Virginia vs Maryland: Which Is Better to Live In?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 105), has a 1.2-point lower tax burden, and has a 42% lower violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 0.
- Violent crime rate is 42% lower in Virginia (206 vs. 358 in Maryland).
- Property crime rate is 26% lower in Virginia (1,354 vs. 1,820 in Maryland).
- Residential electricity price is 22% lower in Virginia (15.28¢/kWh vs. 19.48¢/kWh in Maryland).
| Measure | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +14.1 pts | 67.7#15 of 50 · B+ | 53.6#31 of 50 · C+ | +14.1 pts | — | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.9 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -3.9 pts-4% | 100 | VA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$8,734 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$8,734 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$13,646 (-3%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$13,646-3% | $368,697 | VA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.18 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.18 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -152 (-42%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -152-42% | 328 | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$10,815 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$10,815-11% | $80,903 | MD |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,049 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +14,049 | -33 | VA |
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 Virginia or Maryland better to live in?
Virginia scores higher overall: 67.7 to 53.6 out of 100, #15 of 50 against #31. Virginia leads 8 of 11 categories, Maryland leads 0, and 3 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -0.7 | 15% | 64.6#7 · A | 65.3#6 · A | -0.7 pts | Even |
| Safety12% of scoregap +19 | 12% | 79.3#13 · B+ | 60.3#37 · C | +19 pts | VA |
| Health12% of scoregap -2.2 | 12% | 61.4#17 · B+ | 63.6#15 · B+ | -2.2 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap +9.9 | 12% | 65.4#14 · B+ | 55.5#31 · C+ | +9.9 pts | VA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +10.2 | 10% | 60.5#34 · C+ | 50.3#39 · C | +10.2 pts | VA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +7.8 | 8% | 62.8#20 · B | 55.0#35 · C | +7.8 pts | VA |
| Growth7% of scoregap +15.3 | 7% | 45.1#19 · B | 29.8#37 · C | +15.3 pts | VA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +6.9 | 7% | 47.8#29 · C+ | 40.9#45 · D | +6.9 pts | VA |
| Livability7% of scoregap +5.6 | 7% | 27.3#35 · C | 21.7#46 · D | +5.6 pts | VA |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +8.3 | 6% | 20.1#30 · C+ | 11.8#40 · C | +8.3 pts | VA |
| Environment4% of scoregap +1.9 | 4% | 48.0#15 · B+ | 46.1#19 · B | +1.9 pts | Even |
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 Virginia cheaper than Maryland?
Virginia is cheaper: cost of living index 101.1 vs 105 in Maryland (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $8,734 more a year in Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.9 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -3.9 pts-4% | 100 | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.1 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -2.1 pts-2% | 100 | VA |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.20¢ (-22%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -4.20¢-22% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.65 (+4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | +$0.65+4% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.23 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.23-7% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,860 (-14%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$2,860-14% | $15,633 | VA |
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 | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$1,532 | +$28,402costs $46,598 | +$26,870costs $48,131 | +$1,532 | VA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$2,542 | +$19,078costs $55,922 | +$16,536costs $58,463 | +$2,542 | VA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$8,734 | -$21,950costs $96,950 | -$30,684costs $105,684 | +$8,734 | VA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$2,152 | +$32,263costs $42,737 | +$30,111costs $44,889 | +$2,152 | VA |
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 | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$2,045 | $28,313 | $30,358 | -$2,045 | VA |
| ChildcareGap -$5,720 | $34,528 | $40,248 | -$5,720 | VA |
| UtilitiesGap -$187 | $4,853 | $5,040 | -$187 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$237 | $11,308 | $11,545 | -$237 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$723 | $9,711 | $10,434 | -$723 | VA |
| State and local taxesGap +$178 | $8,237 | $8,059 | +$178 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Maryland?
Virginia collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.86% vs 10.04%. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property 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 | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.18 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.18 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.2 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 5.46% | VA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.26 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | -0.26 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.23 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | -0.23 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 Virginia or Maryland?
