Carroll County Public RecordsMaryland

Carroll County, MD, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported a violent crime rate of 59 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 878 per 100,000—both significantly lower than Maryland’s average. The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office encourages proactive community reporting, resulting in high clearance rates. Overall, the region is considered one of Maryland’s safest, with steady declines in both violent and property crimes over recent years.

Carroll County, MD boasts 23 public elementary, 8 middle, and 7 high schools, with a graduation rate of 94%. About 37% of adults hold at least a bachelor’s degree. The county’s average SAT score is 1150, above state and national averages. School safety initiatives are robust, including SROs in every high school. Carroll County Public Schools offer extensive Advanced Placement and career/technology programs. Adult education is supported by Carroll Community College serving over 3,500 students annually.

As of 2023, Carroll County, MD has an employment rate of approximately 65%. Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (16%), Retail Trade (11%), and Manufacturing (10%). Top occupations are Management (11%), Office & Administrative Support (13%), and Sales (10%). About 80% of employed residents commute outside the county, primarily to Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Howard County, with an average commute time of 36 minutes. Local employment centers are Westminster and Eldersburg, but most residents are outbound commuters.

Carroll County, MD, boasts a homeownership rate of about 81%, with median home values around $420,000 in 2024. The average rent for a two-bedroom is approximately $1,600/month. Housing stock mainly comprises single-family homes, with some townhomes and limited apartments. Notable neighborhoods include Westminster, Eldersburg, and Sykesville. Property values have risen roughly 5% annually since 2020. Property tax rates average $1.018 per $100 assessed value. The area is popular for suburban living, reputable schools, and a strong sense of community.

Carroll County, MD, had approximately 126,000 registered voters in 2022, with registration split among Republicans (46%), Democrats (33%), and unaffiliated or other parties (21%). The county conducts primary and general elections for federal, state, and local offices, reporting nearly 62% voter turnout in the 2022 general election. Polling locations number over 20 across the county, overseen by the Carroll County Board of Elections. Recent issues include school funding and property taxes. Republicans dominate local election results, typically winning by margins exceeding 20%. Voting options include in-person, mail-in, and early voting at designated centers.

As of the 2020 Census, Carroll County, MD, has a population of approximately 172,891. The median age is 43.7 years, with 49.7% male and 50.3% female residents. The county is predominantly White (88.6%), with African Americans at 3.5%, Asians 2.3%, and Hispanic or Latino individuals making up 3.6% of the population. Other races and multiracial individuals comprise about 2%.