Mind the Gap
$0

Per person. Per year. That’s what Montgomery County spends — every single year.

Fairfax County: $4,435 · Same region · 37% less

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01 / The Gap

The Gap at a Glance

Per capita spending across peer counties. Montgomery County stands out — and not in a good way.

The bottom line

58% more per person than Fairfax

Montgomery County spends 58% more per person than Fairfax County — and your income is growing slower.

FY2026 Adopted Budgets, U.S. Census ACS 2024

02 / Growth

Spending surges. Your income doesn't.

Budget has jumped +32% in six years. Population barely moved.

Budget Growth

+0.0%

FY20 → FY26

Population Growth

+0.0%

FY20 → FY26

Income Rank

0th of 30

Among peer counties

03 / Breakdown

Where $7.6 Billion Goes

MCPS takes the largest slice. Click a segment to see details.

05 / Tax Trap

Same commute. Different tax burden.

Family earning $300K in Montgomery County

~0.0%

Combined marginal rate (state + county income + property)

Thousands of dollars

Annual difference

Same commute to D.C.

Same family in Fairfax County, VA

0.0%

State income tax only. No county income tax.

Is it any wonder office vacancy in Rockville-Bethesda hit 18.9%?

06 / Act

Your money. Your representatives.

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