Kent Island sits in the Chesapeake Bay between Annapolis and the Eastern Shore, connected to the mainland by the Bay Bridge. Two active adult communities here — one of the region's largest planned 55+ developments and an established attached community. Here's what buyers need to know before making the island home.
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Talk to a Specialist →Kent Island is part of Queen Anne's County — the smallest county in Maryland by land area, but one of the state's fastest-growing in terms of residential development. Chester, the island's main commercial hub, sits at the Bay Bridge landing and has grown into a substantial strip of retail, restaurants, and services over the past two decades.
The Bay Bridge (US-50/301) is the only land connection to the western Maryland mainland. Annapolis is approximately 17 miles west. Easton (Eastern Shore urban center) is approximately 25 miles east on US-50. Baltimore is about 40 miles north via US-50 and I-97. Washington DC is 45–50 miles.
The island lifestyle is decidedly water-oriented. Boating, fishing, kayaking, and cycling on the Cross Island Trail (6.5 miles, paved) are the defining outdoor activities. The pace is slower than suburban Maryland; Chester handles daily needs but serious shopping or specialist medical care requires a Bay Bridge crossing.
K. Hovnanian. Largest 55+ community planned in the region. Under active construction.
Stevensville location. Close to Bay Bridge crossing and Chesapeake Exploration Center.
Queen Anne's County's effective property tax rate is approximately 0.86% — meaningfully lower than Anne Arundel (~1.09%) and comparable to Worcester County (~0.78%). On a $650,000 home, that's ~$5,590/year vs. $7,085 in Anne Arundel — a $1,495/year saving.
We connect buyers with agents who know this market from the inside — real cost math, honest comparisons, and what's actually happening right now. Every agent is personally vetted by the Nova55Living founder. No scripts, no pressure.
Kent Island has extensive AE and AH flood zone designations. Check your specific lot at msc.fema.gov before signing. Zone AE requires federally-backed flood insurance if you carry a mortgage — budget $800–$3,000+/year depending on elevation certificate.
Westbound summer weekend backups regularly extend through Chester, past the community entrance. High-wind closures (several per year) strand island residents with no bypass. For buyers who anticipate frequent mainland travel, model your trips around this reality.
| Facility | Distance | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Anne Arundel Medical Center (Annapolis) | ~17 mi west | Requires Bay Bridge crossing |
| University of MD Shore Medical (Easton) | ~25 mi east | No bridge — Eastern Shore route |
| Chester Medical Center (local) | In Chester | Outpatient / urgent care level |
| Johns Hopkins (Baltimore) | ~40 mi north | Via Bay Bridge + I-97 |
| Ft. Meade Kimbrough AMC (military) | ~22 mi west | Military beneficiaries only |
Considering Kent Island?
A local buyer's agent can pull flood zone maps, K. Hovnanian's current pricing and incentives, and Bay Bridge Cove resale comps — all before your first visit.
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