Homes cost 3% more in Maryland: a typical home value of $414,662 in Virginia vs $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of income in Virginia and $116,485 in Maryland; the median household earns $92,090 and $102,905.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$13,646 (-3%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$13,646-3% | $368,697 | VA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.2 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | +2.2 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$485 (+25%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | +$485+25% | $1,948 | MD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$6,565 (-6%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$6,565-6% | $100,006 | VA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+7%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | +0.3x+7% | 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.
| VA | MD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,133 | $2,204 |
| Income needed vs. median | +19% | +13% |
| Five-year change | +23.4% | +13.5% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Washington | 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 Virginia or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income $102,905 vs $92,090, with unemployment at 3.4% in Virginia and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 0.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$10,815 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$10,815-11% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,917 (-3%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$1,917-3% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.37 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.37 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 | VA | MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software Developers | $161,842$163,460 in Washington | $129,584$134,767 in Baltimore | VA |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $266,202$268,864 in Washington | $235,537$244,958 in Baltimore | VA |
| General & Operations Managers | $123,302$124,535 in Washington | $97,222$101,111 in Baltimore | VA |
| Civil Engineers | $120,117$121,318 in Washington | $95,492$99,312 in Baltimore | VA |
| Lawyers | $176,216$177,978 in Washington | $152,749$158,859 in Baltimore | VA |
| Registered Nurses | $106,604$107,670 in Washington | $84,077$87,440 in Baltimore | VA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $126,383$127,647 in Washington | $106,653$110,919 in Baltimore | VA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $85,049$85,899 in Washington | $70,989$73,829 in Baltimore | VA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $77,137$77,908 in Washington | $63,485$66,024 in Baltimore | VA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $89,450$90,344 in Washington | $76,611$79,675 in Baltimore | VA |
| Electricians | $74,257$75,000 in Washington | $62,449$64,947 in Baltimore | VA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $71,708$72,425 in Washington | $59,982$62,381 in Baltimore | VA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $77,225$77,997 in Washington | $66,648$69,314 in Baltimore | VA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $66,364$67,028 in Washington | $55,883$58,118 in Baltimore | VA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $64,899$65,548 in Washington | $54,859$57,053 in Baltimore | VA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $93,203$94,135 in Washington | $84,061$87,423 in Baltimore | VA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $40,719$41,126 in Washington | $33,743$35,093 in Baltimore | VA |
| Construction Laborers | $49,981$50,481 in Washington | $43,559$45,301 in Baltimore | VA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,077$62,698 in Washington | $55,677$57,904 in Baltimore | VA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $56,071$56,632 in Washington | $49,774$51,765 in Baltimore | VA |
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 Virginia safer than Maryland?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland (FBI). Property crime runs 1,354 and 1,820 per 100,000.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -152 (-42%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -152-42% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -466 (-26%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -466-26% | 1,535 | VA |
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.
- Virginia Beach, VA100 violent per 100K
- Rockville, MD108 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Virginia or Maryland?
Virginia scores higher for education (#14 of 50 vs #31), with high school graduation rates of 89.1% and 86.3%. They are close on health (#17 and #15); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Virginia and 77.8 in Maryland.
| Measure | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.6 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-8%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | -3 pts-8% | 38.8 | VA |
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).
- Leesburg, VAeducation 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: Virginia #14, Maryland #31. Health: Virginia #17, Maryland #15.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Maryland, or from Maryland to Virginia?
13,353 households moved from Virginia to Maryland and 15,079 moved from Maryland to Virginia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,726 households for Virginia. Movers to Maryland reported an average income of $87,911; movers to Virginia reported $83,051. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 28,004 people (±5,694) moving from Virginia to Maryland and 25,183 (±4,200) 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 | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +52,328 (+63%) | 135,609#7 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +52,328+63% | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +38,279 (+39%) | 135,188#44 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +38,279+39% | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,049 | +421#25 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +14,049 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.2 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +2.2 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,506 (+2%) | $82,327#17 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | +$1,506+2% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,077 (+1%) | $89,328#9 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | +$1,077+1% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.6 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +2.6 | VA |
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, Virginia or Maryland?
