Maryland vs West Virginia: Which Is Better to Live In?
Maryland ranks #31 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. West Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89.5 vs 105), has a 1.2-point lower tax burden, and has a 32% lower violent crime rate. Maryland scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 60% lower in West Virginia ($47,071 vs. $116,485 in Maryland).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 54% lower in West Virginia ($9,339 vs. $20,124 in Maryland).
- Property crime rate is 42% lower in West Virginia (1,053 vs. 1,820 in Maryland).
| Measure | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +10.8 pts | 53.6#31 of 50 · C+ | 42.8#44 of 50 · D | +10.8 pts | — | MD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.5 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +15.5 pts+17% | 100 | WV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$41,668 · US -$11,758 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$41,668 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$248,812 (+139%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$248,812+139% | $368,697 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.19 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +1.19 pts | 8.74% | WV |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +116 (+48%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | +116+48% | 328 | WV |
| Median household incomeGap +$42,107 (+69%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$42,107+69% | $80,903 | MD |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +5.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +5.6 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -14,507 · US -33 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -14,507 | -33 | WV |
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 Maryland or West Virginia better to live in?
Maryland scores higher overall: 53.6 to 42.8 out of 100, #31 of 50 against #44. Maryland leads 4 of 11 categories, West Virginia leads 5, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +39.1 | 15% | 65.3#6 · A | 26.2#47 · D | +39.1 pts | MD |
| Safety12% of scoregap -20.6 | 12% | 60.3#37 · C | 80.9#9 · A | -20.6 pts | WV |
| Health12% of scoregap +42.3 | 12% | 63.6#15 · B+ | 21.3#49 · F | +42.3 pts | MD |
| Education12% of scoregap +10.4 | 12% | 55.5#31 · C+ | 45.1#43 · D | +10.4 pts | MD |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -35.9 | 10% | 50.3#39 · C | 86.2#6 · A | -35.9 pts | WV |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -5.1 | 8% | 55.0#35 · C | 60.1#23 · B | -5.1 pts | WV |
| Growth7% of scoregap -1.6 | 7% | 29.8#37 · C | 31.4#31 · C+ | -1.6 pts | Even |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1.7 | 7% | 40.9#45 · D | 39.2#46 · D | +1.7 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -7.4 | 7% | 21.7#46 · D | 29.1#32 · C+ | -7.4 pts | WV |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -4.9 | 6% | 11.8#40 · C | 16.7#33 · C+ | -4.9 pts | WV |
| Environment4% of scoregap +17.3 | 4% | 46.1#19 · B | 28.8#41 · C | +17.3 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 Maryland cheaper than West Virginia?
West Virginia is cheaper: cost of living index 89.5 vs 105 in Maryland (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $41,668 more a year in West Virginia after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.5 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +15.5 pts+17% | 100 | WV |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +6 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 102.5#42 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | +6 pts+6% | 100 | WV |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.07¢ (+26%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | +4.07¢+26% | 17.84¢/kWh | WV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.34 (+17%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$2.34+17% | $15.83/Mcf | WV |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,785 (+115%) · US $15,633 | $20,124#40 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$10,785+115% | $15,633 | WV |
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 | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$12,333 | +$26,870costs $48,131 | +$39,203costs $35,796 | -$12,333 | WV |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$16,131 | +$16,536costs $58,463 | +$32,667costs $42,333 | -$16,131 | WV |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$41,668 | -$30,684costs $105,684 | +$10,984costs $64,017 | -$41,668 | WV |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$14,245 | +$30,111costs $44,889 | +$44,356costs $30,644 | -$14,245 | WV |
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 | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$18,479 | $30,358 | $11,879 | +$18,479 | WV |
| ChildcareGap +$21,570 | $40,248 | $18,678 | +$21,570 | WV |
| UtilitiesGap +$744 | $5,040 | $4,296 | +$744 | WV |
| GroceriesGap +$676 | $11,545 | $10,869 | +$676 | WV |
| TransportationGap -$32 | $10,434 | $10,466 | -$32 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$230 | $8,059 | $7,829 | +$230 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Maryland or West Virginia?
