the national 17.3%. These metrics signal significant chronic disease burden and limited preventive care access.

Among Maryland's Least Healthy Counties

Washington's 74.5-year life expectancy trails Maryland's 77.0-year average by 2.5 years, ranking it near the bottom of the state. The county's 17.5% poor/fair health rate compounds this disparity, indicating structural barriers to wellness throughout the population.

Struggling Alongside Somerset and Other Rural Areas

Washington's 74.5-year life expectancy exceeds only Somerset (74.0 years) among profiled counties, and both trail Talbot (78.9 years) by over 4 years. Despite offering 325 mental health providers per 100,000, Washington's overall health outcomes lag, suggesting mental health alone cannot offset physical health gaps.

Above-Average Uninsured Rate Compounds Access Issues

Washington's 7.6% uninsured rate exceeds Maryland's 6.4% average, and 55 primary care providers per 100,000 falls short of optimal capacity. These gaps mean many residents postpone care, leading to delayed diagnoses and worse outcomes.

Take Control of Your Health Coverage Today

Washington's 7.6% uninsured rate represents a preventable barrier to better health—use open enrollment to find affordable plans on healthcare.gov. Once covered, connect with one of the county's primary care providers to establish preventive routines that can help reverse Washington's health disparities.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Washington County

via SchoolsByCounty

A comprehensive network for 22,000 students

Washington County supports 44 public schools, featuring a robust mix of 25 elementary, seven middle, and 10 high schools. The single-district system serves 22,297 students across the region. Specialized facilities include two special education schools and one alternative center to meet diverse needs.

Strong graduation rates and academic standing

The county's 91.0% graduation rate beats both the state average of 89.4% and the national 87.0% benchmark. With a per-pupil expenditure of $10,273, the county spends just below the state average while maintaining a competitive school score of 61.1. These metrics suggest a healthy and efficient public education system.

Inside Washington County Public Schools

Washington County Public Schools is the sole provider for the county's 22,297 students. There are no charter schools in the district, ensuring a unified traditional public school experience for all families. The district manages a wide variety of school sizes, with an overall average of 519 students per school.

A mix of city and suburban campuses

The locale diversity is high, with 17 suburban, 16 city, and nine rural schools serving the county. South Hagerstown High is the largest school with 1,487 students, followed closely by North Hagerstown High at 1,438. This variety allows families to choose between urban energy and suburban quiet for their children's education.

Choose your ideal school setting in Washington

Whether you prefer a home in the city of Hagerstown or a suburban retreat, you'll find schools with graduation rates above the state average. The proximity of large high schools like Williamsport High provides local communities with strong athletic and academic programs. Explore homes in this county to join a district that balances size with high performance.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Washington County

via RiskByCounty

Washington County faces above-average disaster risk

Washington County's composite risk score of 68.77 exceeds both the national average and Maryland's state average of 60.22, placing it in the 'relatively low' risk category. The county's risk is driven primarily by earthquake and hurricane exposure rather than wind or water hazards.

Higher-risk county in Maryland's west

Washington County ranks above the state average with a composite risk score of 68.77, making it one of Maryland's moderate-risk areas. Its western location exposes it to earthquake hazards and tornado activity that neighboring counties experience less intensely.

Riskier than most neighbors, similar to Worcester

Washington County (68.77) faces greater overall risk than Queen Anne's (35.62), St. Mary's (42.56), and Talbot (42.37) counties, while closely matching Worcester County (68.19). Its position in western Maryland creates a distinct hazard profile compared to Eastern Shore neighbors.

Earthquakes and tornadoes drive your exposure

Earthquake risk reaches 76.53 in Washington County—the highest among this cohort of counties—while tornado risk stands at 61.96. Together these seismic and wind threats account for most of your elevated overall risk, reflecting your western Maryland location near the Appalachian region.

