Education, Employment and Housing

Caroline County, MD, has 10 public schools, including 2 high schools. About 86% of adults hold a high school diploma, but only approximately 17% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The schools score 5/10 on GreatSchools ratings on average, reflecting mixed academic performance. The county prioritizes safety, implementing secure entrances and emergency training. Adult education is supported through Chesapeake College partnership programs. Specialized programs include career and technical education, AP classes, and special education services.

As of 2023, Caroline County, MD, has an employment rate of approximately 60%. The largest industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (17.5%), Educational Services (12.8%), and Manufacturing (11.2%). The most common occupations include Office & Administrative Support (13.2%) and Production (10.5%). About 84% of workers commute by car, with a median travel time of 30.6 minutes. Nearly 63% of employed residents work outside Caroline County, primarily commuting to neighboring counties such as Talbot, Queen Anne’s, and Kent.

Caroline County, MD, boasts a homeownership rate of about 76%, with median home values around $265,000 in 2024. Rental options are limited, with average monthly rents near $1,300. The market trends show steady appreciation of 4-5% yearly since 2020. Housing types include single-family homes, historic properties, and some new developments, primarily in Denton and Federalsburg neighborhoods. Property taxes average 1.06% of assessed value. The county offers a rural lifestyle, attractively priced properties, and a lower cost of living compared to neighboring regions.

Elections

As of 2024, Caroline County, MD, has about 20,000 registered voters. The county conducts regular elections for local, state, and federal offices, including primaries and generals. In the 2022 general election, voter turnout was approximately 47%. Polling locations include North Caroline High School and Denton Fire Hall. Key issues are education funding and agricultural policies. The Board of Elections administers voting, ensuring secure ballots and access. Party registration skews Republican (approx. 48%), with Democrats at 38% and Unaffiliated at 14%. Detailed results and polling sites are posted on the Caroline County Board of Elections website.

Demographics

As of 2023, Caroline County, MD has an estimated population of about 34,600. The median age is approximately 40 years, with 49% male and 51% female residents. Racially, the county is 74% White, 15% Black or African American, 7% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Asian, and 3% multiracial. The population under 18 accounts for around 22%, while those 65 and older make up 18% of residents.

County Crime & Safety

Caroline County, MD maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported a total of 278 crimes, including 31 violent offenses (such as assault and robbery) and 247 property crimes. The overall crime rate is approximately 10.4 per 1,000 residents, significantly below the Maryland average of 21.7. Local law enforcement regularly publishes data and encourages community reporting via online and phone methods, helping to ensure effective monitoring and response for public safety.