West Virginia collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.85% vs 10.04%. Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.19 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +1.19 pts | 8.74% | WV |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.13 pts · US 5.46% | 8.95%#43 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | +4.13 pts | 5.46% | WV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.47 pts · US 1.02% | 1.02%#30 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.47 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.59 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#11 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | -0.59 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 Maryland or West Virginia?
Homes cost 139% more in Maryland: a typical home value of $428,308 in Maryland vs $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $116,485 of income in Maryland and $47,071 in West Virginia; the median household earns $102,905 and $60,798.
| Measure | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$248,812 (+139%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$248,812+139% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.1 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#41 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +1.2% | WV |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$719 (+59%) · US $1,948 | $1,948#35 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$719+59% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$69,414 (+147%) · US $100,006 | $116,485#36 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$69,414+147% | $100,006 | WV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.2x (+40%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#22 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +1.2x+40% | 4.6x | WV |
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.
| MD | WV | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,204 | $924 |
| Income needed vs. median | +13% | -23% |
| Five-year change | +13.5% | +22.5% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Warm |
| Largest metro | Baltimore | Charleston |
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 Maryland or West Virginia?
Maryland pays more: median household income $102,905 vs $60,798, with unemployment at 4% in Maryland and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maryland's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
| Measure | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$42,107 (+69%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$42,107+69% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#27 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$26,292 (+63%) · US $64,333 | $68,357#16 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$26,292+63% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +1.91% | MD |
| Population growthGap +0.39 pts · US +0.51% | +0.32%#34 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.39 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 | MD | WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,537$244,958 in Baltimore | $191,792$172,613 in Charleston | MD |
| Lawyers | $152,749$158,859 in Baltimore | $123,618$111,256 in Charleston | MD |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $106,653$110,919 in Baltimore | $88,299$79,469 in Charleston | MD |
| Accountants & Auditors | $84,061$87,423 in Baltimore | $68,489$61,640 in Charleston | MD |
| Software Developers | $129,584$134,767 in Baltimore | $115,314$103,783 in Charleston | MD |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $76,611$79,675 in Baltimore | $62,826$56,543 in Charleston | MD |
| Civil Engineers | $95,492$99,312 in Baltimore | $82,352$74,117 in Charleston | MD |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $59,982$62,381 in Baltimore | $48,929$44,036 in Charleston | MD |
| Registered Nurses | $84,077$87,440 in Baltimore | $73,760$66,384 in Charleston | MD |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $70,989$73,829 in Baltimore | $60,696$54,626 in Charleston | MD |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,485$66,024 in Baltimore | $54,044$48,640 in Charleston | MD |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $55,883$58,118 in Baltimore | $46,768$42,091 in Charleston | MD |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $49,774$51,765 in Baltimore | $40,844$36,760 in Charleston | MD |
| Electricians | $62,449$64,947 in Baltimore | $53,664$48,298 in Charleston | MD |
| Mental Health Counselors | $55,677$57,904 in Baltimore | $47,229$42,506 in Charleston | MD |
| General & Operations Managers | $97,222$101,111 in Baltimore | $89,258$80,332 in Charleston | MD |
| Construction Laborers | $43,559$45,301 in Baltimore | $35,598$32,038 in Charleston | MD |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $66,648$69,314 in Baltimore | $59,622$53,660 in Charleston | MD |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $33,743$35,093 in Baltimore | $28,247$25,422 in Charleston | MD |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $54,859$57,053 in Baltimore | $49,399$44,459 in Charleston | MD |
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 Maryland safer than West Virginia?
West Virginia is safer: 242 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland (FBI). Property crime runs 1,820 and 1,053 per 100,000.
| Measure | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +116 (+48%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | +116+48% | 328 | WV |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +766 (+73%) · US 1,535 | 1,820#43 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +766+73% | 1,535 | WV |
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.
