Georgia vs Maryland: Which Is Better to Live In?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. Georgia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 105), has a 1.6-point lower tax burden, and has a 17% lower violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.8 points apart, too close to call: Georgia leads 5 of 11 categories, Maryland leads 4.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 45% lower in Georgia ($11,066 vs. $20,124 in Maryland).
- Residential electricity price is 24% lower in Georgia (14.73¢/kWh vs. 19.48¢/kWh in Maryland).
- Typical home value is 23% lower in Georgia ($330,817 vs. $428,308 in Maryland).
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +1.8 pts | 55.4#26 of 50 · B | 53.6#31 of 50 · C+ | +1.8 pts | — | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.7 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -8.7 pts-8% | 100 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$27,884 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$27,884 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$97,491 (-23%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$97,491-23% | $368,697 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.57 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.57 pts | 8.74% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -61 (-17%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -61-17% | 328 | GA |
| Median household incomeGap -$22,914 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$22,914-22% | $80,903 | MD |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 85.62% | MD |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +28,299 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +28,299 | -33 | GA |
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 Georgia or Maryland better to live in?
Georgia scores 55.4 and Maryland scores 53.6 out of 100, a 1.8-point gap this site treats as even. Georgia leads 5 of 11 categories, Maryland leads 4, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -11.2 | 15% | 54.1#14 · B+ | 65.3#6 · A | -11.2 pts | MD |
| Safety12% of scoregap +10.9 | 12% | 71.2#26 · B | 60.3#37 · C | +10.9 pts | GA |
| Health12% of scoregap -24.1 | 12% | 39.5#40 · C | 63.6#15 · B+ | -24.1 pts | MD |
| Education12% of scoregap -2.4 | 12% | 53.1#34 · C+ | 55.5#31 · C+ | -2.4 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +22.8 | 10% | 73.1#23 · B | 50.3#39 · C | +22.8 pts | GA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +14.7 | 8% | 69.7#12 · B+ | 55.0#35 · C | +14.7 pts | GA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +21.7 | 7% | 51.5#10 · A | 29.8#37 · C | +21.7 pts | GA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -2.2 | 7% | 38.7#47 · D | 40.9#45 · D | -2.2 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +6.4 | 7% | 28.1#33 · C+ | 21.7#46 · D | +6.4 pts | GA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -4.2 | 6% | 7.6#46 · D | 11.8#40 · C | -4.2 pts | MD |
| Environment4% of scoregap -14 | 4% | 32.1#38 · C | 46.1#19 · B | -14 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 Georgia cheaper than Maryland?
Georgia is cheaper: cost of living index 96.3 vs 105 in Maryland (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $27,884 more a year in Georgia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.7 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -8.7 pts-8% | 100 | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -3.6 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -3.6 pts-4% | 100 | GA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.75¢ (-24%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -4.75¢-24% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.28 (+27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | +$4.28+27% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.37 (-11%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.37-11% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$9,058 (-45%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$9,058-45% | $15,633 | GA |
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 | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$5,315 | +$32,185costs $42,816 | +$26,870costs $48,131 | +$5,315 | GA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$7,714 | +$24,250costs $50,750 | +$16,536costs $58,463 | +$7,714 | GA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$27,884 | -$2,800costs $77,800 | -$30,684costs $105,684 | +$27,884 | GA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$6,674 | +$36,785costs $38,215 | +$30,111costs $44,889 | +$6,674 | GA |
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 | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$7,539 | $22,819 | $30,358 | -$7,539 | GA |
| ChildcareGap -$18,116 | $22,132 | $40,248 | -$18,116 | GA |
| UtilitiesGap -$418 | $4,622 | $5,040 | -$418 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$406 | $11,139 | $11,545 | -$406 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$1,163 | $9,271 | $10,434 | -$1,163 | GA |
| State and local taxesGap -$242 | $7,817 | $8,059 | -$242 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Maryland?
Georgia collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.47% vs 10.04%. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.57 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.57 pts | 8.74% | GA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.56 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -3.56 pts | 5.46% | GA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.19 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | -0.19 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.49 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +1.49 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 Georgia or Maryland?
