Pennsylvania vs Maryland: Which Is Better to Live In?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 105), has a 1.5-point lower tax burden, and has a 37% lower violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Violent crime rate is 37% lower in Pennsylvania (227 vs. 358 in Maryland).
- Typical home value is 32% lower in Pennsylvania ($290,401 vs. $428,308 in Maryland).
- Property crime rate is 27% lower in Pennsylvania (1,324 vs. 1,820 in Maryland).
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +3.3 pts | 56.9#25 of 50 · B | 53.6#31 of 50 · C+ | +3.3 pts | — | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -7.4 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -7.4 pts-7% | 100 | PA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$19,059 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$19,059 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$137,907 (-32%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$137,907-32% | $368,697 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.46 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.46 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -131 (-37%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -131-37% | 328 | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$25,360 (-25%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$25,360-25% | $80,903 | MD |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -0.5 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,533 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +1,533 | -33 | PA |
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 Pennsylvania or Maryland better to live in?
Pennsylvania scores higher overall: 56.9 to 53.6 out of 100, #25 of 50 against #31. Pennsylvania leads 6 of 11 categories, Maryland leads 5, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -26.1 | 15% | 39.2#38 · C | 65.3#6 · A | -26.1 pts | MD |
| Safety12% of scoregap +17.8 | 12% | 78.1#15 · B+ | 60.3#37 · C | +17.8 pts | PA |
| Health12% of scoregap -4 | 12% | 59.6#21 · B | 63.6#15 · B+ | -4 pts | MD |
| Education12% of scoregap +9.9 | 12% | 65.4#15 · B+ | 55.5#31 · C+ | +9.9 pts | PA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +16.4 | 10% | 66.7#27 · C+ | 50.3#39 · C | +16.4 pts | PA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -9.4 | 8% | 45.6#41 · C | 55.0#35 · C | -9.4 pts | MD |
| Growth7% of scoregap -3 | 7% | 26.8#39 · C | 29.8#37 · C | -3 pts | MD |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +15 | 7% | 55.9#9 · A | 40.9#45 · D | +15 pts | PA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +12.7 | 7% | 34.4#22 · B | 21.7#46 · D | +12.7 pts | PA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +8 | 6% | 19.8#31 · C+ | 11.8#40 · C | +8 pts | PA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -8.1 | 4% | 38.0#30 · C+ | 46.1#19 · B | -8.1 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 Pennsylvania cheaper than Maryland?
Pennsylvania is cheaper: cost of living index 97.6 vs 105 in Maryland (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $19,059 more a year in Pennsylvania after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -7.4 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -7.4 pts-7% | 100 | PA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -3.1 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -3.1 pts-3% | 100 | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.18¢ (-1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -0.18¢-1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.10 (-7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | -$1.10-7% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.08 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | +$0.08+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,822 (-24%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$4,822-24% | $15,633 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$6,332 | +$33,202costs $41,798 | +$26,870costs $48,131 | +$6,332 | PA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$7,845 | +$24,381costs $50,619 | +$16,536costs $58,463 | +$7,845 | PA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$19,059 | -$11,625costs $86,625 | -$30,684costs $105,684 | +$19,059 | PA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$7,018 | +$37,129costs $37,871 | +$30,111costs $44,889 | +$7,018 | PA |
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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$8,642 | $21,716 | $30,358 | -$8,642 | PA |
| ChildcareGap -$9,644 | $30,604 | $40,248 | -$9,644 | PA |
| UtilitiesGap -$355 | $4,685 | $5,040 | -$355 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$350 | $11,195 | $11,545 | -$350 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$252 | $10,686 | $10,434 | +$252 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$320 | $7,739 | $8,059 | -$320 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Maryland?
Pennsylvania collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.58% vs 10.04%. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.46 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.46 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -2.09 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -2.09 pts | 5.46% | PA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.39 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | +0.39 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.34 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +0.34 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Pennsylvania or Maryland?
Homes cost 47% more in Maryland: a typical home value of $290,401 in Pennsylvania vs $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of income in Pennsylvania and $116,485 in Maryland; the median household earns $77,545 and $102,905.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$137,907 (-32%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$137,907-32% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.4 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | +2.4 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$37 (-2%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | -$37-2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$33,591 (-29%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$33,591-29% | $100,006 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-12%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | -0.5x-12% | 4.6x | PA |
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.