- Rockville, MD108 violent per 100K
- Bridgeport, WV74 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Maryland or West Virginia?
Maryland scores higher for education (#31 of 50 vs #43), with high school graduation rates of 86.3% and 91.2%. Maryland scores higher for health (#15 vs #49); life expectancy is 77.8 years in Maryland and 72.2 in West Virginia.
| Measure | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 268#38 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +11 · US 257 | 258#21 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +11 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| Life expectancyGap +5.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +5.6 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap -8.7 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#19 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -8.7 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 6.3%#18 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 7.6% | WV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#25 of 50 | 40#26 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).
- Waldorf, MDeducation score 94
- Wheeling, WVeducation score 98
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: Maryland #31, West Virginia #43. Health: Maryland #15, West Virginia #49.
Are more people moving from Maryland to West Virginia, or from West Virginia to Maryland?
2,549 households moved from Maryland to West Virginia and 1,608 moved from West Virginia to Maryland in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 941 households for West Virginia. Movers to West Virginia reported an average income of $62,922; movers to Maryland reported $53,808. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,355 people (±1,131) moving from Maryland to West Virginia and 2,338 (±902) 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 | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +62,387 (+299%) | 83,281#18 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +62,387+299% | MD |
| Households moving outIRSGap +76,894 (+384%) | 96,909#35 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +76,894+384% | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -14,507 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -14,507 | WV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.7 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | -2.7 | WV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$22,337 (+38%) | $80,821#20 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$22,337+38% | MD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$27,737 (+46%) | $88,251#10 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | +$27,737+46% | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -5.5 | WV |
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, Maryland or West Virginia?
Maryland is the better fit for young professionals and small business; West Virginia is the better fit for remote workers; 3 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +2 places | #38score 56.3 | #36score 57.5 | +2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -2 places | #36score 55.8 | #38score 54.5 | -2 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap +8 places | #40score 43.6 | #32score 49 | +8 places | WV |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -7 places | #34score 49.1 | #41score 41.9 | -7 places | MD |
| Small BusinessGap -8 places | #31score 52 | #39score 46.1 | -8 places | MD |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -2 places | #36score 33.6 | #38score 31.4 | -2 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#38 vs #36)
- RetireesEven (#36 vs #38)
- Remote WorkersWest Virginia (#32 vs #40)
- Young ProfessionalsMaryland (#34 vs #41)
- Small BusinessMaryland (#31 vs #39)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#36 vs #38)
Which cities stand out in Maryland and West Virginia?
Maryland has 20 tracked cities and West Virginia has 20; the largest are Baltimore and Charleston. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Baltimore573,243 people | Charleston47,421 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Bethesdascore 76.7 | Bridgeportscore 62.8 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Rockville108 violent per 100K | Bridgeport74 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Baltimorecost index 104.5 | Fairmontcost index 87 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Bethesdawalkability 14.3 of 20 | Clarksburgwalkability 10.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Columbiacounty median AQI 33 | Clarksburgcounty median AQI 33 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Waldorf94% graduation rate | Wheeling98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Potomacmedian income $236,675 | Cheat Lakemedian income $117,014 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Frederick+3% growth | Martinsburg+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Maryland and West Virginia compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Maryland carries AAA credit rating and West Virginia AA-.