countyscore
39.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 73.5Weather & Climate 68.5Soil Quality 58.1

County Report Card

About Wicomico County, Maryland

Falling short of national averages

Wicomico County's composite score of 39.4 is well below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects broader challenges in safety and affordability that impact its national standing.

Below the Maryland state benchmark

A score of 39.4 puts the county notably behind the Maryland average of 47.4. It faces more socio-economic hurdles than the majority of other Maryland jurisdictions.

Reliable income and decent schools

The county's strongest assets are its Income Score of 73.5 and its School Score of 55.1. Residents earn a median household income of $72,861, providing a solid economic base for the region.

Persistent safety and cost issues

The Safety Score of 23.5 is a significant challenge for the county's ranking. Additionally, a Cost Score of 15.1 suggests that housing remains expensive relative to the local median income.

Best for mid-income service workers

Wicomico is a viable choice for those with stable careers who can navigate the local safety landscape. It offers a mix of moderate schooling and decent incomes for established residents.

Score breakdown

Tax45.8Cost15.1Safety23.5Health53.9Schools55.1Income73.5Risk39.2Water39.2Weather68.5
🏛45.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠15.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼73.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡23.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤53.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓55.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡39.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧39.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤68.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨58.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱53.3
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

Dorchester County
Maryland
47
Somerset County
Maryland
40.2
Worcester County
Maryland
48.4
Sussex County
Delaware
50.4
Caroline County
Maryland
42
Talbot County
Maryland
56.9
St. Mary's County
Maryland
52.3
Accomack County
Virginia
47

Deep Dives

Wicomico County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Wicomico County

via TaxByCounty

Wicomico's rate sits above national norm

Wicomico County's 0.887% effective rate exceeds the national median of 0.87%, placing it in the 52nd percentile. Its median home value of $238,900 falls below the U.S. median of $281,900, resulting in a moderate absolute tax bill despite a slightly above-average rate.

Just above Maryland's state average

Wicomico's 0.887% rate edges slightly above Maryland's 0.957% state average, placing it in the mid-range of Maryland's 24 counties. The $2,120 median tax bill falls well below the state average of $3,328, benefiting from lower home values.

Affordable Eastern Shore option

Wicomico's 0.887% rate trails Queen Anne's (0.793%) and Worcester County (0.755%), but beats none of its Eastern Shore neighbors. At $2,120 median tax, it's lower than all comparable regional counties in absolute terms.

Approximately $2,120 annually

The median Wicomico County property, valued at $238,900, carries a property tax bill of roughly $2,120 per year. Over 30 years, that totals about $63,600 in property taxes.

Your assessment needs a checkup

With a median home value of $238,900, property appreciation often outpaces assessment updates, leaving owners overcharged. Requesting a reassessment takes minutes and could recover $200–$400 annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Wicomico County

via CostByCounty

Wicomico fights affordability headwinds

Wicomico County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.4% exceeds the national average of 20.0%, driven by a median household income of $72,861 that trails the U.S. median of $74,755. Despite modest absolute rents of $1,238, residents face tighter affordability pressures than national norms.

Above Maryland's affordability average

Wicomico's 20.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks above Maryland's state average of 18.3%, placing the county among the state's more strained housing markets. The median income of $72,861 sits below statewide averages, compounding affordability challenges.

Mid-range Eastern Shore pricing

Wicomico's median rent of $1,238 positions it between Somerset ($938) and Talbot ($1,248) on the Eastern Shore, while its median income of $72,861 lags both. Home values at $238,900 offer some equity advantage, but income constraints limit buying power.

Tight quarters in Wicomico

Wicomico renters spend 20.4% of their $72,861 median income on $1,238 monthly rent—above comfortable thresholds and leaving limited savings capacity. Homeowners allocating $1,245 to monthly mortgage payments commit 20.5% of income, straining budgets for families with children or other obligations.

Relocate with income stability in mind

Wicomico's housing costs consume a above-average share of household income, making relocation feasible only with stable employment or remote work arrangements. The county's lower home values offer entry points for first-time buyers, but wage growth opportunities should anchor any relocation decision.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Wicomico County

via IncomeByCounty

Wicomico falls short of national norm

Wicomico County's median household income of $72,861 sits 3% below the U.S. median of $74,755, reflecting a working-class community that slightly trails the national average. This Eastern Shore county mirrors lower-income regions across rural America.

Among Maryland's lowest earners

Wicomico ranks near the bottom of Maryland counties with a median income 23% below the state average of $94,152. The county's agricultural and tourism base generates fewer high-wage jobs than Maryland's stronger economic centers.

Squeezed between Shore peers

Wicomico's $72,861 median income exceeds Somerset County ($52,462) but trails nearby Worcester County ($81,455) and Queen Anne's County ($113,347) by significant margins. The county struggles with income diversity compared to neighboring Shore communities.

Housing costs strain household budgets

Wicomico's 20.4% rent-to-income ratio approaches affordability concerns, leaving limited discretionary income after housing costs. The median home value of $238,900 is achievable but represents a larger burden relative to median earnings.