Homes cost 29% more in Maryland: a typical home value of $330,817 in Georgia vs $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of income in Georgia and $116,485 in Maryland; the median household earns $79,991 and $102,905.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$97,491 (-23%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$97,491-23% | $368,697 | GA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.2% | MD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$95 (-5%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | -$95-5% | $1,948 | GA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$25,990 (-22%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$25,990-22% | $100,006 | GA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-2%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | -0.1x-2% | 4.6x | Even |
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.
| GA | MD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,702 | $2,204 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | +13% |
| Five-year change | +22.2% | +13.5% |
| Market temperature | Cold | Cool |
| Largest metro | Atlanta | 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 Georgia or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income $102,905 vs $79,991, with unemployment at 3.4% in Georgia and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 0.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$22,914 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$22,914-22% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,688 (-7%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$4,688-7% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Population growthGap +0.56 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.56 pts | +0.51% | GA |
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 | GA | MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $142,793$138,509 in Atlanta | $129,584$134,767 in Baltimore | GA |
| Civil Engineers | $108,289$105,040 in Atlanta | $95,492$99,312 in Baltimore | GA |
| General & Operations Managers | $110,012$106,712 in Atlanta | $97,222$101,111 in Baltimore | GA |
| Registered Nurses | $96,146$93,262 in Atlanta | $84,077$87,440 in Baltimore | GA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $78,184$75,838 in Atlanta | $70,989$73,829 in Baltimore | GA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $73,694$71,483 in Atlanta | $66,648$69,314 in Baltimore | GA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $62,489$60,614 in Atlanta | $55,883$58,118 in Baltimore | GA |
| Lawyers | $158,875$154,109 in Atlanta | $152,749$158,859 in Baltimore | GA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,526$67,440 in Atlanta | $63,485$66,024 in Baltimore | GA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,123$108,759 in Atlanta | $106,653$110,919 in Baltimore | GA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $60,923$59,095 in Atlanta | $55,677$57,904 in Baltimore | GA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,046$63,095 in Atlanta | $59,982$62,381 in Baltimore | GA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,648$57,859 in Atlanta | $54,859$57,053 in Baltimore | GA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $87,791$85,157 in Atlanta | $84,061$87,423 in Baltimore | GA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,115$77,712 in Atlanta | $76,611$79,675 in Baltimore | GA |
| Electricians | $65,406$63,444 in Atlanta | $62,449$64,947 in Baltimore | GA |
| Construction Laborers | $45,318$43,958 in Atlanta | $43,559$45,301 in Baltimore | GA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,181$34,126 in Atlanta | $33,743$35,093 in Baltimore | GA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,626$49,107 in Atlanta | $49,774$51,765 in Baltimore | Even |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,200$228,144 in Atlanta | $235,537$244,958 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 Georgia safer than Maryland?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland (FBI). Property crime runs 1,409 and 1,820 per 100,000.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -61 (-17%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -61-17% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -410 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -410-23% | 1,535 | GA |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Johns Creek, GA40 violent per 100K
- Rockville, MD108 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Georgia or Maryland?
Georgia and Maryland are close on education (#34 and #31 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 84.1% and 86.3%. Maryland scores higher for health (#15 vs #40); life expectancy is 75.9 years in Georgia and 77.8 in Maryland.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 85.62% | MD |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.7 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.7 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+13%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | +5 pts+13% | 38.8 | MD |
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).
- Valdosta, GAeducation score 92.3
- 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: Georgia #34, Maryland #31. Health: Georgia #40, Maryland #15.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Maryland, or from Maryland to Georgia?
3,112 households moved from Maryland to Georgia in the latest IRS release (average income $73,929); the flow from Georgia to Maryland is too small to appear among Maryland's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,702 people (±2,720) moving from Georgia to Maryland and 6,199 (±1,461) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
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 | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +64,963 (+78%) | 148,244#6 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +64,963+78% | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +36,664 (+38%) | 133,573#43 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +36,664+38% | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +28,299 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +28,299 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 | +1.3#16 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +3.5 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$10,652 (-13%) | $70,169#34 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | -$10,652-13% | MD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$15,963 (-18%) | $72,288#27 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | -$15,963-18% | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.3 | +2.4#16 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +4.3 | GA |
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, Georgia or Maryland?
Georgia is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, and small business; Maryland is the better fit for outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -5 places | #33score 60.1 | #38score 56.3 | -5 places | GA |
| RetireesGap -9 places | #27score 60.4 | #36score 55.8 | -9 places | GA |
| Remote WorkersGap -20 places | #20score 54.6 | #40score 43.6 | -20 places | GA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -17 places | #17score 58.9 | #34score 49.1 | -17 places | GA |
| Small BusinessGap -18 places | #13score 66.7 | #31score 52 | -18 places | GA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +4 places | #40score 29.7 | #36score 33.6 | +4 places | MD |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesGeorgia (#33 vs #38)
- RetireesGeorgia (#27 vs #36)
- Remote WorkersGeorgia (#20 vs #40)
- Young ProfessionalsGeorgia (#17 vs #34)
- Small BusinessGeorgia (#13 vs #31)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMaryland (#36 vs #40)
Which cities stand out in Georgia and Maryland?