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#36 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -36.7 (-100%) · US 29.6 | 0.0#1 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -36.7-100% | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap -4.1 pts · US 17.16% | 7.9%#24 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.8 min · US 25.2 min | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | +5.8 min | 25.2 min | WV |
| Commuters using public transitGap +4.4 pts · US 2.29% | 5%#5 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.8 pts · US 12.28% | 15.6%#9 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +5 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#8 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +5 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 | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 100#14 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | MD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -17.8 pts · US 12.39% | 7.5%#39 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -17.8 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap +9 pts · US 74.3% | 75%#25 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | +9 pts | 74.3% | MD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,870 (+75%) · US $3,506 | $4,350#40 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$1,870+75% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.7 pts · US +4.66% | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -6.7 pts | +4.66% | WV |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Maryland AAA, West Virginia AA-), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Maryland vs West Virginia: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Maryland is ahead on 15 of 51, West Virginia on 27, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MarylandMD | West VirginiaWV | GapMD−WV | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,499,200 (+255%) · US 6.8 million | 6.3 million#19 of 50 | 1.8 million#39 of 50 | +4,499,200+255% | 6.8 million | MD |
| Median household incomeGap +$42,107 (+69%) · US $80,903 | $102,905#3 of 50 | $60,798#49 of 50 | +$42,107+69% | $80,903 | MD |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.2 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#27 of 50 | 4.2%#31 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap +0.39 pts · US +0.51% | +0.32%#34 of 50 | -0.07%#48 of 50 | +0.39 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$26,292 (+63%) · US $64,333 | $68,357#16 of 50 | $42,065#49 of 50 | +$26,292+63% | $64,333 | MD |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.8 pts · US +1.91% | +2.3%#18 of 50 | +0.5%#46 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +1.91% | MD |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +116 (+48%) · US 328 | 358#34 of 50 | 242#19 of 50 | +116+48% | 328 | WV |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +766 (+73%) · US 1,535 | 1,820#43 of 50 | 1,053#9 of 50 | +766+73% | 1,535 | WV |
| High school graduation rateGap -4.9 pts · US 85.62% | 86.3%#26 of 50 | 91.2%#1 of 50 | -4.9 pts | 85.62% | WV |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +3 · US 237 | 234#39 of 50 | 232#46 of 50 | +3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 268#38 of 50 | 261#49 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +10 · US 214 | 216#20 of 50 | 206#48 of 50 | +10 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +11 · US 257 | 258#21 of 50 | 247#48 of 50 | +11 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +5.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.8#20 of 50 | 72.2#50 of 50 | +5.6 yrs | 76.9 | MD |
| Adults with obesityGap -8.7 pts · US 34.03% | 32.7%#19 of 50 | 41.4%#50 of 50 | -8.7 pts | 34.03% | MD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +0.5 pts · US 7.6% | 6.3%#18 of 50 | 5.8%#15 of 50 | +0.5 pts | 7.6% | WV |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$248,812 (+139%) · US $368,697 | $428,308#35 of 50 | $179,496#1 of 50 | +$248,812+139% | $368,697 | WV |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.1 pts · US +1.2% | 0%#41 of 50 | +3.1%#16 of 50 | -3.1 pts | +1.2% | WV |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$719 (+59%) · US $1,948 | $1,948#35 of 50 | $1,229#3 of 50 | +$719+59% | $1,948 | WV |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$69,414 (+147%) · US $100,006 | $116,485#36 of 50 | $47,071#1 of 50 | +$69,414+147% | $100,006 | WV |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +15.5 