Ready for a new beginning? Maryland might be the perfect place for you! The state added over 38,000 jobs in 2024 alone, plus over 136,000 more jobs in aerospace, energy, and hospitality are projected by 2032. It’s no wonder 162,674 people moved here last year.
Moreover, Maryland’s lifestyle is as rewarding as its job market. From Baltimore’s vibrant neighborhoods to the peaceful Eastern Shore, it blends history, culture, and nature. This blog is your go-to guide for moving to Maryland—follow along and settle in without any hassle.
👉 Maryland Homes for Sale: Find your dream home in Maryland today!
AT A GLANCE:
- Over 162,000 people moved to Maryland last year, drawn by a booming job market and good quality of life.
- Maryland added 38,400 jobs in 2024, with 136,000+ new positions projected by 2032 in key industries like biotech, aerospace, and healthcare.
- Prime location on the East Coast—close to Washington, D.C., Philly, and NYC—with easy commutes via MARC trains, Metro, and BWI Airport.
- Cost of living is about 15% above the national average, but still lower than states like California or New York.
- Mild four-season climate, with warm summers and cold winters; occasional storms and hurricanes mainly affect coastal regions.
4 Reasons to Move to Maryland
Why settle for just sunny beaches when you can also enjoy the high life? Browse through over thousands of mansions, high-rise penthouses, and spacious luxury homes for sale in Maryland, and enjoy the finest the state has to offer.
1. Job Opportunities in Maryland
Maryland’s job market is booming, especially in high-demand sectors like biotechnology, cybersecurity, aerospace, and healthcare. With over 136,000 new jobs in Maryland projected by 2032, the state is quickly becoming a magnet for job seekers and entrepreneurs alike.
Major employers such as NASA, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman are fueling this growth, making Maryland a hub for innovation and opportunity. Maryland’s proximity to D.C. and NYC gives residents easy access to broader career opportunities.
2. Education in Maryland
Maryland serves over 889,900 students across 24 school districts. Top-ranked districts like Howard and Montgomery County consistently rank high in academics, quality, and safety. Montgomery County alone is home to 43 National Blue Ribbon Schools.
The state is also home to top universities like Johns Hopkins University, the University of Maryland – College Park, and Towson University. Plus, the state funds several scholarships and programs that provide up to $22,100 per year in monetary aid to eligible students.
3. Prime East Coast Location
Maryland’s strategic position near major cities like Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City makes it an ideal hub for business and travel. However, coastal areas like Baltimore and Annapolis offer thriving job markets and access to waterfront living.
Additionally, Maryland’s extensive highways and commuter rails, like MARC and the Metro, make commuting easy for work and leisure.
4. Climate in Maryland
Maryland has a mild, four-season climate. Summers are typically warm and humid, with temperatures between 65°F-87°F, while winters are cold, with temperatures between 25°F-42°F. Western and mountainous regions can experience colder conditions and occasional snowfall.
However, Maryland occasionally experiences hurricanes and tropical storms in coastal areas during late summer and fall, though direct hits are uncommon. While extreme weather is rare, residents should stay prepared and follow state safety guidelines.
Pros and Cons of Moving to Maryland
Here are the key benefits and drawbacks of relocating to Maryland:
| ✔️ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. The job market is strong with top employers like Lockheed Martin, Johns Hopkins, and federal jobs. | 1. Maryland levies a progressive income tax of up to 5.75%, plus several counties also levy local income tax. |
| 2. You will have easy access to big cities like D.C. and New York, perfect for work or weekend trips. | 2. Traffic jams are common on I-95 and around Baltimore’s Inner Harbor during rush hour. |
| 3. You will have access to tons of outdoor activities, from beaches to hiking trails. | 3. Be ready for higher living costs, especially when it comes to housing and taxes. |
| 4. Maryland offers four distinct seasons, with a humid subtropical climate in most areas. | 4. Maryland faces occasional hurricanes, storms, and mild tornadoes, mainly in coastal areas. |
Things to Know Before Moving to Maryland ✅
Before entering the Maryland housing market, know the key laws affecting property ownership and transactions.
- Vehicle Registration and Driver’s License: After moving to Maryland, you must register your vehicle and obtain a Maryland driver’s license within 60 days, or within 30 days if you hold a commercial license.
- Pet Registration Laws: Several counties also require dogs, cats, and ferrets over 4 months old to be licensed and vaccinated against rabies.
- Moving Truck Permits: Cities like Baltimore and Bethesda require permits to park moving trucks, which cost around $65 per week. Other places may not need a permit, but always check to avoid fines or towing.
