Essex, MD
Population 40,670 · Maryland
About Essex, MD
Essex is a mid-sized city in Maryland with a population of 40,670 residents. The median household income is $67,082 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Essex is 40.9 years.
Housing in Essex has a median home value of $253,500 and median monthly rent of $1,307. Of the 17,142 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 9,234 owner-occupied and 6,785 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Essex is 5.3% and the poverty rate is 12.7%. 19.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 30.3 minutes.
How Essex Ranks in Maryland
Cost of Living in Essex, MD
Compared to national averages, Essex has a median household income of $67,082 (11% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $253,500, which is 4% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,307 is 12% above the US average of $1,163. Within Maryland, Essex's income is 38% below the state average of $107,956, and home values are 37% below the state median of $402,447.
Why Live in Essex, MD?
Potential considerations include median household income ($67,082) that falls below the national average. However, Essex’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Essex has a population of 40,670 with a median age of 40.9 years. Compare Essex with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Maryland.
Similar Cities Near Essex
Cities in Maryland with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annapolis | 40,744 | $104,257 | $510,200 | Compare |
| Woodlawn CDP (Baltimore County), Maryland | 40,476 | $78,591 | $269,800 | Compare |
| Severna Park | 39,499 | $168,091 | $633,600 | Compare |
| Clinton | 38,756 | $120,967 | $400,300 | Compare |
| Catonsville | 42,717 | $110,051 | $405,800 | Compare |
| Hagerstown | 43,490 | $49,957 | $207,700 | Compare |
| Olney | 36,000 | $171,766 | $632,400 | Compare |
| Randallstown | 35,975 | $88,544 | $306,000 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Maryland
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Essex
What is the population of Essex, MD?
The population of Essex, MD is 40,670 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Essex?
The median household income in Essex, MD is $67,082 per year.
What is the median home value in Essex?
The median home value in Essex, MD is $253,500.
What is the average rent in Essex?
The median monthly rent in Essex, MD is $1,307.
What is the unemployment rate in Essex?
The unemployment rate in Essex, MD is 5.3%.