Overview
Dowell is a small unincorporated community along the water in Central Maryland. Retirees enjoy the town's tight-knit community, local brewery, and museums. It is a popular destination for active adults who enjoy fishing, boating, and other water recreation.
Climate and Geography
Dowell has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid while winters are chilly. Residents can expect abundant precipitation throughout the year, resulting in 46 inches of rain and 14 inches of snow.
Dowell is located on the southern tip of Calvert County between Black Creek and Mill Creek. Both creeks connect to the Patuxent River, which is part of the Chesapeake Bay. This proximity to the water helps moderate winter temperatures.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
Located so close to the water, active adults in Dowell have easy access to plentiful outdoor recreation. Popular nearby destinations include Calvert Cliffs State Park for fossil hunting and fishing, Greenwell State Park for nature trails, and the Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center for outdoor art.
There are several museums near Dowell for history buffs, including the Calvert Marine Museum, Patuxent River Naval Air Museum, and Jefferson Patterson Park and Museum. The town also offers a local waterfront brewery and antique shops. Neighboring Solomons hosts annual maritime festivals as well.
Residents of Dowell are also just under two hours from the culture and history of Washington, D.C.
Cost of Living & Taxes
The overall cost of living in Dowell is higher than the national average because of high housing and transportation costs. Though housing costs are above the national average, they are slightly below the state average.
Maryland does not tax Social Security benefits, and any retirement income from savings accounts or public pensions are eligible for deductions. Any other form of income is fully taxed. Property taxes are average but can seem steep because of the state's high housing costs. Maryland offers a homestead tax credit to help with these taxes.
Health Care
Maryland ranks in the top 32 states on Gallup's Well-Being Index.
There are two hospitals near Dowell, which are MedStar St. Mary's Hospital and CalvertHealth Medical Center. The latter is rated high performing by U.S. News.