- Recreational Marijuana: Recreational marijuana is legal in Maryland for adults 21 and older. You can have up to 1.5 oz of flower, 12g of concentrate, or 750mg of edibles. You’re also allowed to grow up to 2 plants at home.
- Gun Carry Laws: Moving to Maryland with guns requires registration of guns within 90 days. You must transport them unloaded and locked, and you must follow strict carry permit rules. Assault weapons and large magazines are banned.
Cost of Living in Maryland
The average cost of living in Maryland is 15% higher than the national average. This simply means you will spend more on daily expenses like food, groceries, and utilities. However, healthcare and transportation still cost slightly less than the national average.
Despite its higher cost of living, Maryland is still an attractive option compared to popular states like California and New York, where living costs are 38% and 26% above the national average.
How to Move to Maryland?
Here is the step-by-step guide for relocating to MD:
1. How to Plan Your Move?
Moving to MD involves several costs, including the costs involved in moving your belongings.
- Maryland moving companies typically cost $104[3] per hour. However, this figure depends entirely on your belongings and the distance traveled.
- If you want to DIY your move, renting a truck can be a better option. The average cost to rent a mid-size moving truck with a load capacity of 4,000-6,000 pounds ranges between $40 and $80[4] per day.
2. How to Set Up Electricity, Water, and Internet?
Begin setting up your utilities in advance, as the process can take 3-4 weeks:
- Electricity and Gas: Most of Maryland is served by Baltimore Gas and Electric, especially in the central area. Montgomery and Prince George’s counties are covered by Potomac Electric Power Company, while Western Maryland is served by Potomac Edison.
- Water & Sewer: WSSC Water provides service in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, while Baltimore is served by the city DPW. In smaller towns, water is usually managed by the local government or a private company like American Water.
- Internet and Cable: The cable and internet service providers vary depending on your location in Maryland. Top providers in Maryland include Xfinity, Verizon Fios, and RCN (Astound). Visit the respective website to choose and book an appointment.
3. How to Enroll Your Kids in School?
Most schools in Maryland offer online registration. Just visit your local school district’s website to get started. Here is how the process generally works:
- For Kindergarten or First Grade: Children must be 5 years old for kindergarten or 6 for first grade by September 1st. Keep in mind, the registration typically requires a birth certificate, proof of residency, and immunization records.
- For Older Students: You are required to file recent transcripts, a withdrawal form from the previous school, and proof of address (like a lease or utility bill). Plus, many schools also require health forms or physicals.
- Transfer & Special Cases: If you’re moving mid-year, reach out to the local school district office for special cases like transfer. You may also require consent from the school you are transferring to.
4. How to Transfer Your Job or Find a New One?
- For a Work From Home Job: If you are working from home and moving to Maryland, ask your employer about the state-specific tax and employment laws. Also, see if your new city qualifies for local tax incentives for remote workers.
- Find a New Job: Major employers in Maryland include Johns Hopkins, Northrop Grumman, MedStar Health, and federal agencies. Baltimore and Silver Spring lead in biotech and health tech. Check state portals and LinkedIn for jobs in Maryland.
5. How to Find a Perfect House?
- In popular cities like Baltimore and Annapolis, the average rent ranges between $100 – $9,500[2], depending on your neighborhood and nearby amenities.
- If you plan to buy a house in a coastal city, on average, homes for sale in Ocean City cost around $448K[2]. On the other hand, inland cities like Cumberland and Baltimore offer affordable options with median housing costs of $151K[2] and $188K[2], respectively.
Should I Move to Maryland?
Yes, you should definitely move to Maryland. The state combines new opportunities, a good quality of life, and friendly communities. However, relocating to Maryland isn’t easy. It takes time, careful planning, and effort to find the perfect place to call your home.
With Houzeo, Maryland’s best home-buying website, buying a house in Maryland is simple. You can browse through the latest listings, save your favorites, schedule showings, and submit offers, all at your fingertips.
» NEED MORE CLARITY? Read these exclusive Houzeo reviews and learn why the platform is the best in America’s competitive housing market.
Data Sources
To help you make a smart move to Maryland, we analyzed key data points that impact relocation costs, lifestyle, and employment prospects. We’ve sourced reliable, up-to-date data across the following categories:
- Statistical Atlas: Major employers
- Zillow: Average rent in Maryland
- MoveBuddha: Estimated moving costs
- Thisoldhouse: DIY truck rental rates
By backing our insights with real numbers, we give you a clear picture of what it really takes to relocate to Maryland, long before the moving boxes are packed.