Georgia has 20 tracked cities and Maryland has 20; the largest are Atlanta and Baltimore. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Atlanta505,268 people | Baltimore573,243 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Johns Creekscore 73.4 | Bethesdascore 76.7 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Johns Creek40 violent per 100K | Rockville108 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Albanycost index 87.7 | Baltimorecost index 104.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Atlantawalkability 13.3 of 20 | Bethesdawalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Mariettacounty median AQI 35 | Columbiacounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Valdosta92.3% graduation rate | Waldorf94% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Johns Creekmedian income $160,093 | Potomacmedian income $236,675 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Gainesville+2.4% growth | Frederick+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Georgia and Maryland compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Georgia carries AAA credit rating and Maryland AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.4 · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +13.4 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap -1.8 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 17.16% | MD |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.9 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -2.9 min | 25.2 min | GA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -1 pts | 92.67% | MD |
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 | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +8.9 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | +8.9 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +2 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +2 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,660 (-61%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$2,660-61% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.8 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +3.8 pts | +4.66% | GA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Georgia 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).
Georgia vs Maryland: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Georgia is ahead on 26 of 51, Maryland on 17, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | GeorgiaGA | MarylandMD | GapGA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,037,401 (+80%) · US 6.8 million | 11.3 million#8 of 50 | 6.3 million#19 of 50 | +5,037,401+80% | 6.8 million | GA |
| Median household incomeGap -$22,914 (-22%) · US $80,903 | $79,991#23 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$22,914-22% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#13 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | GA |
| Population growthGap +0.56 pts · US +0.51% | +0.88%#10 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.56 pts | +0.51% | GA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,688 (-7%) · US $64,333 | $63,669#22 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$4,688-7% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +3.2%#6 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | GA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -61 (-17%) · US 328 | 297#26 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -61-17% | 328 | GA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -410 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,409#21 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -410-23% | 1,535 | GA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.2 pts · US 85.62% | 84.1%#33 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | -2.2 pts | 85.62% | MD |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +2 · US 237 | 236#32 of 50 | 234#39 of 50 | +2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 269#37 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 214#28 of 50 | 216#20 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 259#18 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.9 yrs · US 76.9 | 75.9#36 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -1.9 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap +2.7 pts · US 34.03% | 35.4%#31 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | +2.7 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +5.7 pts · US 7.6% | 12%#49 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | +5.7 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$97,491 (-23%) · US $368,697 | $330,817#22 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$97,491-23% | $368,697 | GA |
| Home value change, one yearGap -0.5 pts · US +1.2% | -0.5%#45 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | -0.5 pts | +1.2% | MD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$95 (-5%) · US $1,948 | $1,853#30 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | -$95-5% | $1,948 | GA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$25,990 (-22%) · US $100,006 | $90,495#23 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$25,990-22% | $100,006 | GA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -8.7 pts (-8%) · US 100 | 96.3#25 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -8.7 pts-8% | 100 | GA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-2%) · US 4.6x | 4.1x#20 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | -0.1x-2% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.75¢ (-24%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 14.73¢/kWh#20 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -4.75¢-24% | 17.84¢/kWh | GA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$4.28 (+27%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $20.42/Mcf#45 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | +$4.28+27% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.37 (-11%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.95/gal#6 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.37-11% | $3.32/gal | GA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -3.6 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 98.9#38 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -3.6 pts-4% | 100 | GA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$9,058 (-45%) · US $15,633 | $11,066#10 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$9,058-45% | $15,633 | GA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.57 pts · US 8.74% | 8.47%#20 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.57 pts | 8.74% | GA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.56 pts · US 5.46% | 5.39%#25 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -3.56 pts | 5.46% | GA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.19 pts · US 1.02% | 0.83%#24 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | -0.19 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.49 pts · US 6.66% | 7.49%#32 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +1.49 pts | 6.66% | MD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#12 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +8.9 pts · US 12.39% | 16.4%#7 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | +8.9 pts | 12.39% | GA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +2 pts · US 74.3% | 77%#21 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +2 pts | 74.3% | GA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$2,660 (-61%) · US $3,506 | $1,690#6 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$2,660-61% | $3,506 | GA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +3.8 pts · US +4.66% | +5.6%#19 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +3.8 pts | +4.66% | GA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +5 pts (+13%) · US 38.8 | 45#47 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | +5 pts+13% | 38.8 | MD |
| Renewable share of electricityGap 0 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#35 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | 0 pts | 29.34% | Even |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.4 · US 29.6 | 13.4#10 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +13.4 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap -1.8 pts · US 17.16% | 6.1%#29 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 17.16% | MD |
| Mean travel time to workGap -2.9 min · US 25.2 min | 29.4 min#45 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -2.9 min | 25.2 min | GA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -3.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1.2%#22 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -3.8 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -0.7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.9%#12 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -0.7 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1 pts · US 92.67% | 93.4%#18 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -1 pts | 92.67% | MD |
| Households moving inIRSGap +64,963 (+78%) · US 78,682 | 148,244#6 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +64,963+78% | 78,682 | GA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +36,664 (+38%) · US 78,715 | 133,573#43 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +36,664+38% | 78,715 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +28,299 · US -33 | +14,671#7 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +28,299 | -33 | GA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +3.5 · US +0.4 | +1.3#16 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +3.5 | +0.4 | GA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$10,652 (-13%) · US $77,690 | $70,169#34 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | -$10,652-13% | $77,690 | MD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$15,963 (-18%) · US $77,024 | $72,288#27 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | -$15,963-18% | $77,024 | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +4.3 · US +1.1 | +2.4#16 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +4.3 | +1.1 | GA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$27,884 · US -$11,758 | -$2,800#14 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$27,884 | -$11,758 | GA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$5,315 · US +$31,418 | +$32,185#25 of 50 | +$26,870#36 of 50 | +$5,315 | +$31,418 | GA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$6,674 · US +$35,970 | +$36,785#25 of 50 | +$30,111#38 of 50 | +$6,674 | +$35,970 | GA |
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 Georgia and Maryland numbers say when read together.
