Cities and Towns in Caroline County, Maryland

Founded in 1773, Caroline County is one of 23 counties in the state of Maryland. Historically, Caroline County was formed from parts of Dorchester County and Queen Anne’s County. The city of Denton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 11, Caroline County has a population of 33,386 and area of 326 square miles (844 km²).

List of all cities in Caroline County, MD alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Bethlehem, MD 21609 410/443/667
Denton, MD 21629 410/443/667
Federalsburg, MD 21632 410/443/667
Goldsboro, MD 21636 410/443/667
Greensboro, MD 21639 410/443/667
Henderson, MD 21640 410/443/667
Hillsboro, MD 21641 410/443/667
Marydel, MD 21649 410/443/667
Preston, MD 21655 410/443/667
Ridgely, MD 21660 410/443/667
Templeville, MD 21670 410/443/667

Major Cities and Towns in Caroline County, Maryland

Denton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 5.50 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 4,541 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 21629
  • Latitude: 38.8841° N
  • Longitude: 75.8263° W

Location and History

Denton, the county seat of Caroline County, is located along the Choptank River in the central part of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Established in 1781, Denton grew as a center of government and trade due to its strategic location along the river. The town became a hub for agricultural products from the surrounding rural areas, with steamboats once transporting goods to larger markets. Denton’s development was further boosted by the introduction of the railroad in the 19th century. Today, Denton retains its small-town charm while serving as the administrative and commercial heart of the county. Its proximity to natural attractions like Tuckahoe State Park makes it a popular stop for visitors exploring the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Denton is served by Caroline County Public Schools, with North Caroline High School being the primary secondary school. Major landmarks include the Caroline County Courthouse, which has stood since the early 19th century, and the Museum of Rural Life, which showcases the agricultural history of the region. The Choptank River Heritage Center highlights the town’s role in maritime commerce, and the historic Denton Jail provides a glimpse into the past. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy visiting Martinak State Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, boating, and camping along the Choptank River.

Federalsburg

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 2.06 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 2,739 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 21632
  • Latitude: 38.6968° N
  • Longitude: 75.7735° W

Location and History

Federalsburg is located in the southern part of Caroline County, near the Marshyhope Creek. The town was settled in the early 19th century and named after the Federalist Party, which was prominent during that period. Federalsburg grew as a transportation and industrial center, with the creek providing water power for mills and later becoming a hub for the canning and agricultural industries. The arrival of the railroad in the 1860s further fueled the town’s development. Today, Federalsburg remains a quiet residential and industrial town, with its historical roots still visible in its preserved buildings and community traditions.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Federalsburg is part of the Caroline County Public Schools, with Colonel Richardson High School serving local students. Major landmarks include the Federalsburg Historical Society Museum, which preserves artifacts and documents from the town’s past, and the Marshyhope Creek, where visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and nature trails. The annual Federalsburg Heritage Day celebrates the town’s rich history with parades, music, and family-friendly activities. The Federalsburg Railroad Station, a historic structure, reflects the town’s importance as a transportation hub during the railroad era.

Greensboro

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.99 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,931 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 21639
  • Latitude: 38.9732° N
  • Longitude: 75.8057° W

Location and History

Greensboro is located in the northern part of Caroline County, along the banks of the Choptank River. The town was established in the late 18th century and became a key trading post for local farmers. The river allowed for the easy transportation of goods to larger markets, and Greensboro grew steadily as a center of commerce and agriculture. In the 19th century, Greensboro became known for its agricultural exports, particularly grain and livestock. Today, Greensboro retains its rural character and serves as a residential community with a strong connection to the surrounding farmlands.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Greensboro is part of Caroline County Public Schools, with students attending North Caroline High School. Major landmarks include the Choptank River Park, which provides access to the river for fishing, boating, and picnicking, and the Greensboro Historical Society Museum, which features exhibits on the town’s history. The town’s annual Riverfest celebrates Greensboro’s connection to the Choptank River with a day of family-friendly activities. The historic Greensboro Volunteer Fire Company has served the community for over a century and remains an important local institution.

Ridgely

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.71 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,614 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 21660
  • Latitude: 38.9497° N
  • Longitude: 75.8849° W

Location and History

Ridgely, located in the western part of Caroline County, was established in 1867 as a planned town along the Delaware Railroad. Known as the “Strawberry Capital of the World” in the early 20th century, Ridgely was a major center for strawberry production and shipping. The town’s growth was closely tied to the railroad, which allowed local farmers to transport their crops to larger markets quickly. Today, Ridgely is a small residential community with a rich agricultural heritage, celebrated each year through festivals and events that highlight the town’s historical connection to farming.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ridgely is served by Caroline County Public Schools, with students attending Colonel Richardson High School. Major landmarks include the Ridgely Train Station, a restored historic building that now serves as a museum and community center. The town hosts the annual Ridgely Strawberry Festival, a popular event that draws visitors from across the region. Tuckahoe State Park, located just outside of Ridgely, offers hiking, camping, and canoeing opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Adkins Arboretum, also nearby, provides educational programs and walking trails through native plant habitats.

Preston

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.62 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 670 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 21655
  • Latitude: 38.7124° N
  • Longitude: 75.9071° W

Location and History

Preston is located in the southwestern part of Caroline County, about 10 miles from Denton. The town was founded in the mid-19th century and quickly became a hub for local agriculture, particularly grain and tobacco farming. The railroad played a critical role in Preston’s growth, allowing farmers to transport their goods to larger markets. Today, Preston remains a small farming community, known for its peaceful rural atmosphere and strong ties to the county’s agricultural heritage. The town’s historic homes and quiet streets reflect its past as a center of trade and farming.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Preston is part of Caroline County Public Schools, with students attending Colonel Richardson High School. Major landmarks include the Linchester Mill, a restored 19th-century gristmill that offers a glimpse into the town’s agricultural past. The nearby Preston Historical Society preserves local history through exhibits and events. The town hosts an annual “Preston Parade” and Christmas celebration, bringing the community together each holiday season. The Choptank River and Hunting Creek provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing and kayaking, in the scenic countryside surrounding the town.