Virginia 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 | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -21 places | #17score 72.9 | #38score 56.3 | -21 places | VA |
| RetireesGap -21 places | #15score 68.4 | #36score 55.8 | -21 places | VA |
| Remote WorkersGap -24 places | #16score 58.3 | #40score 43.6 | -24 places | VA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -21 places | #13score 63.4 | #34score 49.1 | -21 places | VA |
| Small BusinessGap -19 places | #12score 68 | #31score 52 | -19 places | VA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -13 places | #23score 48 | #36score 33.6 | -13 places | VA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesVirginia (#17 vs #38)
- RetireesVirginia (#15 vs #36)
- Remote WorkersVirginia (#16 vs #40)
- Young ProfessionalsVirginia (#13 vs #34)
- Small BusinessVirginia (#12 vs #31)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsVirginia (#23 vs #36)
Which cities stand out in Virginia and Maryland?
Virginia has 20 tracked cities and Maryland has 20; the largest are Virginia Beach and Baltimore. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Virginia Beach456,349 people | Baltimore573,243 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Restonscore 75.8 | Bethesdascore 76.7 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Virginia Beach100 violent per 100K | Rockville108 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Lynchburgcost index 89.4 | Baltimorecost index 104.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Harrisonburgwalkability 14.9 of 20 | Bethesdawalkability 14.3 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Lynchburgcounty median AQI 30 | Columbiacounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Leesburg95% graduation rate | Waldorf94% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | McLeanmedian income $250,001 | Potomacmedian income $236,675 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Suffolk+1.6% growth | Frederick+3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Virginia and Maryland compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Virginia carries AAA credit rating and Maryland AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +5.5 · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +5.5 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +2.6 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -4 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -4 min | 25.2 min | VA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -2 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -1.6 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 | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 12.39% | VA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +5 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,520 (-35%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$1,520-35% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +4.66% | VA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Virginia 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).
Virginia vs Maryland: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Virginia is ahead on 27 of 51, Maryland on 9, and 15 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | VirginiaVA | MarylandMD | GapVA−MD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,614,760 (+42%) · US 6.8 million | 8.9 million#12 of 50 | 6.3 million#19 of 50 | +2,614,760+42% | 6.8 million | VA |
| Median household incomeGap -$10,815 (-11%) · US $80,903 | $92,090#12 of 50 | $102,905#3 of 50 | -$10,815-11% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 3.4%#12 of 50 | 4%#27 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | VA |
| Population growthGap +0.37 pts · US +0.51% | +0.69%#15 of 50 | +0.32%#34 of 50 | +0.37 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$1,917 (-3%) · US $64,333 | $66,440#18 of 50 | $68,357#16 of 50 | -$1,917-3% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap 0 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#17 of 50 | +2.3%#18 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -152 (-42%) · US 328 | 206#8 of 50 | 358#34 of 50 | -152-42% | 328 | VA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -466 (-26%) · US 1,535 | 1,354#18 of 50 | 1,820#43 of 50 | -466-26% | 1,535 | VA |
| High school graduation rateGap +2.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.1%#9 of 50 | 86.3%#26 of 50 | +2.8 pts | 85.62% | VA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +4 · US 237 | 238#24 of 50 | 234#39 of 50 | +4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 275#22 of 50 | 268#38 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 214#31 of 50 | 216#20 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -2 · US 257 | 256#29 of 50 | 258#21 of 50 | -2 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.3 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#22 of 50 | 77.8#20 of 50 | -0.3 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#16 of 50 | 32.7%#19 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.6 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#22 of 50 | 6.3%#18 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 7.6% | MD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$13,646 (-3%) · US $368,697 | $414,662#32 of 50 | $428,308#35 of 50 | -$13,646-3% | $368,697 | VA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.2 pts · US +1.2% | +2.2%#25 of 50 | 0%#41 of 50 | +2.2 pts | +1.2% | VA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$485 (+25%) · US $1,948 | $2,433#44 of 50 | $1,948#35 of 50 | +$485+25% | $1,948 | MD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$6,565 (-6%) · US $100,006 | $109,920#32 of 50 | $116,485#36 of 50 | -$6,565-6% | $100,006 | VA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.9 pts (-4%) · US 100 | 101.1#36 of 50 | 105#44 of 50 | -3.9 pts-4% | 100 | VA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.3x (+7%) · US 4.6x | 4.5x#26 of 50 | 4.2x#22 of 50 | +0.3x+7% | 4.6x | MD |
