Cities and Towns in Dorchester County, Maryland
Founded in 1668, Dorchester County is one of 23 counties in the state of Maryland. Historically, Dorchester County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Cambridge is the county seat. With FIPS code of 19, Dorchester County has a population of 32,489 and area of 540 square miles (1,399 km²).
List of all cities in Dorchester County, MD alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Cambridge, MD | 21613 | 410/443/667 |
Church Creek, MD | 21622 | 410/443/667 |
Crapo, MD | 21626 | 410/443/667 |
Crocheron, MD | 21627 | 410/443/667 |
East New Market, MD | 21631 | 410/443/667 |
Elliott, MD | 21869 | 410/443/667 |
Fishing Creek, MD | 21634 | 410/443/667 |
Hoopersville, MD | 21634 | 410/443/667 |
Hurlock, MD | 21643 | 410/443/667 |
Linkwood, MD | 21835 | 410/443/667 |
Madison, MD | 21648 | 410/443/667 |
21677 | 410/443/667 | |
Rhodesdale, MD | 21659 | 410/443/667 |
Salem, MD | 21869 | 410/443/667 |
Secretary, MD | 21664 | 410/443/667 |
Taylors Island, MD | 21669 | 410/443/667 |
Toddville, MD | 21672 | 410/443/667 |
Vienna, MD | 21869 | 410/443/667 |
Wingate, MD | 21675 | 410/443/667 |
Woolford, MD | 21648 | 410/443/667 |
21677 | 410/443/667 |
Major Cities and Towns in Dorchester County, Maryland
Cambridge
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 12.64 square miles
- Population: Approximately 13,096 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 21613
- Latitude: 38.5632° N
- Longitude: 76.0788° W
Location and History
Cambridge, the county seat of Dorchester County, is located on the banks of the Choptank River on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Founded in 1684, Cambridge is one of the oldest colonial cities in Maryland. The town developed as a major port and shipbuilding center due to its strategic location along the Choptank River, which allowed for easy access to the Chesapeake Bay. In the 19th century, Cambridge grew as an industrial and agricultural hub, particularly for seafood processing, canning, and agriculture. The city played an important role during the civil rights movement, with local activists, including Gloria Richardson, leading protests for racial equality in the 1960s. Today, Cambridge combines its rich history with a modern focus on tourism, commerce, and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cambridge is served by Dorchester County Public Schools, with Cambridge-South Dorchester High School being the main secondary institution. Major landmarks include the Harriet Tubman Museum and Educational Center, dedicated to the life and legacy of the famous abolitionist born nearby. The Richardson Maritime Museum and the Choptank River Lighthouse highlight Cambridge’s maritime heritage. The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, located just outside the city, is a prime destination for birdwatching, kayaking, and hiking. The city’s waterfront district is home to the annual Cambridge Sailboat Regatta and Seafood Festival, which draw visitors to the area.
Hurlock
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.88 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,092 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 21643
- Latitude: 38.6315° N
- Longitude: 75.8676° W
Location and History
Hurlock is a small town located in the northern part of Dorchester County, about 20 miles north of Cambridge. Founded in 1892, Hurlock grew as a railroad town, serving as a key stop on the Pennsylvania Railroad line. The town’s growth was fueled by its agricultural surroundings, with local farmers shipping produce, poultry, and other goods via the railroad. Though the prominence of railroads has declined, Hurlock has maintained its small-town charm and continues to serve as a residential and farming community. The town celebrates its heritage with annual events and has preserved many of its historic buildings and sites.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hurlock is part of Dorchester County Public Schools, with North Dorchester High School located nearby in nearby Vienna. Major landmarks include the Hurlock Train Station Museum, a restored 19th-century railroad station that reflects the town’s history as a transportation hub. The annual Hurlock Fall Festival and Train Rides, which feature scenic trips on vintage railcars, are a highlight of the town’s cultural calendar. The surrounding farmlands and nearby Marshyhope Creek offer outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. The Hurlock Community Park provides recreational space for residents and visitors.
Vienna
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.46 square miles
- Population: Approximately 271 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 21869
- Latitude: 38.4843° N
- Longitude: 75.8261° W
Location and History
Vienna is a small, historic town situated along the Nanticoke River in western Dorchester County, about 15 miles from Cambridge. One of Maryland’s oldest towns, Vienna was founded in 1706 and became an important port and trading center during the colonial era. The town’s location along the river made it a hub for shipping tobacco, timber, and other goods to markets in the Chesapeake Bay and beyond. During the Revolutionary War, Vienna was a significant supply point for American forces. Today, Vienna is a quiet residential community that retains much of its historical charm, with many 18th- and 19th-century buildings still standing.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Vienna is served by Dorchester County Public Schools, with North Dorchester High School located nearby. Major landmarks include the Vienna Heritage Museum, which showcases the town’s colonial and Revolutionary War history. The Vienna Waterfront Park offers beautiful views of the Nanticoke River, with opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The Nanticoke Historic Preservation Trust preserves the area’s natural beauty and historic sites, including the old Nanticoke ferry landing. The town hosts the annual Nanticoke River Jamboree, a cultural event celebrating Vienna’s history and the rich natural heritage of the surrounding area.
East New Market
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.32 square miles
- Population: Approximately 379 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 21631
- Latitude: 38.5998° N
- Longitude: 75.9249° W
Location and History
East New Market is a small town located in central Dorchester County, about 10 miles north of Cambridge. The town was founded in the late 1700s and quickly became an important crossroads for travelers and farmers in the region. East New Market’s location along the stagecoach routes between Cambridge and Baltimore helped it grow as a commercial and agricultural center. The town retains much of its historical architecture, with several 18th- and 19th-century homes and buildings still in use. Today, East New Market is a quiet, rural community with a strong sense of history and a close-knit population.
Major Schools and Landmarks
East New Market is part of Dorchester County Public Schools, with students attending nearby schools such as North Dorchester High School. Major landmarks include the East New Market Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and includes many well-preserved buildings from the town’s early days. The historic Friendship Hall, a restored 18th-century home, offers a glimpse into the lives of the area’s early settlers. The town’s annual events, such as heritage days and local markets, celebrate its agricultural past. The nearby Secretary Volunteer Fire Department and Community Park provide gathering spaces for local residents.
Secretary
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.34 square miles
- Population: Approximately 509 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 21664
- Latitude: 38.6104° N
- Longitude: 75.9474° W
Location and History
Secretary is a small town located in the northern part of Dorchester County, near the Choptank River. The town was established in the 19th century and was named after Secretary Creek, which runs through the area. Secretary developed as a farming and fishing community, with its location near the river allowing for easy transportation of goods to larger markets. While small in size, Secretary has maintained its rural charm and remains a peaceful, residential town with close ties to the surrounding agricultural landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Secretary is part of Dorchester County Public Schools, with North Dorchester High School serving the area. Major landmarks include the historic Secretary Methodist Episcopal Church, which dates back to the late 19th century, and Secretary Community Park, a popular spot for local gatherings and outdoor activities. The town’s proximity to the Choptank River makes it a destination for fishing, boating, and kayaking. The annual Secretary Day event brings residents together for a day of festivities, including parades, live music, and family-friendly activities. The nearby Warwick River provides additional opportunities for exploring the region’s natural beauty.