Florida vs Maryland: Which Is Better to Live In?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 105); Florida has no income tax and has a 23% lower violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Total tax burden is 35% lower in Florida (6.49% vs. 10.04% in Maryland).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 29% lower in Florida ($14,230 vs. $20,124 in Maryland).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 27% lower in Maryland ($1,948 vs. $2,666 in Florida).
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +6.3 pts | 59.9#21 of 50 · B | 53.6#31 of 50 · C+ | +6.3 pts | — | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.6 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -1.6 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$20,198 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$20,198 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$52,838 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$52,838-12% | $368,697 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.55 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -3.55 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -83 (-23%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -83-23% | 328 | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$25,170 (-24%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$25,170-24% | $80,903 | MD |
| High school graduation rateGap +1 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +1 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap +0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | +0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +68,977 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +68,977 | -33 | FL |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Florida or Maryland better to live in?
Florida scores higher overall: 59.9 to 53.6 out of 100, #21 of 50 against #31. Florida leads 7 of 11 categories, Maryland leads 3, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -20.3 | 15% | 45.0#27 · C+ | 65.3#6 · A | -20.3 pts | MD |
| Safety12% of scoregap +12.8 | 12% | 73.1#23 · B | 60.3#37 · C | +12.8 pts | FL |
| Health12% of scoregap -3.1 | 12% | 60.5#19 · B | 63.6#15 · B+ | -3.1 pts | MD |
| Education12% of scoregap +5.6 | 12% | 61.1#23 · B | 55.5#31 · C+ | +5.6 pts | FL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +11.6 | 10% | 61.9#31 · C+ | 50.3#39 · C | +11.6 pts | FL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +15.2 | 8% | 70.2#10 · A | 55.0#35 · C | +15.2 pts | FL |
| Growth7% of scoregap +15.1 | 7% | 44.9#20 · B | 29.8#37 · C | +15.1 pts | FL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +2.7 | 7% | 43.6#39 · C | 40.9#45 · D | +2.7 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +5.2 | 7% | 26.9#36 · C | 21.7#46 · D | +5.2 pts | FL |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +16 | 6% | 27.8#24 · B | 11.8#40 · C | +16 pts | FL |
| Environment4% of scoregap -12.1 | 4% | 34.0#36 · C | 46.1#19 · B | -12.1 pts | MD |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Florida cheaper than Maryland?
Florida and Maryland cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 103.4 vs 105 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $20,198 more a year in Florida after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.6 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -1.6 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -4.4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -4.4 pts-4% | 100 | FL |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.24¢ (-22%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -4.24¢-22% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.34 (+58%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | +$9.34+58% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.24 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.24-7% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$5,894 (-29%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$5,894-29% | $15,633 | FL |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$6,514 | +$33,384costs $41,617 | +$26,870costs $48,131 | +$6,514 | FL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$7,523 | +$24,059costs $50,942 | +$16,536costs $58,463 | +$7,523 | FL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$20,198 | -$10,486costs $85,486 | -$30,684costs $105,684 | +$20,198 | FL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$6,888 | +$36,999costs $38,001 | +$30,111costs $44,889 | +$6,888 | FL |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$4,496 | $25,862 | $30,358 | -$4,496 | FL |
| ChildcareGap -$11,788 | $28,460 | $40,248 | -$11,788 | FL |
| UtilitiesGap -$77 | $4,963 | $5,040 | -$77 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$496 | $11,049 | $11,545 | -$496 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$754 | $9,680 | $10,434 | -$754 | FL |
| State and local taxesGap -$2,587 | $5,472 | $8,059 | -$2,587 | FL |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Maryland?
Florida collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.49% vs 10.04%. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.55 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -3.55 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -8.95 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -8.95 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.2 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.98 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +0.98 pts | 6.66% | MD |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Maryland?
