Preston, MD Utility & Living Guide

⚡ Featured Deal

Essentials for Your New Home

🛒 Shop This Deal Now

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Tier 3 Location

Preston, MD Utility & Living Guide

Living in Preston, MD offers a charming small-town experience with easy access to outdoor recreation and a strong sense of community.

Last updated: October 5, 2026
Total Utilities$280/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
📷 Live Cameras — Preston
Live camera
Live · refreshing...
🌤️ Live Weather — Preston
Loading weather...
Preston's economy is driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and small businesses. The town is also seeing growth in the tourism industry, with visitors drawn to its historic downtown and outdoor recreational opportunities. However, the town faces challenges related to infrastructure and workforce development.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Preston
Loading hazard data...
💼 Calculate Your Future Retirement Income

Moving Your Assets to Preston?

Moving to Preston? Find out how much retirement income you could generate based on your current savings, age, and goals. Calculate Your Retirement Income → Free · Takes 2 minutes · No personal data required
💰 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 Preston Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Carroll County Waste Management
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$280/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$1900/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$900

The housing market in Preston is relatively affordable, with a range of options from historic homes to new constructions. However, the town’s small size means that inventory can be limited. Rentals are also available, but prices may vary depending on the location and amenities.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

96

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

Maryland has a progressive state income tax, with rates ranging from 4.75% to 5.75%. Preston residents are also subject to federal income tax.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$900/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Economic development, infrastructure, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Preston has limited public transportation options, but the town is relatively walkable and bikeable. However, stroller-friendly infrastructure is limited, and parents may need to plan ahead for outings.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Preston Park
  • 🎯
    Caroline County 4-H Park
  • 🎯
    Tuckahoe State Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a charming small-town feel, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and community events. The area around Preston Park is also popular with families, with its playgrounds and walking trails.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

The Town of Preston has regulations in place regarding zoning, building permits, and noise ordinances. Residents are also required to obtain licenses for certain businesses and activities.

Financial Tools

Calculators
Planning Tools

Find Another City Guide

Search by city name or ZIP code to find utility costs, housing data and cost of living guides.

📊 Preston — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Preston tend to be higher in the summer months due to air conditioning usage, with average electric bills increasing by 20-30% from June to August. In the winter, heating costs are relatively low due to the town's mild climate, but residents may still see a 10-20% increase in their energy bills.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 21655 has a property tax millage rate of 0.85, with no local surtaxes. However, residents may be subject to additional taxes and fees depending on their specific location and property type.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, with explanation: while Preston has some sidewalks and parks, the town's infrastructure is not always stroller-friendly, with limited elevator access in transit and some uneven or unpaved walkways.

📰 Latest MD Stories
Maryland Living Report — October 13, 2026

Maryland Living Report — October 13, 2026

Maryland Living Report — October 13, 2026 Finklick tracks 230 cities across Maryland. Total state population: 6,161,707. Median...

Read more →
Maryland Living Report — October 12, 2026

Maryland Living Report — October 12, 2026

Maryland Living Report — October 12, 2026 Finklick tracks 230 cities across Maryland. Total state population: 6,161,707. Median...

Read more →
Maryland Living Report — October 11, 2026

Maryland Living Report — October 11, 2026

Maryland is a state of pronounced contrasts, often defined by its proximity to the nation’s capital yet maintaining...

Read more →
Maryland Living Report — October 10, 2026

Maryland Living Report — October 10, 2026

Maryland presents a study in contrasts, where the bustling urban corridors of the I-95 beltway meet the quiet...

Read more →
Amazon

Get your home essentials, storage, and moving supplies delivered.

Shop Moving Essentials

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.