Moving to the Chesapeake Bay State

The Old Line state is a great choice for everyone looking forward to leaving California’s laid-back lifestyle behind. Even though Maryland is the 9th smallest state in the US, it has the 5th highest population density with 594 people per square mile. Currently, the state is home to over 6 million people.

Named after the English Queen Henrietta Maria of France, Maryland is situated in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Compared to California’s Mediterranean climate that ranges from polar to subtropical, Maryland has a mid-Atlantic mild weather with hot and humid summers and short mild to cool winters. Due to its location near the Atlantic Coast, the state is often vulnerable to tropical cyclones.

Housing and Living Costs

The cost of living in Maryland is usually higher than in other parts of the US, but the salaries in Maryland are usually higher as well. If you are among the people that have landed a job in D.C. but are planning to live in Maryland, you will be able to enjoy all the perks of the United States capital without having to actually live in D.C., which is one of the most expensive places in the nation.

Eldersburg, Odenton, Ellicott City, Towson, Severna Park, Catonsville, and Annapolis are some of the most affordable cities in the state. Compared to Los Angeles, the living costs in Maryland capital are 21.2% less expensive, while housing in Annapolis is 47.7% less expensive. You can compare more cities in Maryland with Californian cities on Best Places to get a general idea about various expenses.

Economy and employment

Home to the highest median household income in the country, Maryland also has one of the most diverse and rich economies. In 2015, the state ranked first in the US with a median household income of $75,847.

As a leader in manufacturing services, biotechnology, information technology, telecommunications, aerospace and defense, Maryland is the perfect place to find a job in any of these fields. You can also find plenty of employment opportunities in technology and trade industries, science, engineering, and mathematics.

Things to do once you move to the Free State

While California is known for its uniqueness, especially for its food specialties, atmosphere, and sunny beaches, Maryland offers a bit of everything and is often nicknamed “America in Miniature.” Once you get the chance, visit the iconic landmark of the National Aquarium, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Assateague Island National Seashore, Antietam National Battlefield, the Blue Ridge Mountains, U.S. Naval Academy, Six Flags America amusement park, Burnside’s Bridge, Port Discovery, American Visionary Art Museum, and B&O Railroad Museum.

The state offers many opportunities to enjoy its beautiful nature too, especially since it has four well defined seasons where you can enjoy its mountains, beaches, farms, music festivals, and more.

Moving to Maryland with a car

As soon as you establish your move in MD, you will have 60 days to register your car with the MVA and transfer your out-of-state driver’s license. Keep in mind that in Maryland, you are required to have the appropriate auto insurance coverage in order to register your car. If you have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), you will need to transfer your license within the first 30 days after you become a Maryland resident. To learn more about car registration and how to transfer your driver’s license visit the official website of the Maryland Department of Transportation.