Madison, MD Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Madison, MD Utility & Living Guide

Living in Madison, MD offers a tranquil and scenic experience with its rural landscape and proximity to the Chesapeake Bay

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Madison
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Choptank Electric Cooperative
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Town of Madison Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Dorchester County Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate0.85%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Madison is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are limited, but prices are competitive. Waterfront properties are highly sought after, driving up prices in those areas.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

92

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate0.85%
<p>State 6% + No County tax + No City tax</p>

Maryland has a progressive state income tax with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal views
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in agriculture, tourism, and small business
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, public safety, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited, but the town is relatively walkable and bike-friendly, with some sidewalks and crosswalks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park
  • 🎯
    Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
  • 🎯
    Dorchester County Public Library

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The historic district and waterfront areas are popular for families, offering a mix of old and new homes, and easy access to parks and outdoor spaces. The town's rural outskirts also offer more affordable options with larger lots.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Madison based on your household profile.

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Zoning laws and historic district regulations are in place to preserve the town’s character

The current financial trend in Madison is a steady growth in property values, driven by its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. However, the town's rural nature and limited job market may impact local economic development.

Financial Tools

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📊 Madison — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months bring higher electricity costs due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see increased costs for heating. However, the town's mild climate helps keep utility costs relatively stable throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 21648 has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, with explanation: Madison has some sidewalks and crosswalks, but its rural nature and limited pedestrian infrastructure can make it challenging for stroller use, although the town's flat terrain and scenic views make it a pleasant walking experience

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