Homes cost 14% more in Maryland: a typical home value of $375,470 in Florida vs $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of income in Florida and $116,485 in Maryland; the median household earns $77,735 and $102,905.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$52,838 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$52,838-12% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | MD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$718 (+37%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | +$718+37% | $1,948 | MD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$8,205 (-7%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$8,205-7% | $100,006 | FL |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+14%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | +0.6x+14% | 4.6x | MD |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| FL | MD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,932 | $2,204 |
| Income needed vs. median | +39% | +13% |
| Five-year change | +20.3% | +13.5% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Miami | Baltimore |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Florida or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income $102,905 vs $77,735, with unemployment at 3.9% in Florida and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 12.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$25,170 (-24%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$25,170-24% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$7,702 (-11%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$7,702-11% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Population growthGap +0.53 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.53 pts | +0.51% | FL |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | FL | MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $213,282$219,680 in Miami | $235,537$244,958 in Baltimore | MD |
| General & Operations Managers | $102,658$105,738 in Miami | $97,222$101,111 in Baltimore | FL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $66,198$68,184 in Miami | $70,989$73,829 in Baltimore | MD |
| Lawyers | $147,977$152,416 in Miami | $152,749$158,859 in Baltimore | MD |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $51,587$53,135 in Miami | $54,859$57,053 in Baltimore | MD |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,359$75,560 in Miami | $76,611$79,675 in Baltimore | MD |
| Civil Engineers | $92,304$95,073 in Miami | $95,492$99,312 in Baltimore | MD |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,307$83,746 in Miami | $84,061$87,423 in Baltimore | MD |
| Software Developers | $126,859$130,665 in Miami | $129,584$134,767 in Baltimore | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $40,921$42,149 in Miami | $43,559$45,301 in Baltimore | MD |
| Electricians | $60,481$62,295 in Miami | $62,449$64,947 in Baltimore | MD |
| Mental Health Counselors | $53,730$55,342 in Miami | $55,677$57,904 in Baltimore | MD |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,177$59,922 in Miami | $59,982$62,381 in Baltimore | MD |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $48,013$49,453 in Miami | $49,774$51,765 in Baltimore | MD |
| Registered Nurses | $85,835$88,410 in Miami | $84,077$87,440 in Baltimore | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $54,421$56,054 in Miami | $55,883$58,118 in Baltimore | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $64,487$66,422 in Miami | $63,485$66,024 in Baltimore | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,725$35,767 in Miami | $33,743$35,093 in Baltimore | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,205$110,421 in Miami | $106,653$110,919 in Baltimore | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,113$69,126 in Miami | $66,648$69,314 in Baltimore | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Florida safer than Maryland?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland (FBI). Property crime runs 1,402 and 1,820 per 100,000. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -83 (-23%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -83-23% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -418 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -418-23% | 1,535 | FL |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Pembroke Pines, FL42 violent per 100K
- Rockville, MD108 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Florida or Maryland?
Florida scores higher for education (#23 of 50 vs #31), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 86.3%. Maryland scores higher for health (#15 vs #19); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Florida and 77.8 in Maryland.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +1 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| Life expectancyGap +0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | +0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.1 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.6 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | +4.6 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Sanford, FLeducation score 95
- Waldorf, MDeducation score 94
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Florida #23, Maryland #31. Health: Florida #19, Maryland #15.
Are more people moving from Florida to Maryland, or from Maryland to Florida?
5,941 households moved from Florida to Maryland and 9,442 moved from Maryland to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 3,501 households for Florida. Movers to Maryland reported an average income of $79,339; movers to Florida reported $140,169. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 9,358 people (±2,214) moving from Florida to Maryland and 16,358 (±3,488) the other way, a net gain of about 7,000 people for Florida beyond the margin of error.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +270,831 (+325%) | 354,112#1 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +270,831+325% | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +201,854 (+208%) | 298,763#49 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +201,854+208% | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +68,977 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +68,977 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.6 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +4.6 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$41,718 (+52%) | $122,539#1 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | +$41,718+52% | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$12,117 (-14%) | $76,134#20 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | -$12,117-14% | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +2.9 | FL |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Florida or Maryland?
Florida is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -14 places | #24score 65.4 | #38score 56.3 | -14 places | FL |
| RetireesGap -18 places | #18score 66.2 | #36score 55.8 | -18 places | FL |
| Remote WorkersGap -13 places | #27score 51.6 | #40score 43.6 | -13 places | FL |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -10 places | #24score 53.9 | #34score 49.1 | -10 places | FL |
| Small BusinessGap -12 places | #19score 62.4 | #31score 52 | -12 places | FL |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -10 places | #26score 44.3 | #36score 33.6 | -10 places | FL |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesFlorida (#24 vs #38)
- RetireesFlorida (#18 vs #36)
- Remote WorkersFlorida (#27 vs #40)
- Young ProfessionalsFlorida (#24 vs #34)
- Small BusinessFlorida (#19 vs #31)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsFlorida (#26 vs #36)
Which cities stand out in Florida and Maryland?
