USA Maryland | North America

Maryland is located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the East Coast, bordering Pennsylvania to the north, Delaware and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Virginia and Washington, D.C. to the south and west, and West Virginia to the west. It is nearly bisected by the Chesapeake Bay, creating distinct Eastern and Western shores. The capital city is Annapolis.

History & Culture

Maryland was founded in 1634 as a proprietary colony under Lord Baltimore, established as a haven for English Catholics. It was one of the original 13 colonies and played a strategic role in the War of 1812, most notably during the defense of Fort McHenry in Baltimore. Primary religious affiliations are Christianity (69%, with 23% Catholic) and irreligious/secular (23%). Independence Day (July 4) is the primary national holiday. Social etiquette emphasizes Mid-Atlantic professional decorum, a strong regional identity tied to the Chesapeake Bay, and a standardized 18–25% tipping expectation.

Language & Communication

English is the official and universal language. Spanish is the most significant secondary language (spoken by approx. 10% of the population), followed by French and various Asian languages in the D.C. suburban corridor. Regional accents include the distinct "Baltimoreese" (or "Bawlmer") dialect found in and around Baltimore.

Population & Economy

The population is approximately 6.2 million, with 87% urban and 13% rural distribution. Top three export commodities are aircraft parts, petroleum gas, and vaccines/blood products. GDP per capita is approximately $78,500 USD. The economy is heavily driven by federal government activities, defense contracting, biotechnology, and healthcare, with the Port of Baltimore serving as a major international logistics node.

Visa & Entry Policy

Effective January 1, 2026, under Presidential Proclamation 10998, visa issuance is suspended or restricted for nationals of 39 countries to enhance security screening. Citizens of most EU nations and the UK still require an ESTA for stays up to 90 days. Other international travelers require a B1/B2 visa. There is no Visa on Arrival system. Customs enforcement at Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) is strict regarding agricultural products.

Currency & Payment Systems

The currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Card payments and mobile "tap-to-pay" are universal. Cash is primarily used for small tips, at independent seafood markets, or within informal maritime sectors. ATM availability is high across all urban and suburban corridors.

National Transport Grid

Intercity travel is dominated by the Amtrak Northeast Corridor and the Interstate Highway System (I-95, I-70, I-83). The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides extensive commuter rail (MARC), light rail, and bus services. Domestic and international aviation is anchored by BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport. Long-distance bus transit is provided by Greyhound and Megabus.

Digital Infrastructure

Major mobile network providers are Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. 5G coverage is comprehensive throughout the Baltimore-Washington corridor. Maryland's 2025–2026 IT Master Plan prioritizes the expansion of broadband in the rural Eastern Shore and Western Maryland mountain regions, alongside the integration of AI in state technology delivery.

Climate & Seasonality

The climate is predominantly humid subtropical, featuring four distinct seasons. Western Maryland (Appalachian region) features a humid continental climate with colder winters and higher snowfall. The state experiences humid summers and mild to cold winters. The Atlantic hurricane season (June–November) occasionally impacts the coastal regions.

Health & Safety

No mandatory vaccines are required for entry. Environmental risks include coastal flooding, severe thunderstorms, and tick-borne illnesses (Lyme disease). The emergency number for Police, Ambulance, and Fire is 911.

Top 3 Major Regions & Cities

Baltimore Metropolitan Area (Logistics/Healthcare): Hub city is Baltimore.

National Capital Region (Government/Tech): Hub cities are Bethesda and Silver Spring.

The Eastern Shore (Agriculture/Tourism): Hub city is Salisbury.

Local Cost Index

1L Water: $2.30 USD

1 Domestic Beer: $7.00 USD

1 Sim Card (Data Plan): $45.00 USD

Facts & Legends

Maryland is known as the "Old Line State" and the "Free State." A prominent local legend is the "Chessie," a purported sea monster in the Chesapeake Bay described as a long, snake-like creature; sightings peaked in the 1980s, though it remains a central figure in regional folklore. Additionally, the state is famous for its blue crabs and Old Bay Seasoning.