Regarding job opportunities, government employment plays a big role in Baltimore and Maryland’s economy. Based on 2019 census data, government workers in Maryland numbered 490,076.
“Of these, 145,695 were federal workers, 99,127 worked for State government, and 245,253 were employed by the county and municipal governments,” according to Maryland State Archives.
Moreover, Washington D.C. and New York City are conveniently accessible to drivers and commuters living in Baltimore. Residents can work in these more expensive locations without paying NYC or D.C. rates.
Regarding costs of living, grocery, healthcare, and housing expenses in Baltimore are lower than the national average. However, transportation and utility costs are higher than national averages by 7% and 24% respectively, according to Bestplaces.net.
6. Milwaukee, Wis.
- Median home value: $159,779
- Median household income: $41,838
- Annual home insurance cost: $947
- Cost of Living Index: 84.9
This city is the economic and cultural center of the Milwaukee metropolitan area, which is the fourth-most densely populated metro in the Midwest.