Build stability before investing

Wicomico households should focus first on establishing 3–6 months of emergency savings given modest income levels. Once emergency funds are in place, maximize employer 401(k) contributions and explore side income or skill-building opportunities to increase earning potential over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Wicomico County

via CrimeByCounty

Wicomico Below National Total Crime Average

Wicomico County's total crime rate of 1940.0 per 100K is lower than the national figure of 2385.5. This results in a safety score of 96.9 for the county.

Wicomico Safety vs Maryland State Benchmarks

The county's safety score of 96.9 is lower than the Maryland state average of 97.4. Data from seven reporting agencies highlights areas for increased public safety focus.

Wicomico Compared to Eastern Shore Neighbors

The crime rate of 1940.0 per 100K is higher than Somerset County's 1584.8. However, it remains much lower than the rate in neighboring Worcester County.

Analyzing Violent and Property Crime Trends

The violent crime rate of 492.2 per 100K is notably higher than the national average of 369.8. Property crime stands at 1447.8 per 100K residents.

Strengthening Security for Wicomico Residents

With property crime at 1447.8 per 100K, a monitored alarm system is a valuable asset. Residents should also ensure all exterior areas are clearly visible and well-lit.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Wicomico County

via HealthByCounty

Wicomico's Health Outcomes Trail National Averages

Wicomico's life expectancy of 74.9 years falls 1.5 years short of the U.S. average of 76.4 years, and 18.4% report poor or fair health versus 17.3% nationally. These disparities reflect high uninsured rates and potential gaps in preventive care infrastructure.

Maryland's Second-Lowest Life Expectancy

Wicomico's 74.9-year life expectancy ranks second-lowest in the state, trailing Maryland's 77.0-year average by 2.1 years. The 18.4% poor/fair health rate places it among the state's most challenged counties, signaling urgent need for targeted health interventions.

Eastern Shore's Health Trouble Spot

Wicomico's 74.9-year life expectancy exceeds only Somerset (74.0 years) among Eastern Shore counties profiled, and trails Worcester (78.5 years) by 3.6 years. Despite offering 435 mental health providers per 100,000—the highest among these counties—Wicomico's overall health profile lags, indicating broader systemic challenges.

Highest Uninsured Rate Fuels Health Disparities

Wicomico's 8.0% uninsured rate ranks highest among profiled counties and nearly 25% above Maryland's 6.4% average, leaving many without preventive coverage. With 64 primary care providers per 100,000, the county has moderate capacity, but coverage gaps prevent many from utilizing available care.

Breaking the Uninsured Cycle Starts Today

Wicomico's 8.0% uninsured rate is the county's most addressable health challenge—use open enrollment to find plans at healthcare.gov. Once covered, work with primary care providers to catch health issues early; preventive care can dramatically improve Wicomico's life expectancy and reduce preventable disease.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Wicomico County

via SchoolsByCounty

A regional education hub on the Shore

Wicomico County operates 25 public schools, including 16 elementary, four middle, and five high schools. This network serves 14,900 students and is managed by a single school district. One alternative school is also available to support students who need different learning environments.

Balancing school scores and graduation goals

The county spends $10,472 per pupil, which slightly exceeds the Maryland state average of $10,395. Currently, the graduation rate of 84.0% and the school score of 57.9 trail the state averages of 89.4% and 60.6, respectively. Local initiatives are in place to leverage the county's investment to improve these outcomes toward national benchmarks.

Understanding Wicomico County Public Schools

Wicomico County Public Schools manages the education of all 14,900 students in the county. There are currently no charter schools, keeping the focus on a traditional public curriculum across all 25 sites. High school enrollment is concentrated in large centers like James M. Bennett High, which serves 1,343 students.

A blend of urban centers and rural outskirts

Wicomico's schools are evenly distributed, with 11 in city locales, seven in suburbs, and seven in rural areas. The average school size is 596 students, providing a medium-scale environment for most learners. The largest campuses are the high schools in Salisbury, while smaller elementary schools offer a more intimate feel.

Living near Salisbury’s high schools

For those moving to the area, neighborhoods near Parkside High or Wicomico High offer a central location with established school programs. The district's higher-than-average spending reflects a commitment to providing modern facilities for its nearly 15,000 students. Research the diverse locale options, from city streets to rural acres, to find your perfect fit.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Wicomico County

via RiskByCounty

Wicomico's risk slightly exceeds state average

Wicomico County's composite risk score of 60.78 sits just above Maryland's state average of 60.22, placing it in the 'relatively low' risk category. The county's risk is concentrated in specific water and wildfire hazards rather than distributed across multiple threats.

Mid-range risk in Maryland's coastal region

Wicomico County ranks just above the state average with a composite risk score of 60.78, positioning it as a moderate-risk county. Its risk profile is shaped primarily by hurricane exposure and wildfire vulnerability rather than seismic or extreme flood threats.