| PA | MD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,494 | $2,204 |
| Income needed vs. median | +7% | +13% |
| Five-year change | +22.3% | +13.5% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Philadelphia | 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 Pennsylvania or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income $102,905 vs $77,545, with unemployment at 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 0.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$25,360 (-25%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$25,360-25% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$3,572 (-5%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$3,572-5% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | -0.22 pts | +0.51% | Even |
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 | PA | MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $167,174$163,831 in Philadelphia | $152,749$158,859 in Baltimore | PA |
| Civil Engineers | $107,139$104,996 in Philadelphia | $95,492$99,312 in Baltimore | PA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,034$115,673 in Philadelphia | $106,653$110,919 in Baltimore | PA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,861$73,364 in Philadelphia | $63,485$66,024 in Baltimore | PA |
| Software Developers | $140,923$138,105 in Philadelphia | $129,584$134,767 in Baltimore | PA |
| General & Operations Managers | $107,178$105,034 in Philadelphia | $97,222$101,111 in Baltimore | PA |
| Registered Nurses | $93,714$91,840 in Philadelphia | $84,077$87,440 in Baltimore | PA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,371$73,864 in Philadelphia | $66,648$69,314 in Baltimore | PA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,266$62,001 in Philadelphia | $55,883$58,118 in Baltimore | PA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $242,841$237,984 in Philadelphia | $235,537$244,958 in Baltimore | PA |
| Electricians | $68,229$66,864 in Philadelphia | $62,449$64,947 in Baltimore | PA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,220$74,696 in Philadelphia | $70,989$73,829 in Baltimore | PA |
| Construction Laborers | $48,322$47,356 in Philadelphia | $43,559$45,301 in Baltimore | PA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,397$37,629 in Philadelphia | $33,743$35,093 in Baltimore | PA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $81,004$79,384 in Philadelphia | $76,611$79,675 in Baltimore | PA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $58,469$57,300 in Philadelphia | $54,859$57,053 in Baltimore | PA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $62,440$61,191 in Philadelphia | $59,982$62,381 in Baltimore | PA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,640$50,607 in Philadelphia | $49,774$51,765 in Baltimore | PA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,212$56,068 in Philadelphia | $55,677$57,904 in Baltimore | Even |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,184$82,500 in Philadelphia | $84,061$87,423 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 Pennsylvania safer than Maryland?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland (FBI). Property crime runs 1,324 and 1,820 per 100,000.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -131 (-37%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -131-37% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -496 (-27%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -496-27% | 1,535 | PA |
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.
- Bethel Park, PA44 violent per 100K
- Rockville, MD108 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Pennsylvania or Maryland?
Pennsylvania scores higher for education (#15 of 50 vs #31), with high school graduation rates of 87% and 86.3%. Maryland scores higher for health (#15 vs #21); life expectancy is 77.3 years in Pennsylvania and 77.8 in Maryland.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -0.5 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 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).
- State College, PAeducation score 96
- 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: Pennsylvania #15, Maryland #31. Health: Pennsylvania #21, Maryland #15.
Are more people moving from Pennsylvania to Maryland, or from Maryland to Pennsylvania?
7,619 households moved from Pennsylvania to Maryland and 8,992 moved from Maryland to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,373 households for Pennsylvania. Movers to Maryland reported an average income of $72,615; movers to Pennsylvania reported $73,860. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 12,638 people (±2,389) moving from Pennsylvania to Maryland and 18,254 (±3,761) the other way, a net gain of about 5,616 people for Pennsylvania 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +40,344 (+48%) | 123,625#8 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +40,344+48% | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +38,811 (+40%) | 135,720#45 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +38,811+40% | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,533 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +1,533 | PA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.3 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +1.3 | PA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$4,455 (-6%) | $76,366#28 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | -$4,455-6% | MD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$2,609 (-3%) | $85,642#12 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | -$2,609-3% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.7 | -0.2#33 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +1.7 | PA |
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, Pennsylvania or Maryland?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families, retirees, and outdoor enthusiasts; Maryland is the better fit for small business; 2 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -19 places | #19score 71.8 | #38score 56.3 | -19 places | PA |
| RetireesGap -10 places | #26score 61.5 | #36score 55.8 | -10 places | PA |
| Remote WorkersGap -2 places | #38score 46 | #40score 43.6 | -2 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -1 places | #33score 49.4 | #34score 49.1 | -1 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap +7 places | #38score 46.1 | #31score 52 | +7 places | MD |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -9 places | #27score 43.3 | #36score 33.6 | -9 places | PA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesPennsylvania (#19 vs #38)
- RetireesPennsylvania (#26 vs #36)
- Remote WorkersEven (#38 vs #40)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#33 vs #34)
- Small BusinessMaryland (#31 vs #38)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsPennsylvania (#27 vs #36)
Which cities stand out in Pennsylvania and Maryland?