pts (+17%) · US 100 | 105#44 of 50 | 89.5#9 of 50 | +15.5 pts+17% | 100 | WV |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.2x (+40%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#22 of 50 | 3x#1 of 50 | +1.2x+40% | 4.6x | WV |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.07¢ (+26%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 19.48¢/kWh#38 of 50 | 15.41¢/kWh#27 of 50 | +4.07¢+26% | 17.84¢/kWh | WV |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$2.34 (+17%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $16.14/Mcf#28 of 50 | $13.80/Mcf#19 of 50 | +$2.34+17% | $15.83/Mcf | WV |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.32/gal#33 of 50 | $3.33/gal#37 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +6 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 102.5#42 of 50 | 96.5#27 of 50 | +6 pts+6% | 100 | WV |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$10,785 (+115%) · US $15,633 | $20,124#40 of 50 | $9,339#4 of 50 | +$10,785+115% | $15,633 | WV |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.19 pts · US 8.74% | 10.04%#42 of 50 | 8.85%#27 of 50 | +1.19 pts | 8.74% | WV |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.13 pts · US 5.46% | 8.95%#43 of 50 | 4.82%#21 of 50 | +4.13 pts | 5.46% | WV |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.47 pts · US 1.02% | 1.02%#30 of 50 | 0.55%#8 of 50 | +0.47 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.59 pts · US 6.66% | 6%#11 of 50 | 6.59%#20 of 50 | -0.59 pts | 6.66% | MD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +15 pts · US 92.7 | 100#14 of 50 | 85#43 of 50 | +15 pts | 92.7 | MD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -17.8 pts · US 12.39% | 7.5%#39 of 50 | 25.3%#3 of 50 | -17.8 pts | 12.39% | WV |
| Pension funded ratioGap +9 pts · US 74.3% | 75%#25 of 50 | 66%#38 of 50 | +9 pts | 74.3% | MD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,870 (+75%) · US $3,506 | $4,350#40 of 50 | $2,480#20 of 50 | +$1,870+75% | $3,506 | WV |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.7 pts · US +4.66% | +1.8%#44 of 50 | +8.5%#5 of 50 | -6.7 pts | +4.66% | WV |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 40#25 of 50 | 40#26 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +4 pts · US 29.34% | 12%#36 of 50 | 8%#44 of 50 | +4 pts | 29.34% | MD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -36.7 (-100%) · US 29.6 | 0.0#1 of 50 | 36.7#34 of 50 | -36.7-100% | 29.6 | MD |
| Public land shareGap -4.1 pts · US 17.16% | 7.9%#24 of 50 | 12%#19 of 50 | -4.1 pts | 17.16% | WV |
| Mean travel time to workGap +5.8 min · US 25.2 min | 32.3 min#49 of 50 | 26.5 min#34 of 50 | +5.8 min | 25.2 min | WV |
| Commuters using public transitGap +4.4 pts · US 2.29% | 5%#5 of 50 | 0.6%#38 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 2.29% | MD |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.8 pts · US 12.28% | 15.6%#9 of 50 | 8.8%#43 of 50 | +6.8 pts | 12.28% | MD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +5 pts · US 92.67% | 94.4%#8 of 50 | 89.4%#49 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.67% | MD |
| Households moving inIRSGap +62,387 (+299%) · US 78,682 | 83,281#18 of 50 | 20,894#43 of 50 | +62,387+299% | 78,682 | MD |
| Households moving outIRSGap +76,894 (+384%) · US 78,715 | 96,909#35 of 50 | 20,015#10 of 50 | +76,894+384% | 78,715 | WV |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -14,507 · US -33 | -13,628#45 of 50 | +879#23 of 50 | -14,507 | -33 | WV |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.7 · US +0.4 | -2.2#46 of 50 | +0.5#22 of 50 | -2.7 | +0.4 | WV |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$22,337 (+38%) · US $77,690 | $80,821#20 of 50 | $58,484#47 of 50 | +$22,337+38% | $77,690 | MD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$27,737 (+46%) · US $77,024 | $88,251#10 of 50 | $60,514#47 of 50 | +$27,737+46% | $77,024 | MD |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -5.5 · US +1.1 | -1.9#41 of 50 | +3.6#13 of 50 | -5.5 | +1.1 | WV |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$41,668 · US -$11,758 | -$30,684#39 of 50 | +$10,984#2 of 50 | -$41,668 | -$11,758 | WV |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$12,333 · US +$31,418 | +$26,870#36 of 50 | +$39,203#2 of 50 | -$12,333 | +$31,418 | WV |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$14,245 · US +$35,970 | +$30,111#38 of 50 | +$44,356#3 of 50 | -$14,245 | +$35,970 | WV |
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 Maryland and West Virginia numbers say when read together.
Maryland ranks higher overall
Maryland leads 4 of the 11 categories to West Virginia's 5, with 2 even; West Virginia is ahead on affordability and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Maryland is ahead on 15 and West Virginia on 27.
