Zip Code 21217
MD · Population: 31,634
About Zip Code 21217
Zip code 21217 is located in Maryland and is home to approximately 31,634 residents. It receives an overall grade of D (score: 34/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
Crime rates in this area are roughly in line with national averages.
Housing costs are a challenge in this area, with home values at $163,400 and median rent of $1,051/month against a median income of $36,665. Many residents face a significant housing cost burden.
Educational attainment is below the national average, with 21.4% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
The unemployment rate of 13.1% is above the national average, indicating a weaker local job market.
Scores are percentile-based: a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that dimension. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau (ACS 5-year estimates) and the FBI Uniform Crime Report.
Demographics & Economics
Score Breakdown
| Dimension | Score | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | 47 | C | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 20 | F | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 42 | C | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 25 | F | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 34 | D | Weighted average |
Methodology
All scores are percentile-based (0–100): a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that metric. Safety uses FBI Uniform Crime Report state-level data (Phase 2 will add zip-level granularity). Economic and demographic data is from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates (2022).