Standard coverage plus earthquake protection

Washington County's above-average earthquake risk (76.53) makes earthquake insurance a valuable addition to your standard homeowners policy, unlike most Maryland counties. Ensure your tornado coverage is robust and verify your policy's seismic protection—these represent your primary hazard exposures.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Washington County

via WeatherByCounty

A Temperate Climate in the Appalachian Valley

Washington County maintains an annual average temperature of 53.5°F, which sits right near the national median for temperate zones. The area receives 40.5 inches of annual precipitation, reflecting a standard Mid-Atlantic moisture profile.

Cooler Than the Maryland State Average

At 53.5°F, Washington County is notably cooler than the Maryland state average of 55.9°F. This temperature difference highlights the county's inland position and higher elevation compared to the warmer Chesapeake regions.

Crisper Air than Coastal Neighbors

Washington County is significantly cooler than Eastern Shore counties like Wicomico, which averages 57.8°F. It also receives about five inches less annual precipitation than the Maryland state average of 45.7 inches.

Variable Seasons with Mountain Influence

July averages 75.3°F with 23 days of extreme heat reaching above 90°F annually. Winters are chilly with a 33.6°F average, and while local snowfall data is limited, the conditions remain much colder than the coast.

Prepare for Freezing Winters and Humid Summers

Residents should ensure HVAC systems are ready for winter temperatures that average near freezing at 33.6°F. For summer, planning for 23 days of extreme heat is essential for outdoor safety and cooling costs.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Washington County

via SoilByCounty

Silty upland soils of Western Maryland

Washington County has an average soil pH of 5.34, placing it right in line with the Maryland state average. These soils are characteristic of the region's diverse limestone and shale geology.

High silt and clay for structure

Silt dominates the profile at 41.0%, while sand is lower than average at 22.7%. With a clay content of 15.2%, this soil is denser than its coastal neighbors and holds onto nutrients effectively.

Impressive organic matter despite low sand

The soil contains 13.44% organic matter, significantly beating the state average of 9.10%. Available water capacity is 0.170 in/in, which is very close to the state benchmark of 0.175 in/in.

Moisture retention in the silty valleys

While specific drainage classes are not provided, the high silt and clay content suggests a soil that holds water longer than sandy coastal varieties. This can be an advantage during dry periods in the Appalachian foothills.

Cooler Zone 7a fits hardy crops

The 7a hardiness zone is perfect for apples, berries, and cool-weather vegetables. Gardeners can leverage the high organic matter to grow productive orchards or large-scale vegetable patches.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Washington County

via LawnByCounty

Managing Lawns in the Western Foothills

Washington County scores a 59.8 on the lawn difficulty scale, making it easier than the state average of 49.8. This Zone 7a area has a shorter growing season and cooler temperatures than the coastal counties.

Cooler Summers and Modest Rainfall

Annual precipitation is 40.5 inches, which is the lowest in this group but still within the ideal lawn range. With only 23 extreme heat days, your grass will face less summer stress than in the Baltimore or D.C. suburbs.

Clay Content Helps Hold Water

The soil features 15.2% clay, which is higher than many neighbors and helps retain moisture during dry spells. You will still need to address the 5.34 pH level with lime to create a hospitable environment for turf.

Navigating Significant Regional Drought

Washington County faced 39 weeks of drought last year, and 9% of the area is currently in severe drought (D2+). This high drought frequency makes water conservation and drought-resistant grass varieties essential.

Wait for the Late April Thaw

Frost persists until April 25 here, so do not rush your spring seeding or you may lose young sprouts to a freeze. Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue are excellent choices for this cooler 7a climate.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Washington County's county score?
Washington County, Maryland has a composite county score of 44.6 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 Washington County rank among counties in Maryland?
Washington County ranks #17 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 Washington County, Maryland?
The median annual property tax in Washington County is $2,444, with an effective tax rate of 0.89%. This earns Washington County a tax score of 46.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Washington County?
The median household income in Washington County, Maryland is $74,157 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Washington County earns an income score of 75.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Washington County, Maryland a good place to live?
Washington County scores 44.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #17 in Maryland. The best way to evaluate Washington 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 Washington 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.