| Residential electricity priceGap -4.20¢ (-22%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.28¢/kWh#24 of 50 | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | -4.20¢-22% | 17.84¢/kWh | VA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.65 (+4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.79/Mcf#32 of 50 | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | +$0.65+4% | $15.83/Mcf | MD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.23 (-7%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.09/gal#14 of 50 | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | -$0.23-7% | $3.32/gal | VA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -2.1 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 100.4#40 of 50 | 102.5#42 of 50 | -2.1 pts-2% | 100 | VA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$2,860 (-14%) · US $15,633 | $17,264#33 of 50 | $20,124#40 of 50 | -$2,860-14% | $15,633 | VA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -1.18 pts · US 8.74% | 8.86%#28 of 50 | 10.04%#42 of 50 | -1.18 pts | 8.74% | VA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -3.2 pts · US 5.46% | 5.75%#29 of 50 | 8.95%#43 of 50 | -3.2 pts | 5.46% | VA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.26 pts · US 1.02% | 0.76%#18 of 50 | 1.02%#30 of 50 | -0.26 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.23 pts · US 6.66% | 5.77%#10 of 50 | 6%#11 of 50 | -0.23 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#7 of 50 | 100#14 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +1.4 pts · US 12.39% | 8.9%#31 of 50 | 7.5%#39 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 12.39% | VA |
| Pension funded ratioGap +5 pts · US 74.3% | 80%#15 of 50 | 75%#25 of 50 | +5 pts | 74.3% | VA |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,520 (-35%) · US $3,506 | $2,830#24 of 50 | $4,350#40 of 50 | -$1,520-35% | $3,506 | VA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +2.7 pts · US +4.66% | +4.5%#27 of 50 | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +2.7 pts | +4.66% | VA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-8%) · US 38.8 | 37#18 of 50 | 40#25 of 50 | -3 pts-8% | 38.8 | VA |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -2 pts · US 29.34% | 10%#38 of 50 | 12%#36 of 50 | -2 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +5.5 · US 29.6 | 5.5#5 of 50 | 0.0#1 of 50 | +5.5 | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap +2.6 pts · US 17.16% | 10.5%#21 of 50 | 7.9%#24 of 50 | +2.6 pts | 17.16% | VA |
| Mean travel time to workGap -4 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#42 of 50 | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | -4 min | 25.2 min | VA |
| Commuters using public transitGap -2 pts · US 2.29% | 3%#11 of 50 | 5%#5 of 50 | -2 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.2 pts · US 12.28% | 15.8%#7 of 50 | 15.6%#9 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 12.28% | Even |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.8%#26 of 50 | 94.4%#8 of 50 | -1.6 pts | 92.67% | MD |
| Households moving inIRSGap +52,328 (+63%) · US 78,682 | 135,609#7 of 50 | 83,281#18 of 50 | +52,328+63% | 78,682 | VA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +38,279 (+39%) · US 78,715 | 135,188#44 of 50 | 96,909#35 of 50 | +38,279+39% | 78,715 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +14,049 · US -33 | +421#25 of 50 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +14,049 | -33 | VA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.2 · US +0.4 | 0.0#26 of 50 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +2.2 | +0.4 | VA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$1,506 (+2%) · US $77,690 | $82,327#17 of 50 | $80,821#20 of 50 | +$1,506+2% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,077 (+1%) · US $77,024 | $89,328#9 of 50 | $88,251#10 of 50 | +$1,077+1% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +2.6 · US +1.1 | +0.7#28 of 50 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +2.6 | +1.1 | VA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$8,734 · US -$11,758 | -$21,950#34 of 50 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$8,734 | -$11,758 | VA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$1,532 · US +$31,418 | +$28,402#33 of 50 | +$26,870#36 of 50 | +$1,532 | +$31,418 | VA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$2,152 · US +$35,970 | +$32,263#32 of 50 | +$30,111#38 of 50 | +$2,152 | +$35,970 | VA |
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 Virginia and Maryland numbers say when read together.
