Calvert County, MD
94,573 residents · 213 sq mi · 443.6/sq mi · 62% rural
About Calvert County
Calvert County is a county located in the U.S. state of Maryland. As of the 2020 United States census, its population was 92,783. Its county seat is Prince Frederick. The county's name is derived from the family name of the Barons of Baltimore, the proprietors of the English Colony of Maryland. Calvert County is included in the Washington–Arlington–Alexandria metropolitan statistical area. It occupies the Calvert Peninsula, which is bordered on the east by Chesapeake Bay and on the west by the Patuxent River. The county has one of the highest median household incomes in the United States. It is one of the older counties in Maryland, after St. Mary's, Kent, and Anne Arundel Counties. The county is part of the Southern Maryland region of the state.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural and suburban environments, with a population density of 443.6 people per square mile, suggesting a blend of community and space. The climate is classified as humid with an annual mean temperature of 57.0°F and 45.7 inches of rainfall per year, which supports a growing season suitable for crops typical of USDA zone 8b. The proximity to Chesapeake Bay and the Patuxent River offers potential for fishing and water access, contributing to self-sufficient living.
Natural hazards include hurricanes (FEMA rank 82) and landslides (rank 69), which pose significant risks to property and safety. Additionally, the area experiences heat waves (rank 68) and droughts (rank 67), which can affect agricultural productivity. While the violence percentile is low at 4/100, indicating a safer environment, the high median home price of $418,900 may be a barrier for some aspiring homesteaders. The effective property tax rate of 0.90% is relatively moderate but should be factored into overall living costs.
This county may appeal to those who prioritize access to urban amenities while still enjoying a rural lifestyle. Individuals seeking a balanced environment with the potential for self-sufficiency might thrive here, especially if they can accommodate the higher housing costs. However, those looking for extreme remoteness or who are sensitive to natural disaster risks may find this area less suitable. The combination of water access and a strong economy could be a hidden gem for the right homesteader.