Pennsylvania has 20 tracked cities and Maryland has 20; the largest are Philadelphia and Baltimore. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Philadelphia1,579,706 people | Baltimore573,243 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethel Parkscore 72.4 | Bethesdascore 76.7 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bethel Park44 violent per 100K | Rockville108 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Altoonacost index 89.5 | Baltimorecost index 104.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisburgwalkability 15.9 of 20 | Bethesdawalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Eriecounty median AQI 34 | Columbiacounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | State College96% graduation rate | Waldorf94% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Bethel Parkmedian income $107,090 | Potomacmedian income $236,675 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | York+0.6% growth | Frederick+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Pennsylvania and Maryland compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Pennsylvania carries AA- credit rating and Maryland AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -6 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | -6 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.4 · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +13.4 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap -2.3 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 17.16% | MD |
| Mean travel time to workGap -5.2 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -5.2 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.8 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -2.3 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 | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | MD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | -3 pts | 12.39% | MD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | MD |
| State debt per capitaGap -$230 (-5%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$230-5% | $3,506 | PA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +4.66% | PA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Pennsylvania AA-, 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).
Pennsylvania vs Maryland: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Pennsylvania is ahead on 23 of 51, Maryland on 14, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | PennsylvaniaPA | MarylandMD | GapPA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +6,794,085 (+108%) · US 6.8 million | 13.1 million#5 of 50 | 6.3 million#19 of 50 | +6,794,085+108% | 6.8 million | PA |
| Median household incomeGap -$25,360 (-25%) · US $80,903 | $77,545#27 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$25,360-25% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#33 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.22 pts · US +0.51% | +0.1%#42 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | -0.22 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$3,572 (-5%) · US $64,333 | $64,785#20 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$3,572-5% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2%#23 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | -0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -131 (-37%) · US 328 | 227#14 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -131-37% | 328 | PA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -496 (-27%) · US 1,535 | 1,324#17 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -496-27% | 1,535 | PA |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.7 pts · US 85.62% | 87%#22 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +0.7 pts | 85.62% | PA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 237 | 238#23 of 50 | 234#39 of 50 | +4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +8 · US 273 | 276#18 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +8 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 214 | 216#17 of 50 | 216#20 of 50 | +0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 259#19 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.5 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#26 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -0.5 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap +1.5 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#24 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 5.8%#14 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 7.6% | PA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$137,907 (-32%) · US $368,697 | $290,401#15 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$137,907-32% | $368,697 | PA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.4 pts · US +1.2% | +2.4%#22 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | +2.4 pts | +1.2% | PA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap -$37 (-2%) · US $1,948 | $1,911#32 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | -$37-2% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$33,591 (-29%) · US $100,006 | $82,894#16 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$33,591-29% | $100,006 | PA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -7.4 pts (-7%) · US 100 | 97.6#28 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -7.4 pts-7% | 100 | PA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-12%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#13 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | -0.5x-12% | 4.6x | PA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -0.18¢ (-1%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.30¢/kWh#37 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -0.18¢-1% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$1.10 (-7%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $15.04/Mcf#26 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | -$1.10-7% | $15.83/Mcf | PA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.08 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.40/gal#43 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | +$0.08+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -3.1 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 99.4#39 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -3.1 pts-3% | 100 | PA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$4,822 (-24%) · US $15,633 | $15,302#26 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$4,822-24% | $15,633 | PA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.46 pts · US 8.74% | 8.58%#21 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.46 pts | 8.74% | PA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -2.09 pts · US 5.46% | 6.86%#37 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -2.09 pts | 5.46% | PA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.39 pts · US 1.02% | 1.41%#39 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | +0.39 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.34 pts · US 6.66% | 6.34%#17 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | +0.34 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -15 pts · US 92.7 | 85#42 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | -15 pts | 92.7 | MD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -3 pts · US 12.39% | 4.5%#46 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | -3 pts | 12.39% | MD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 62%#42 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | MD |
| State debt per capitaGap -$230 (-5%) · US $3,506 | $4,120#38 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$230-5% | $3,506 | PA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#42 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +0.7 pts | +4.66% | PA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#22 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -6 pts · US 29.34% | 6%#45 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | -6 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.4 · US 29.6 | 13.4#9 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +13.4 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap -2.3 pts · US 17.16% | 5.6%#33 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 17.16% | MD |
| Mean travel time to workGap -5.2 min · US 25.2 min | 27.1 min#38 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -5.2 min | 25.2 min | PA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 4.2%#8 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -0.8 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.8 pts · US 12.28% | 13.8%#17 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2.3 pts · US 92.67% | 92.1%#34 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 92.67% | MD |
| Households moving inIRSGap +40,344 (+48%) · US 78,682 | 123,625#8 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +40,344+48% | 78,682 | PA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +38,811 (+40%) · US 78,715 | 135,720#45 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +38,811+40% | 78,715 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,533 · US -33 | -12,095#44 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +1,533 | -33 | PA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.3 · US +0.4 | -0.9#37 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +1.3 | +0.4 | PA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$4,455 (-6%) · US $77,690 | $76,366#28 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | -$4,455-6% | $77,690 | MD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$2,609 (-3%) · US $77,024 | $85,642#12 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | -$2,609-3% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.7 · US +1.1 | -0.2#33 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +1.7 | +1.1 | PA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$19,059 · US -$11,758 | -$11,625#25 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$19,059 | -$11,758 | PA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$6,332 · US +$31,418 | +$33,202#23 of 50 | +$26,870#36 of 50 | +$6,332 | +$31,418 | PA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$7,018 · US +$35,970 | +$37,129#23 of 50 | +$30,111#38 of 50 | +$7,018 | +$35,970 | PA |
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 Pennsylvania and Maryland numbers say when read together.
