Maryland has a long chronicled history notably starting with the initial explorations of the Americas leading to the state becoming the 4th of the thirteen colonies and named in honor after Henrietta Maria of France, by her husband King Charles I. The geographic location brings an eclectic mix of the northeastern and southern cultures throughout the evolution of the country. Annapolis quickly became the state capital in 1695 as an entry point due to both the area’s seaside and agricultural industries. Annapolis continues to be a beautiful city to explore and enjoy the iconic history of Maryland. Many of the cities still bear colonial influences, in particular in their architecture.
Maryland is home to many well-preserved and beautiful natural parks. Maryland is called “America in Miniature” because of the huge number of national and state parks in such a small area. The geographical diversity of the state means that every park has something slightly different to offer. A great example is the Assateague Island National Seashore and Dans Mountain Wildlife Management Area where wild horses roam on the beach. The Maryland eastern shore offers a wide selection of activities, such as swimming, fishing, boating, and anything related to the beach scene. The Chesapeake Bay is home to all of these wonderful activities that will become a fast favorite as a new homeowner in Maryland. Discover your favorite beach and return to it time and again or explore all the beaches in the state.
Maryland is recognized as one of the wealthiest states in the country providing a diverse portfolio of services to the Federal government. At one point in time, CNBC reported that the highest concentration of millionaires in the United States live in Maryland with 1 in 12 households being worth $1 million or more. From biomedical companies to IT consulting firms, the state has a strong economy with a consistent stream of direct work with the government. There are numerous employment opportunities to enjoy in this rapidly expanding state.
Maryland is not short on entertainment options either. From professional sports teams such as the Baltimore Ravens and the Orioles to great concert arenas like Merriweather Pavilion, the Strathmore Music Hall, and the National Harbor next to MGM Grand casino. And if this isn’t enough, all of the entertainment of Washington D.C. and Virginia are all within reach.
Maryland also offers enjoyable temperate climate allowing residents to experience all four seasons without the usual harshness experienced in other areas of the country. If the summers get too hot and humid, then the beaches are within a reasonable distance to cool off. If the winters get too cold, the surrounding areas of Maryland offer many options for log cabins and warm fires.
Maryland has some of the most sought after neighborhoods, cities, and counties in the nation. The stable economic status relative to the rest of the country makes Maryland a very desirable state to live in. The increase in residents brought in for high-end paying jobs also has had an impact on the cost of living. Maryland overall has high property taxes and high property values with a distinct characteristic of having consistent, but below-average appreciation rates. However, further analysis into the specific desired neighborhoods provide a more accurate view of the micro appreciation that is above average, commonly experienced in some cities and neighborhoods in Maryland.