Comparable to Somerset and Worcester, safer than others

Wicomico County (60.78) closely mirrors Somerset County (59.57) and Worcester County (68.19) in overall risk, while exceeding the much safer profiles of Talbot (42.37) and St. Mary's (42.56). Its Eastern Shore location creates hazard patterns similar to neighboring Somerset.

Hurricanes and wildfires are your primary threats

Hurricane risk dominates Wicomico County at 91.57, while wildfire risk reaches 80.85—both substantial threats that account for most of your above-average exposure. These two hazards vastly outweigh tornado or earthquake risks, reflecting your coastal geography and vegetation patterns.

Hurricane and wildfire insurance coverage essential

Wicomico County's extreme hurricane risk (91.57) and elevated wildfire risk (80.85) make comprehensive wind coverage and wildfire mitigation essential protections. Verify your homeowners insurance includes storm damage coverage and consider flood insurance given your coastal proximity—these directly address your county's primary hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Wicomico County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and Wet Coastal Plain Climate

Wicomico County averages 57.8°F annually, placing it among the warmer regions in the United States. Its 47.8 inches of annual precipitation is significantly higher than the national average, fueled by its proximity to the Atlantic.

Warmer Than the Maryland Average

The county's 57.8°F average temperature exceeds the Maryland state average of 55.9°F by nearly two degrees. This makes Wicomico one of the warmer spots in the state, benefitting from coastal air and lower elevation.

Hotter Summers Than Its Eastern Neighbor

Wicomico shares a 57.8°F annual average with Worcester County but experiences more intense summer heat. It suffers through 31 extreme heat days per year, nine more than Worcester's coastal-cooled average of 22.

A Month of Extreme Summer Heat

July is sweltering with an average of 78.6°F and 31 days exceeding 90°F. Winters remain mild compared to the rest of the state, averaging 39.5°F with only 8.0 inches of annual snowfall.

Gear Up for High Humidity and Rainfall

With 47.8 inches of rain and 31 days of extreme heat, residents need high-capacity air conditioning and reliable rain gear. The mild 8.0-inch snowfall average means heavy winter gear is rarely a daily necessity.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Wicomico County

via SoilByCounty

Sandy loam defines the Wicomico heartland

Wicomico County features a soil pH of 5.45, which is slightly less acidic than the state average of 5.31. This provides a solid foundation for the diverse agriculture the county is known for.

Dominant sand content for easy tilling

Over half of the soil—53.6%—is sand, with silt at 20.7% and clay at 7.1%. This light texture makes the soil exceptionally easy to work, though it may dry out faster than heavier soils.

Strong organic matter supports coastal crops

The organic matter content is a healthy 13.48%, which is well above the state's 9.10% average. The available water capacity is 0.167 in/in, indicating a need for consistent irrigation for thirsty plants.

Naturally porous soil structure

Specific drainage classes are not recorded in the data, but the high sand percentage implies a naturally porous structure. This soil allows air and water to reach roots quickly, which is ideal for many specialty crops.

Thriving in the Zone 7b climate

Wicomico is a prime location for growing sweet potatoes and blueberries in Zone 7b. Its high organic matter content ensures that even with sandy soil, your garden has the nutrients it needs to flourish.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Wicomico County

via LawnByCounty

Reliable Growing Conditions in Wicomico

Wicomico County offers a lawn difficulty score of 53.3, slightly outperforming the national average of 50.0. Its Zone 7b climate is well-suited for a variety of transition-zone grasses that can handle seasonal shifts.

The State's Wettest Lawn Climate

Receiving 47.8 inches of rain annually, Wicomico is the wettest county in this group, providing a great natural water supply. However, 31 extreme heat days mean you must watch for signs of heat wilt in July.

Sandy Terrain Requires Careful Watering

At 53.6% sand, this soil drains very quickly and may struggle to hold onto fertilizers. With a pH of 5.45, regular testing is needed to ensure the acidity doesn't lock out vital nutrients from your grass.

Battling Persistent Abnormal Dryness

Wicomico spent 22 weeks in drought last year, and 100% of the county is currently categorized as abnormally dry. In these sandy soils, focus on organic amendments like compost to improve the water-holding capacity.

Planting Around the April Frost

The final spring frost usually hits around April 10, marking the start of the safe seeding window. Tall Fescue is the regional favorite for its ability to withstand the county's 78.6°F summer highs.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wicomico County's county score?
Wicomico County, Maryland has a composite county score of 39.4 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 Wicomico County rank among counties in Maryland?
Wicomico County ranks #21 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 Wicomico County, Maryland?
The median annual property tax in Wicomico County is $2,120, with an effective tax rate of 0.89%. This earns Wicomico County a tax score of 45.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Wicomico County?
The median household income in Wicomico County, Maryland is $72,861 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Wicomico County earns an income score of 73.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Wicomico County, Maryland a good place to live?
Wicomico County scores 39.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #21 in Maryland. The best way to evaluate Wicomico 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 Wicomico 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.