Dorchester County

Welcome to Dorchester County, Maryland

Where open shoreline, rich traditions, and natural beauty meet on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

Dorchester County is a destination that captures the spirit of Maryland’s Eastern Shore—wide open landscapes, serene waterways, and a lifestyle that moves with the rhythm of the tide. Anchored by the historic town of Cambridge, this region offers a deeply rooted sense of place shaped by heritage, community traditions, and the splendor of the natural world. With miles of shoreline and access to the Choptank River and Chesapeake Bay, it’s no wonder this area attracts both adventurers and those in search of a peaceful retreat.

The beauty of Dorchester lies in its contrasts. You’ll find rustic farmland alongside luxury accommodations like the Hyatt Chesapeake, and local crab shacks within reach of nationally protected wildlife habitats. This is a town where heritage festivals still fill the calendar, and where every road seems to lead to water. Whether you're drawn by the call of open land or the reflection of sunrise on the bay, Dorchester County delivers a lifestyle that is both grounded and inspiring.

What to Love

Expansive shorelines and panoramic water views
A close-knit community proud of its local traditions
Rich wildlife and protected lands are perfect for exploration
Outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and hiking
Iconic local institutions that blend comfort with heritage

Local Lifestyle

Dorchester County offers a lifestyle that centers on nature, heritage, and community. Residents enjoy a slower, more intentional pace, where weekends might include paddling through Blackwater Refuge, visiting the local farmer’s market at Emily’s Produce, or watching skipjacks sail from the marina. There’s a strong sense of tradition here, passed down through generations of watermen and farmers, yet the area remains welcoming and dynamic for newcomers. It's an ideal setting for those who crave space, quiet, and connection to nature and to neighbors.

Dining and Shopping

Cambridge and its surroundings are home to an evolving dining scene, with local chefs, artisans, and entrepreneurs celebrating the area's bounty. The Blackwater Bakery is a beloved local spot for breakfast and lunch, where everything is made from scratch and the menu features local ingredients. For something with a little more flair, Blue Ruin is known for its creative cocktails and seasonal menus in an upbeat, historic setting.

Emily’s Produce is both a farm market and a gathering place, offering fresh-picked produce, local honey, jams, and picnic-ready fare just outside of town. During the growing season, it’s the place to be for homemade pies, harvest festivals, and community events.

If you're looking for upscale comfort and a luxury resort experience, the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina offers dining options with stunning waterfront views, including Blue Point Provision Company, which specializes in locally sourced seafood.

Things to Do and Entertainment

Dorchester County is synonymous with outdoor adventure. The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge offers unmatched birdwatching, photography, kayaking, and nature trails, serving as a sanctuary for bald eagles, herons, and migratory waterfowl. Whether you're hiking, biking, or exploring by canoe, this refuge is a centerpiece of life in the county.

On the cultural side, events like the Nathan of Dorchester skipjack sails keep maritime heritage alive, while Ironman Cambridge draws athletes and visitors from around the world. The county also plays host to seasonal festivals that honor its deep-rooted traditions and vibrant community spirit.

Around Dorchester County, MD

There's plenty to do around Dorchester County, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

3

Car-Dependent

Walking Score

26

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Cupcakes And Things, Gunpowder Cafe, and Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park.

Name	Category	Distance	Reviews	Ratings by Yelp
Visit the Cupcakes And Things page on Yelp	Dining	4.9 miles	0 reviews	0/5 stars
Visit the Gunpowder Cafe page on Yelp	Dining	4.9 miles	0 reviews	0/5 stars
Visit the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park page on Yelp Search 4086 Golden Hill Rd on Google Maps	Active	3.49 miles	29 reviews	4.7/5 stars
Visit the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge page on Yelp Search 2145 Key Wallace Dr on Google Maps	Active	2.49 miles	30 reviews	4.6/5 stars
Visit the Blackwater Adventures page on Yelp Search 2524 Key Wallace Dr on Google Maps	Active	1.7 miles	21 reviews	4.5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Dorchester County, MD

Population Households Employment

Dorchester County has 13,324 households, with an average household size of 2.41. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Dorchester County do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 32,612 people call Dorchester County home. The population density is 60.31 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

32,612

Total Population

Medium

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

43.9

Median Age

46.61 / 53.39%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

Less Than 9th Grade
High School Degree
Associate Degree
Bachelor Degree
Graduate Degree

13,324

Total Households

2.41

Average Household Size

$34,780

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married

Single

Divorced

Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes

15 to 29 Minutes

30 to 59 Minutes

60+ Minutes

Dorchester County

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Neighborhood Guides

Learn what makes each of these neighborhoods unique.

Still Pond Galena
Kennedyville
Betterton
Talbot County
Kent County
Queen Anne's County
Caroline County
Dorchester County
Rock Hall
Chestertown
Ridgely
Federalsburg
Preston
Greensboro
Denton
Chester
Queenstown
Centreville
Grasonville
Kent Island
South Dorchester
North Dorchester
Cambridge
Cordova
Wye Mills
Trappe
Tilghman Island
St. Michaels
Oxford
Easton

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Explore Talbot County

An elegant coastal escape defined by historic harbor towns, scenic waterscapes, and refined leisure.
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Explore Kent County

Kent County is a predominantly agricultural area steeped in rich maritime history with a small-town lifestyle.
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Explore Queen Anne's County

Queen Anne's County is the gateway to the Eastern Shore, entering just as you cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.
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Explore Caroline County

Where small-town charm meets natural beauty in the heart of Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
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Explore Dorchester County

Dorchester County, Maryland is known for its heart-shaped borders and offers much to outdoor lovers, foodies, history buffs, and athletes.
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Explore Easton

An artsy, small-town gem with historic charm and upscale flair on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
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