Maryland is a beautiful state located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. It has a rich history, diverse geography, and plenty of opportunities for those who call it home.
But like any place in this country, there are pros and cons to living in Maryland that must be taken into account before making any kind of move.
In this article, we will explore some of the advantages and disadvantages associated with living in Maryland such as housing costs, job prospects, quality of life factors, climate considerations, taxes and more.
Pros of Living in Maryland
1. Affordable Housing
The housing market in Maryland is fairly affordable. According to Zillow, the median home value in Maryland is $392,364.
This is significantly lower than the median home value in many other states such as California and New York.
Additionally, Maryland has a wide variety of housing options in different price ranges. From cozy condos to grand estates, there’s something for everyone here.
2. Job Opportunities
Maryland is a great place to find work. The state has one of the highest median household incomes in the country, and unemployment rates are low.
Additionally, several major corporations such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and Johns Hopkins University Hospital employ thousands of people in Maryland.
3. Quality of Life
Quality of life factors are important to consider when deciding whether or not a place is right for you.
Maryland is home to some of the nation’s best schools, universities, and hospitals.
It also offers plenty of recreational activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and skiing in the state’s mountains.
With additional improvements coming, such as the widespread legalization of cannabis, quality of life can only be expected to get better in the state!
Read more on cannabis use at Veriheal.
4. Climate
Maryland has a moderate climate that varies depending on the area of the state.
The Eastern Shore and Mountain regions experience colder winters, while the Central region is milder with more rainfall throughout the year.
In general, Maryland enjoys four distinct seasons and temperatures typically range from the mid-50s to the low-80s.
5. Plenty of Good Food
Maryland is known for its seafood, especially its famous crab cakes. But there are plenty of other options to choose from as well.
There are a variety of restaurants that serve everything from Latin American cuisine to classic Maryland fare like Old Bay stew and pit beef sandwiches.
Cons of Living in Maryland
1. Lack of Public Transportation
Public transportation in Maryland is limited. While there are a few buses and rail lines, they don’t cover the entire state.
This can be a major drawback for those who rely on public transportation to get around.
For those that don’t drive, or don’t want to, it can be difficult to get around. Even if you do – it is still difficult to commute (see con #3!)
2. Cost of Living
The cost of living in Maryland is higher than the national average, but it varies depending on the area you live in.
Major cities such as Baltimore and Annapolis have higher costs of living due to their popularity among travelers and businesses.
3. Traffic Congestion
Traffic congestion is a common issue in Maryland, especially in the larger cities.
Highways such as I-495 and I-95 are known for their busy rush hour traffic which can make commuting to work difficult.
Even rural areas experience occasional traffic jams due to tourists visiting the state’s attractions.
4. Pollution
Pollution is another downside to living in Maryland.
The state’s air quality is generally good, but some areas have been affected by heavy industry or power plants that cause pollutants to be released into the atmosphere.
Additionally, water pollution is an issue due to stormwater runoff and sewage overflows.
Conclusion
Overall, living in Maryland has both pros and cons. From affordable housing to job opportunities, the state offers plenty of advantages for those looking to call it home.
While there are also a number of cons to living in Maryland, it largely depends on where you’re living and whether aspects like commuting are involved in your day-to-day life.
Overall there’s something for everyone in Maryland regardless of what they’re looking for from life.
Whether it’s taking advantage of the recreational activities or enjoying one of its many beaches, anyone who decides to make their home in Maryland will find plenty to love about this beautiful state!