Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ocean City, MD
Considering a move to Ocean City, MD? This vibrant coastal town of 6,844 residents offers a laid-back lifestyle, with median home prices around $365,000 and average rents near $1,420. Enjoy quick 17-minute commutes, beautiful weather with 62% sunny days, and easy access to beaches and outdoor amenities. While property crime rates are higher due to tourism, the city features quality healthcare, a strong public elementary school, and a relaxed, resort-town atmosphere—perfect for those seeking ocean breezes and a friendly community.
Demographics - Ocean City, MD
Demographics - Ocean City, MD
Ocean City is home to 6,844 residents, with a median age of 56.4, reflecting a mature, established community. The population is predominantly White at 85.6%, and about 7% are non-English speakers, contributing to the town's welcoming coastal atmosphere.
Population:
6,844
Density:
2,450 per sq mi
Median Age:
56.4
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
85.6%
Black:
3.8%
Asian:
1.6%
Others:
9.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ocean City, MD?
Ocean City has a cost of living index of 115, slightly above the national average, with median home values at $365,000 and average rents of $1,420. Residents experience moderate utility and transportation costs, making it accessible for those seeking a relaxed seaside lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$365,000
Gross Rent:
$1,420
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$710
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
115.0
Grocery:
112.0
Housing:
120.0
Utilities:
104.0
Transportation:
107.0
Health Care:
108.0
Miscellaneous:
105.0
Crime
Is Ocean City, MD a safe place to live?
While Ocean City enjoys a vibrant, tourist-friendly atmosphere, property crime rates are higher, with a 1 in 22 chance, due largely to seasonal visitors. Violent crime remains less common, with a 1 in 158 chance, so residents generally feel safe, especially outside peak tourism periods.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
633
Property Crimes Per 100k:
4,512
Crime Index:
5,145
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 158
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 22
Weather
What is the weather like in Ocean City, MD year-round?
Ocean City offers mild winters averaging 28°F to 44°F and warm, pleasant summers from 68°F to 84°F. With 62% sunny days and nearly 47 inches of annual rainfall, the climate is ideal for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities year-round.

Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
44°F

Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
68°F

Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
84°F

Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Local households have a median income of $62,500 and a poverty rate of 10.6%, with most residents enjoying short commutes of about 17 minutes. Educational attainment is strong, with 92% holding a high school diploma or higher, fostering a friendly, well-rounded community.
Median Income:
$36,400
Household Income:
$62,500
Family Income:
$79,200
Per Capita Income:
$41,800
Income Male:
$45,200
Income Female:
$37,600
Poverty Rate:
10.6%
Non English Speakers:
7.2%
Rent:
$1,420
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
17.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.1%
Bachelors or More:
34.7%
Education
How are the schools in Ocean City, MD?
Ocean City families enjoy access to a well-rated public elementary school with a favorable student-teacher ratio of 13:1, and several private school options. Nearby, colleges like Salisbury University and Wor-Wic Community College expand higher education opportunities within a short drive.

Public Schools
Name:
Ocean City Elementary School
Street:
12828 Center Dr
Phone:
410-632-5370
Students:
557
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1

Private Schools
Name:
Seaside Christian Academy
Street:
12637A Ocean Gateway
Phone:
410-213-7595
Students:
80

Colleges
Name:
Wor-Wic Community College
City:
Salisbury
State:
MD
Distance:
25 miles
Students:
7,000
Name:
Salisbury University
City:
Salisbury
State:
MD
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
8,700
Healthcare
Residents benefit from quality healthcare services, anchored by Atlantic General Hospital just outside town, and 91% have health insurance coverage. With 2 physicians per 1,000 people, Ocean City offers reliable healthcare access for year-round and seasonal residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Atlantic General Hospital
Address:
9733 Healthway Dr, Berlin, MD 21811
Phone:
(410) 641-1100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ocean City, MD?
The housing market in Ocean City features a median home price of $365,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $1,420. With a high rental vacancy rate of nearly 16% and a home appreciation rate of 6.7% over the past year, options are plentiful for both renters and buyers.
Median Home Price:
$365,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,420
Owner Occupied Rate:
29.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
15.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Ocean City residents are served by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration in nearby Salisbury, providing convenient access to licensing and vehicle registration services. The office is located at 251 Tilghman Rd and offers comprehensive DMV resources for new and current residents.
State:
Maryland
Department:
Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
Address:
251 Tilghman Rd, Salisbury, MD 21804
Phone:
1-410-768-7000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.