Florida has 80 tracked cities and Maryland has 20; the largest are Jacksonville and Baltimore. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | FloridaFL | MarylandMD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Jacksonville977,670 people | Baltimore573,243 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Palm Beach Gardensscore 64.8 | Bethesdascore 76.7 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Pembroke Pines42 violent per 100K | Rockville108 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | The Villagescost index 85.4 | Baltimorecost index 104.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Westchesterwalkability 15.3 of 20 | Bethesdawalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Port St. Luciecounty median AQI 34 | Columbiacounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Sanford95% graduation rate | Waldorf94% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Westonmedian income $139,825 | Potomacmedian income $236,675 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | St. Cloud+5.7% growth | Frederick+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Florida and Maryland compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Florida carries AAA credit rating and Maryland AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +22.5 · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +22.5 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +18.4 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | +18.4 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.4 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -3.4 min | 25.2 min | FL |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.2 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +7 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +7 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,390 (-55%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$2,390-55% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +3 pts | +4.66% | FL |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Florida AAA, Maryland AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Florida vs Maryland: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Florida is ahead on 27 of 51, Maryland on 12, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | FloridaFL | MarylandMD | GapFL−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +17,197,171 (+274%) · US 6.8 million | 23.5 million#3 of 50 | 6.3 million#19 of 50 | +17,197,171+274% | 6.8 million | FL |
| Median household incomeGap -$25,170 (-24%) · US $80,903 | $77,735#26 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$25,170-24% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#24 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.53 pts · US +0.51% | +0.85%#13 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.53 pts | +0.51% | FL |
| GDP per capitaGap -$7,702 (-11%) · US $64,333 | $60,655#29 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$7,702-11% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.2 pts · US +1.91% | +3.5%#4 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +1.2 pts | +1.91% | FL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -83 (-23%) · US 328 | 275#23 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -83-23% | 328 | FL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -418 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,402#20 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -418-23% | 1,535 | FL |
| High school graduation rateGap +1 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#19 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +1 pts | 85.62% | FL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +9 · US 237 | 243#3 of 50 | 234#39 of 50 | +9 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 267#41 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 214 | 218#10 of 50 | 216#20 of 50 | +3 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 253#43 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#19 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | +0.1 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -3.1 pts · US 34.03% | 29.6%#8 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | -3.1 pts | 34.03% | FL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +4.6 pts · US 7.6% | 10.9%#45 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | +4.6 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$52,838 (-12%) · US $368,697 | $375,470#28 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$52,838-12% | $368,697 | FL |
| Home value change, one yearGap -1.5 pts · US +1.2% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | -1.5 pts | +1.2% | MD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$718 (+37%) · US $1,948 | $2,666#46 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | +$718+37% | $1,948 | MD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$8,205 (-7%) · US $100,006 | $108,280#31 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$8,205-7% | $100,006 | FL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -1.6 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 103.4#40 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -1.6 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.6x (+14%) · US 4.6x | 4.8x#33 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | +0.6x+14% | 4.6x | MD |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.24¢ (-22%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.24¢/kWh#23 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -4.24¢-22% | 17.84¢/kWh | FL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.34 (+58%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $25.48/Mcf#49 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | +$9.34+58% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.24 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.08/gal#12 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.24-7% | $3.32/gal | FL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -4.4 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 98.1#33 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -4.4 pts-4% | 100 | FL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$5,894 (-29%) · US $15,633 | $14,230#22 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$5,894-29% | $15,633 | FL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -3.55 pts · US 8.74% | 6.49%#6 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -3.55 pts | 8.74% | FL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -8.95 pts · US 5.46% | none#5 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -8.95 pts | 5.46% | FL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.2 pts · US 1.02% | 0.82%#23 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.98 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#24 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +0.98 pts | 6.66% | MD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#8 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.2 pts · US 12.39% | 11.7%#20 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | +4.2 pts | 12.39% | FL |
| Pension funded ratioGap +7 pts · US 74.3% | 82%#13 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +7 pts | 74.3% | FL |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,390 (-55%) · US $3,506 | $1,960#9 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$2,390-55% | $3,506 | FL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3 pts · US +4.66% | +4.8%#24 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +3 pts | +4.66% | FL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 41#29 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#39 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +22.5 · US 29.6 | 22.5#19 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +22.5 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +18.4 pts · US 17.16% | 26.3%#13 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | +18.4 pts | 17.16% | FL |
| Mean travel time to workGap -3.4 min · US 25.2 min | 28.9 min#44 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -3.4 min | 25.2 min | FL |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.7 pts · US 2.29% | 1.3%#21 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -3.7 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.1 pts · US 12.28% | 15.5%#10 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 94.3%#9 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +270,831 (+325%) · US 78,682 | 354,112#1 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +270,831+325% | 78,682 | FL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +201,854 (+208%) · US 78,715 | 298,763#49 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +201,854+208% | 78,715 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +68,977 · US -33 | +55,349#2 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +68,977 | -33 | FL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.6 · US +0.4 | +2.4#9 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +4.6 | +0.4 | FL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$41,718 (+52%) · US $77,690 | $122,539#1 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | +$41,718+52% | $77,690 | FL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$12,117 (-14%) · US $77,024 | $76,134#20 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | -$12,117-14% | $77,024 | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.9 · US +1.1 | +1.0#25 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +2.9 | +1.1 | FL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$20,198 · US -$11,758 | -$10,486#24 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$20,198 | -$11,758 | FL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$6,514 · US +$31,418 | +$33,384#22 of 50 | +$26,870#36 of 50 | +$6,514 | +$31,418 | FL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$6,888 · US +$35,970 | +$36,999#24 of 50 | +$30,111#38 of 50 | +$6,888 | +$35,970 | FL |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Florida and Maryland numbers say when read together.