Virginia ranks higher overall
Virginia leads 8 of the 11 categories to Maryland's 0, with 3 even. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Virginia is ahead on 27 and Maryland on 9.
Virginia is cheaper day to day
Virginia's cost of living index is 101.1 against 105 in Maryland (US = 100). The typical home costs $414,662 in Virginia and $428,308 in Maryland. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 a year after typical costs in Virginia and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Virginia takes a smaller share in taxes
Virginia collects 8.86% of income in state and local taxes (low sales tax, with income and property 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 $92,090 in Virginia and $102,905 in Maryland, with unemployment at 3.4% and 4%. Violent crime runs 206 per 100,000 residents in Virginia and 358 in Maryland.
Moves between the two run about even
28,004 people moved from Virginia to Maryland and 25,183 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Virginia fits families and retirees better
For families, Virginia ranks #17 of 50 and Maryland #38; for retirees, Virginia ranks #15 and Maryland #36.
Virginia vs Maryland: frequently asked questions
Is Virginia or Maryland better to live in?
Virginia ranks #15 of 50 overall and Maryland #31 as of the latest release. Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 101.1 vs 105), has a 1.2-point lower tax burden, and has a 42% lower violent crime rate. Virginia scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 0.
Is Virginia cheaper than Maryland?
Virginia is cheaper than Maryland: cost of living index 101.1 vs 105 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$21,950 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Virginia, and -$30,684 in Maryland. The typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $428,308 in Maryland.
Which has lower taxes, Virginia or Maryland?
Virginia has the lower tax burden: 8.86% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.04% in Maryland. Virginia's top income tax rate is 5.75%, its effective property tax rate 0.76% and its combined sales tax 5.77%; Maryland's are 8.95%, 1.02% and 6%.
Is Virginia safer than Maryland?
Virginia is safer: 206 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland, per the FBI. Virginia ranks #8 of 50 for violent crime and Maryland #34. Property crime is 1,354 per 100,000 in Virginia and 1,820 in Maryland. The safest tracked cities are Virginia Beach, VA, and Rockville, MD.
Are homes more expensive in Virginia or Maryland?
Homes are 3% more expensive in Maryland: the typical home value is $414,662 in Virginia and $428,308 in Maryland. Buying the typical home takes about $109,920 of household income in Virginia and $116,485 in Maryland, against median incomes of $92,090 and $102,905.
Do people earn more in Virginia or Maryland?
Maryland pays more: median household income is $102,905 vs $92,090 in Virginia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.4% in Virginia and 4% in Maryland. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Virginia's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and Maryland's in 0.
Are more people moving from Virginia to Maryland or from Maryland to Virginia?
13,353 households moved from Virginia to Maryland and 15,079 moved from Maryland to Virginia in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,726 households for Virginia. Movers to Maryland reported an average income of $87,911; movers to Virginia reported $83,051. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 28,004 people (±5,694) moving from Virginia to Maryland and 25,183 (±4,200) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Virginia or Maryland?
Virginia is the better fit for retirees: #15 of 50 on the retiree index vs #36 for Maryland. Virginia has low sales tax, with income and property 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 +$32,263 left after typical costs in Virginia and +$30,111 in Maryland.
Which is better for families, Virginia or Maryland?
Virginia is the better fit for families: #17 of 50 on the families index vs #38 for Maryland. Center-based infant care costs $17,264 a year in Virginia and $20,124 in Maryland. High school graduation rates are 89.1% and 86.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$21,950 after typical costs in Virginia and -$30,684 in Maryland.
Is Maryland better than Virginia?
No: Virginia ranks higher than Maryland overall, #15 of 50 vs #31, with a composite score of 67.7 to 53.6. Virginia leads 8 of 11 categories and Maryland leads 0. 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 Virginia vs Maryland.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (15,079 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).