Maryland, also known as the Old Line State, is renowned for its historical significance. It was the birthplace of the nation’s first railroad – the Baltimore & Ohio – and was the site of numerous battles that had an impact on the formation of the United States. Maryland also offers locals many delicious treats, such as the famous crab cakes, and beautiful views that draw millions of tourists every year. If you’ve ever wondered if Maryland is a good place to live, there are many reasons residents will point to yes, but with every new area, you’ll want to consider the downsides. So whether you’re searching for homes for sale in Baltimore, an apartment in Germantown, or wanting to know what life is like there, here are ten pros and cons of living in Maryland.
1. Pro: You’ll be immersed in beautiful outdoor scenery
From harbors and beaches to state parks and scenic railroads, there’s no denying that Maryland is home to hidden gems. If you’re in for an adventure, you’ll need to check out the Assateague Island National Seashore. With 37 miles of coastline, you’ll be able to enjoy outdoor recreation activities and sites of wild horses. Outside the city, close to the Potomac River, is Seneca Creek State Park, where the views are immaculate. And in the fall, you’ll be immersed in the beautiful fall foliage.
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2. Con: Baltimore is the only major city in the state
One potential drawback of living in Baltimore is the fact that it is the only major city in the state of Maryland. While Baltimore offers various amenities and opportunities, the absence of alternative large cities within the state can limit options for those seeking a diverse urban experience. This lack of alternative cities can potentially restrict the range of cultural offerings, job markets, and lifestyle choices available to residents. You can also check out the affordable places to live in Maryland.
3. Pro: Maryland played a critical role in history
Take a step back in time and explore Baltimore, one of Maryland’s biggest cities, serving as a critical piece of history today. Firstly established as a port for sugar trade and tobacco, this city soon became an essential part of the American Revolution. You’ll also find 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.
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4. Con: The summers in Maryland can be hot and humid
Temperatures average around 73-89 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. You’ll find August through October the most humid months in the eastern and southern areas. Thunderstorms become most frequent in July and August which can increase levels. With the heat and humidity, you’ll want to heatproof your home to protect it and ensure you put on sunscreen.
5. Pro: Maryland is close to many larger cities
Maryland is an excellent location for those seeking a small-town feel with proximity to larger cities. Within a couple of hours, depending on where you are in the state, you will be in well-known cities like Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City. Even great transit options like the D.C. metro will get you from Maryland to Washington, D.C. in no time.
6. Con: Take note of Maryland’s blue laws
In Maryland, one drawback to consider is the blue laws. These laws may require you to plan ahead if you want 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. The extent of these restrictions has started to relax as time has passed, but it is still good to note if you’re looking to move to the Old Line State.
7. Pro: You’ll be blown away by the many charming towns
The state is dotted with small towns that exude history and charm. Head to the bay and explore homes for sale in Annapolis, where cobblestone covers main street, and colonial Baroque architecture styles line the roads. Or head to Frederick, and gaze at the beautiful canals throughout the town.
8. Con: If you live in a bigger city, traffic can be an issue
When it comes to big cities and proximity to out of state cities, traffic will become part of daily life. Baltimore and other parts of the state close to Washington, D.C. can become congested with commuters. If you want to avoid traffic, you’ll need to steer clear of these areas or drive on off-peak hours.
9. Pro: The food in Maryland is out of this world
If you love to eat crab, you need to consider moving to Maryland. It’s renowned for its blue crab, which can be enjoyed in a variety of delicious dishes, such as steamed crab, crab cakes, and crab chips. Calling Maryland home also offers the opportunity to savor delicious oysters, fried chicken, and specialty desserts.
10. Con: Limited public transportation outside the city
Other than major cities and the rapid D.C. metro that extended to some suburbs of Maryland, public transportation can be limited to other parts of the state. If you need to be somewhere, and you live outside the city, you may want to rely on your vehicle other than public transportation.
Methodology:The population data is from the United States Census Bureau and the median home sale price and average rent is from the Redfin Data Center.
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Ana is a Marketing Specialist on the Content Marketing team at Redfin, where she has spent the past two years writing about real estate, home improvement, and localized content. Living in the Greater Seattle area, she enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors. Her ideal home is a charming cottage-style residence in the countryside.
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