West Virginia is cheaper day to day
West Virginia's cost of living index is 89.5 against 105 in Maryland (US = 100). The typical home costs $428,308 in Maryland and $179,496 in West Virginia. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$30,684 a year after typical costs in Maryland and +$10,984 in West Virginia.
West Virginia takes a smaller share in taxes
Maryland collects 10.04% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack); West Virginia collects 8.85% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Maryland pays more
Median household income is $102,905 in Maryland and $60,798 in West Virginia, with unemployment at 4% and 4.2%. Violent crime runs 358 per 100,000 residents in Maryland and 242 in West Virginia.
Moves between the two run about even
3,355 people moved from Maryland to West Virginia and 2,338 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Families and retirees: a split decision
For families, Maryland ranks #38 of 50 and West Virginia #36; for retirees, Maryland ranks #36 and West Virginia #38.
Maryland vs West Virginia: frequently asked questions
Is Maryland or West Virginia better to live in?
Maryland ranks #31 of 50 overall and West Virginia #44 as of the latest release. West Virginia is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 89.5 vs 105), has a 1.2-point lower tax burden, and has a 32% lower violent crime rate. Maryland scores higher overall, leading 4 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Maryland cheaper than West Virginia?
West Virginia is cheaper than Maryland: cost of living index 89.5 vs 105 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$30,684 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Maryland, and +$10,984 in West Virginia. The typical home value is $428,308 in Maryland and $179,496 in West Virginia.
Which has lower taxes, Maryland or West Virginia?
West Virginia has the lower tax burden: 8.85% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.04% in Maryland. Maryland's top income tax rate is 8.95%, its effective property tax rate 1.02% and its combined sales tax 6%; West Virginia's are 4.82%, 0.55% and 6.59%.
Is Maryland safer than West Virginia?
West Virginia is safer: 242 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 358 in Maryland, per the FBI. Maryland ranks #34 of 50 for violent crime and West Virginia #19. Property crime is 1,820 per 100,000 in Maryland and 1,053 in West Virginia. The safest tracked cities are Rockville, MD, and Bridgeport, WV.
Are homes more expensive in Maryland or West Virginia?
Homes are 139% more expensive in Maryland: the typical home value is $428,308 in Maryland and $179,496 in West Virginia. Buying the typical home takes about $116,485 of household income in Maryland and $47,071 in West Virginia, against median incomes of $102,905 and $60,798.
Do people earn more in Maryland or West Virginia?
Maryland pays more: median household income is $102,905 vs $60,798 in West Virginia, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Maryland and 4.2% in West Virginia. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Maryland's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and West Virginia's in 0.
Are more people moving from Maryland to West Virginia or from West Virginia to Maryland?
2,549 households moved from Maryland to West Virginia and 1,608 moved from West Virginia to Maryland in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 941 households for West Virginia. Movers to West Virginia reported an average income of $62,922; movers to Maryland reported $53,808. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,355 people (±1,131) moving from Maryland to West Virginia and 2,338 (±902) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Maryland or West Virginia?
Maryland and West Virginia are close for retirees: #36 and #38 of 50 on the retiree index. Maryland has high income tax, low sales tax, with property tax in the middle of the pack; West Virginia has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$30,111 left after typical costs in Maryland and +$44,356 in West Virginia.
Which is better for families, Maryland or West Virginia?
Maryland and West Virginia are close for families: #38 and #36 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $20,124 a year in Maryland and $9,339 in West Virginia. High school graduation rates are 86.3% and 91.2%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$30,684 after typical costs in Maryland and +$10,984 in West Virginia.
Is West Virginia better than Maryland?
No: Maryland ranks higher than West Virginia overall, #31 of 50 vs #44, with a composite score of 53.6 to 42.8. Maryland leads 4 of 11 categories and West Virginia leads 5, including affordability and safety. 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 Maryland vs West Virginia.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,549 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).