Living in Maryland: Pros and Cons

If you’re considering moving to Maryland, you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. I moved to Maryland on September 2013, so as a long-time resident, I can provide some insight into what Maryland has to offer.

Pros of Living in Maryland

Maryland is a great place to live for many reasons. Here are some of the top pros of living in Maryland:

Employment Opportunities

Maryland’s proximity to Washington DC means there is always a high demand for jobs in the area. Many of these jobs are government positions, particularly in Baltimore. Additionally, commuting to DC from Maryland is relatively easy, making it a great option for those who want to live in a quieter area while still working in the city.

Maryland Played a Critical Role in History

If you are a history buff, you will love living in Maryland. Baltimore, one of the biggest cities in Maryland, played a critical role in the American Revolution. It was first established as a port for sugar trade and tobacco, and now serves as a critical piece of history. You can also visit the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park on the Eastern Shore, which provides exhibits about the life of Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad Network.

Beautiful Parks

Maryland is known as “America in Miniature” because of the large number of national and state parks in such a small area. From the beaches of Assateague Island to the Appalachian Mountains, there is something for everyone. Maryland’s state parks offer a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, and exploring.

Maryland is Close to Many Larger Cities

Living in Maryland provides you with a small-town feel while still being close to larger cities. Within a couple of hours, you can be in well-known cities like Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City. You can even take advantage of great transit options like the D.C. metro to get you from Maryland to Washington, D.C. in no time.

Diverse Museums

Due to its location near the capital, Maryland is home to many museums, including the Walters Art Museum and the National Aquarium. Residents also have easy access to famous museums like the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

You’ll Be Immersed in Beautiful Outdoor Scenery

Maryland is home to beautiful outdoor scenery that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re looking for harbors, beaches, state parks, or scenic railroads, Maryland has it all. For an adventure, check out the Assateague Island National Seashore, where you can enjoy outdoor recreation activities and see wild horses. Seneca Creek State Park, located close to the Potomac River, provides immaculate views. And in the fall, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful fall foliage.

You’ll Be Blown Away by the Many Charming Towns

Maryland is dotted with small towns that exude history and charm. Annapolis, located on the bay, is a great place to explore homes for sale. Cobblestone covers the main street, and colonial Baroque architecture styles line the roads. Frederick is another charming town to visit, with beautiful canals throughout the town.

Numerous Beaches

Maryland’s entire oceanfront is made up of stunning beaches, including popular destinations like Ocean City and Assateague Island. There are also many beaches at the Chesapeake Bay, making Maryland a great place for swimming, fishing, and boating enthusiasts.

The Food in Maryland is Out of This World

Maryland is renowned for its blue crab, which can be enjoyed in a variety of delicious dishes, such as steamed crab, crab cakes, and crab chips. If you love seafood, you’ll be in heaven in Maryland. You can also savor delicious oysters, fried chicken, and specialty desserts.

Cons of Living in Maryland

High Volume of Traffic

With so many great job opportunities in Maryland, traffic can be a major issue, especially on routes from the suburbs to Baltimore and DC.

Baltimore is the Only Major City in the State

One thing to consider is that Baltimore is the only major city in Maryland. While Baltimore offers a variety of amenities and opportunities, the lack of alternative large cities within the state can limit options for those seeking a diverse urban experience. This can potentially restrict the range of cultural offerings, job markets, and lifestyle choices available to residents.

Expensive Property Taxes

Maryland has relatively high property taxes, which can come as a shock to those considering moving to the state. However, the high taxes do come with benefits, such as access to quality schools and public services.

High Property Values

Properties in Maryland can be expensive compared to other states, especially in areas within commuting distance of Baltimore and DC. However, more rural areas in Southern and Northern Maryland offer more affordable options.

Limited Public Transportation Outside the City

While Maryland has a rapid D.C. metro that extends to some suburbs, public transportation can be limited outside the major cities. If you live outside the city and need to be somewhere, you may want to rely on your vehicle rather than public transportation.

The Summers in Maryland can be Hot and Humid

If you’re not a fan of hot and humid weather, you may want to think twice about moving to Maryland. Temperatures average around 73-89 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, and August through October are the most humid months in the eastern and southern areas. Thunderstorms become most frequent in July and August, which can increase humidity levels. To protect your home from the heat and humidity, consider heatproofing and using sunscreen.

Bay Bridge

While the Bay Bridge offers fantastic views of Kent Island, Annapolis, and the Chesapeake Bay, it can be a major bottleneck during peak traffic times. The bridge can also be intimidating for those with a fear of heights.

Maryland’s Blue Laws

Maryland’s blue laws may require some planning ahead to avoid inconveniences. Depending on your location, the sale of alcohol can be restricted on Sundays, as well as car dealerships and professional sports teams playing a game in the morning. While the extent of these restrictions has relaxed over time, it’s still good to note if you’re looking to move to the Old Line State.

Overall, Maryland has its fair share of pros and cons. Despite the traffic and high property costs, the state’s beautiful parks, beaches, and museums make it a great place to call home. If you’re considering moving to Maryland, be sure to research the best places to live in the state to find the perfect fit for you.