Florida ranks higher overall
Florida leads 7 of the 11 categories to Maryland's 3, with 1 even; Maryland is ahead on economy and environment. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Florida is ahead on 27 and Maryland on 12.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 103.4 in Florida and 105 in Maryland, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $375,470 and $428,308. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 a year after typical costs in Florida and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Florida takes a smaller share in taxes
Florida collects 6.49% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); Maryland collects 10.04% (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack).
Maryland pays more
Median household income is $77,735 in Florida and $102,905 in Maryland, with unemployment at 3.9% and 4%. Violent crime runs 275 per 100,000 residents in Florida and 358 in Maryland.
People move to Florida on net
16,358 people moved to Florida from Maryland in the latest Census release, against 9,358 going the other way.
Florida fits families and retirees better
For families, Florida ranks #24 of 50 and Maryland #38; for retirees, Florida ranks #18 and Maryland #36.
Florida vs Maryland: frequently asked questions
Is Florida or Maryland better to live in?
Florida ranks #21 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 103.4 vs 105); Florida has no income tax and has a 23% lower violent crime rate. Florida scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Florida cheaper than Maryland?
Florida and Maryland cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 103.4 vs 105 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$10,486 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Florida, and -$30,684 in Maryland. The typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $428,308 in Maryland.
Which has lower taxes, Florida or Maryland?
Florida has the lower tax burden: 6.49% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.04% in Maryland. Florida's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 0.82% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; Maryland's are 8.95%, 1.02% and 6%.
Is Florida safer than Maryland?
Florida is safer: 275 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland, per the FBI. Florida ranks #23 of 50 for violent crime and Maryland #34. Property crime is 1,402 per 100,000 in Florida and 1,820 in Maryland. Florida shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Pembroke Pines, FL, and Rockville, MD.
Are homes more expensive in Florida or Maryland?
Homes are 14% more expensive in Maryland: the typical home value is $375,470 in Florida and $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $108,280 of household income in Florida and $116,485 in Maryland, against median incomes of $77,735 and $102,905.
Do people earn more in Florida or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income is $102,905 vs $77,735 in Florida, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Florida and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Florida's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 1 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 12, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Florida to Maryland or from Maryland to Florida?
5,941 households moved from Florida to Maryland and 9,442 moved from Maryland to Florida in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 3,501 households for Florida. Movers to Maryland reported an average income of $79,339; movers to Florida reported $140,169. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 9,358 people (±2,214) moving from Florida to Maryland and 16,358 (±3,488) the other way, a net gain of about 7,000 people for Florida beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Florida or Maryland?
Florida is the better fit for retirees: #18 of 50 on the retiree index vs #36 for Maryland. Florida has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$36,999 left after typical costs in Florida and +$30,111 in Maryland.
Which is better for families, Florida or Maryland?
Florida is the better fit for families: #24 of 50 on the families index vs #38 for Maryland. Center-based infant care costs $14,230 a year in Florida and $20,124 in Maryland. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 86.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$10,486 after typical costs in Florida and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Is Maryland better than Florida?
No: Florida ranks higher than Maryland overall, #21 of 50 vs #31, with a composite score of 59.9 to 53.6. Florida leads 7 of 11 categories and Maryland leads 3, including economy and environment. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Florida vs Maryland.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (9,442 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).