Located on the East Coast of the U.S., Maryland is classified as a South Atlantic State. As a historical border state, it is appropriately called the “Old Line State” and the “Free State.” A population of over 5 million people, Maryland is only 542 square miles. For a small state, it has a great variety of topography, granting its other nickname as “America in Miniature.”
      Ranging from sandy dunes in the east, low marshlands near the bay to rolling hills of the Piedmont region and pine groves in the west, Maryland offers a multitude of options for its residents. Bordered on the south by the infamous Potomac River and interrupted by Washington, D.C., the Chesapeake Bay nearly bisects the state. Bass fishing is better than anywhere on the East Coast and the waters of the Chesapeake Bay and the Patuxent and Potomac River are a favorite with boaters. Maryland is rich in historical significance and landmarks while offering a mix of the mountains, the bay, the Atlantic Ocean, a vast assortment of outdoor activities and unique attractions with big-city excitement and Main Street timelessness.

Did You Know...

State Nickname: The Old Line State State Capital: Annapolis State Flower: Black-eyed Susan State Bird: Baltimore Oriole

      Maryland is an exceptionally convenient transportation hub, centrally located on the mid-Atlantic corridor and served by a host of choices designed so that your journey or commute can be as hassle-free and pleasurable. Ronald Regan Washington National Airport, Washington-Dulles International Airport, the subway, light rail, buses, five main arteries of highway systems and even water taxies make it easy to get around the state.
      With 24 counties, Maryland offers several housing options for its residents. From seaside homes to city condominiums, rural farm and historic homes to grassy suburban lots, there is the perfect home for anyone’s tastes. Within a half-day drive or less to New England’s major cities, Maryland can offer the buzz of city life,

charming tree-lined roads in the outskirts or vacation homes on the water. Most of the population lives in the central region of the state, in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. The Eastern shore is less populous and more rural, as are the counties in the southern part of the state. The three counties of Western Maryland are mountainous and sparsely populated, providing large ranch and farm homes.
     Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast or pocket anthropologist, Maryland has a bevy of things to do. Check out the Western Region for Deep Creek Lake, waterfalls and a portion of the Appalachian Trail. A patriotic experience is available in the Capital Region, where residents can explore Washington, D.C. and learn about space travel at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. Maryland's Southern Region boasts historical sites dating back to prehistoric times. Take a whirl through the expansive Central Region with a mix of intimate vineyards, immaculate public gardens and the nightlife of Baltimore's Inner Harbor. The Eastern Shore, with its abundance of fishing, quiet country roads and beach-bumming pleasures seems like a year-round vacation. Drive along some of the Civil War Trails, explore the Historic National Road, pause in Baltimore at the birthplace of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and indulge in the state’s diverse heritage. Maryland is also the home of the Preakness and other action-packed spectator sports, as well as four seasons of recreational pursuits like sailing, golfing and skiing.

Donating Washington D.C. in 1791, Maryland’s three counties that border the nation’s capital are steeped with history, state and national parks and an array of restaurants.
      The Eastern Shore is known for the blue crab and the Southern hospitality that greets you.
      Economic strengths are bolstered by transportation and centered around the Port of Baltimore and its related rail and trucking access. The port’s primary imports are raw materials and bulk commodities, such as iron ore, petroleum, sugar, fertilizers and imported vehicles. Taking advantage of the close location of Washington, D.C., defense, aerospace, bio-research laboratories and satellite government headquarters add to the economic strength of the Baltimore/Washington area. Additionally, many educational and medical research institutions are located in Maryland. Namely, John Hopkins University and its medical research facilities is the largest single employer in the area. White collar technical and administrative workers comprise 25 percent of Maryland’s labor force, making it one of the highest rates in the country.