Pennsylvania ranks higher overall
Pennsylvania leads 6 of the 11 categories to Maryland's 5, with 0 even; Maryland is ahead on economy and fiscal health. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Pennsylvania is ahead on 23 and Maryland on 14.
Pennsylvania is cheaper day to day
Pennsylvania's cost of living index is 97.6 against 105 in Maryland (US = 100). The typical home costs $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $428,308 in Maryland. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 a year after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Pennsylvania takes a smaller share in taxes
Pennsylvania collects 8.58% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, with income 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 $77,545 in Pennsylvania and $102,905 in Maryland, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4%. Violent crime runs 227 per 100,000 residents in Pennsylvania and 358 in Maryland.
People move to Pennsylvania on net
18,254 people moved to Pennsylvania from Maryland in the latest Census release, against 12,638 going the other way.
Pennsylvania fits families and retirees better
For families, Pennsylvania ranks #19 of 50 and Maryland #38; for retirees, Pennsylvania ranks #26 and Maryland #36.
Pennsylvania vs Maryland: frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or Maryland better to live in?
Pennsylvania ranks #25 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 97.6 vs 105), has a 1.5-point lower tax burden, and has a 37% lower violent crime rate. Pennsylvania scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Pennsylvania cheaper than Maryland?
Pennsylvania is cheaper than Maryland: cost of living index 97.6 vs 105 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$11,625 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Pennsylvania, and -$30,684 in Maryland. The typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $428,308 in Maryland.
Which has lower taxes, Pennsylvania or Maryland?
Pennsylvania has the lower tax burden: 8.58% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.04% in Maryland. Pennsylvania's top income tax rate is 6.86%, its effective property tax rate 1.41% and its combined sales tax 6.34%; Maryland's are 8.95%, 1.02% and 6%.
Is Pennsylvania safer than Maryland?
Pennsylvania is safer: 227 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland, per the FBI. Pennsylvania ranks #14 of 50 for violent crime and Maryland #34. Property crime is 1,324 per 100,000 in Pennsylvania and 1,820 in Maryland. The safest tracked cities are Bethel Park, PA, and Rockville, MD.
Are homes more expensive in Pennsylvania or Maryland?
Homes are 47% more expensive in Maryland: the typical home value is $290,401 in Pennsylvania and $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $82,894 of household income in Pennsylvania and $116,485 in Maryland, against median incomes of $77,545 and $102,905.
Do people earn more in Pennsylvania or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income is $102,905 vs $77,545 in Pennsylvania, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in Pennsylvania and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Pennsylvania'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 Pennsylvania to Maryland or from Maryland to Pennsylvania?
7,619 households moved from Pennsylvania to Maryland and 8,992 moved from Maryland to Pennsylvania in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,373 households for Pennsylvania. Movers to Maryland reported an average income of $72,615; movers to Pennsylvania reported $73,860. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 12,638 people (±2,389) moving from Pennsylvania to Maryland and 18,254 (±3,761) the other way, a net gain of about 5,616 people for Pennsylvania beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Pennsylvania or Maryland?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for retirees: #26 of 50 on the retiree index vs #36 for Maryland. Pennsylvania has high property tax, with income 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 +$37,129 left after typical costs in Pennsylvania and +$30,111 in Maryland.
Which is better for families, Pennsylvania or Maryland?
Pennsylvania is the better fit for families: #19 of 50 on the families index vs #38 for Maryland. Center-based infant care costs $15,302 a year in Pennsylvania and $20,124 in Maryland. High school graduation rates are 87% and 86.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$11,625 after typical costs in Pennsylvania and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Is Maryland better than Pennsylvania?
No: Pennsylvania ranks higher than Maryland overall, #25 of 50 vs #31, with a composite score of 56.9 to 53.6. Pennsylvania leads 6 of 11 categories and Maryland leads 5, including economy and fiscal health. 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 Pennsylvania vs Maryland.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (8,992 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).