Kent County Public RecordsMaryland

Kent County, MD, operates 5 public schools, including Kent County High School, serving around 1,800 students. Graduation rate is 88%, and about 28% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school test scores are slightly below the state average. The district prioritizes school safety, with enhanced security protocols and a student-to-teacher ratio of 12:1. Educational programs include STEM, Advanced Placement, and adult education services. Kent County schools offer a supportive environment, but face challenges in academic performance compared to statewide metrics.

As of 2022, Kent County, MD had an employment rate of approximately 55.2%. Key industries include education and health services (23%), retail trade (15%), and manufacturing (10%). Major occupation types are management, business, science, and arts (35%); sales and office (23%). Roughly 75% of workers commute alone by car, and average commute time is about 25 minutes. The majority of residents work within the county, with about 23% commuting to neighboring areas such as Queen Anne’s and Cecil Counties.

Kent County, MD has a homeownership rate of about 72%, with median home values around $280,000 and average monthly rents near $1,200. The local market is stable, with property values appreciating approximately 2-3% annually. Housing types range from historic waterfront homes in Chestertown to rural farmhouses and modern subdivisions. Popular neighborhoods include Chester Harbor and Tolchester. The property tax rate is $1.022 per $100 of assessed value, among the highest in the state, but there are tax credits for primary residences. Rental housing comprises 28% of the market, often concentrated in towns.

Kent County, MD, is recognized for its relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2023, the county reported a violent crime rate of 1.4 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 8.3 per 1,000, both significantly below Maryland averages. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing, and residents are encouraged to report crime via Kent County Sheriff's Office or online resources. Ongoing initiatives and public awareness contribute to keeping the area’s crime and safety levels favorable for its roughly 19,000 residents.

As of 2022, Kent County, MD, has a population of approximately 19,300. The median age is 48.2 years, reflecting a relatively older populace. Gender is nearly balanced, with about 48.4% male and 51.6% female residents. The racial makeup is predominantly White (76%), followed by Black or African American (17%), Hispanic or Latino (3.4%), and smaller proportions of Asian (1.1%) and other races. Kent County’s population is less diverse compared to Maryland overall, and experiences slow growth and an aging trend.

Kent County, Maryland, had 14,322 registered voters as of 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with major parties being Democratic and Republican. In the 2020 presidential election, 50.6% voted Democrat and 47.4% Republican. Polling locations include Chestertown, Rock Hall, and Galena. Key local issues involve education, agriculture, and environmental concerns. Elections are overseen by the Kent County Board of Elections, ensuring fair administration and compliance. Voters can also participate via absentee and early voting, with turnout rates often exceeding 70% in presidential election years.