Neither state is better overall
Georgia (55.4, #26) and Maryland (53.6, #31) are within 2 composite points. Georgia leads 5 categories, Maryland leads 4, and 2 are even. The answer depends on which categories matter to you.
Georgia is cheaper day to day
Georgia's cost of living index is 96.3 against 105 in Maryland (US = 100). The typical home costs $330,817 in Georgia and $428,308 in Maryland. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 a year after typical costs in Georgia and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Georgia takes a smaller share in taxes
Georgia collects 8.47% of income in state and local taxes (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes); 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 $79,991 in Georgia and $102,905 in Maryland, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4%. Violent crime runs 297 per 100,000 residents in Georgia and 358 in Maryland.
Moves between the two run about even
5,702 people moved from Georgia to Maryland and 6,199 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Georgia fits families and retirees better
For families, Georgia ranks #33 of 50 and Maryland #38; for retirees, Georgia ranks #27 and Maryland #36.
Georgia vs Maryland: frequently asked questions
Is Georgia or Maryland better to live in?
Georgia ranks #26 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. Georgia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.3 vs 105), has a 1.6-point lower tax burden, and has a 17% lower violent crime rate. Overall they are 1.8 points apart, too close to call: Georgia leads 5 of 11 categories, Maryland leads 4.
Is Georgia cheaper than Maryland?
Georgia is cheaper than Maryland: cost of living index 96.3 vs 105 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$2,800 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Georgia, and -$30,684 in Maryland. The typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $428,308 in Maryland.
Which has lower taxes, Georgia or Maryland?
Georgia has the lower tax burden: 8.47% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.04% in Maryland. Georgia's top income tax rate is 5.39%, its effective property tax rate 0.83% and its combined sales tax 7.49%; Maryland's are 8.95%, 1.02% and 6%.
Is Georgia safer than Maryland?
Georgia is safer: 297 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland, per the FBI. Georgia ranks #26 of 50 for violent crime and Maryland #34. Property crime is 1,409 per 100,000 in Georgia and 1,820 in Maryland. The safest tracked cities are Johns Creek, GA, and Rockville, MD.
Are homes more expensive in Georgia or Maryland?
Homes are 29% more expensive in Maryland: the typical home value is $330,817 in Georgia and $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $90,495 of household income in Georgia and $116,485 in Maryland, against median incomes of $79,991 and $102,905.
Do people earn more in Georgia or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income is $102,905 vs $79,991 in Georgia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Georgia and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Georgia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 0, with 2 even.
Are more people moving from Georgia to Maryland or from Maryland to Georgia?
3,112 households moved from Maryland to Georgia in the latest IRS release (average income $73,929); the flow from Georgia to Maryland is too small to appear among Maryland's top origin states. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 5,702 people (±2,720) moving from Georgia to Maryland and 6,199 (±1,461) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Georgia or Maryland?
Georgia is the better fit for retirees: #27 of 50 on the retiree index vs #36 for Maryland. Georgia has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes; 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 +$36,785 left after typical costs in Georgia and +$30,111 in Maryland.
Which is better for families, Georgia or Maryland?
Georgia is the better fit for families: #33 of 50 on the families index vs #38 for Maryland. Center-based infant care costs $11,066 a year in Georgia and $20,124 in Maryland. High school graduation rates are 84.1% and 86.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,800 after typical costs in Georgia and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Which has better schools, Georgia or Maryland?
Georgia and Maryland are close on education: #34 and #31 of 50 in the education category. Eighth graders average 269 in NAEP math in Georgia and 268 in Maryland. High school graduation rates are 84.1% in Georgia and 86.3% in Maryland, and the education category scores are 53.1 and 55.5 out of 100. Among tracked cities, Valdosta and Waldorf have the strongest school metrics.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Georgia vs Maryland.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (3,112 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).