Why are young professionals leaving Maryland?

Young professionals are considering leaving Maryland due to the lack of affordable housing options.

What is the housing shortage in Maryland?

Maryland has a housing shortage of 100,000 units and needs to construct close to 600,000 new units by 2045.

What do Maryland voters think about housing costs?

Ninety percent of Maryland voters believe the cost of buying a home is too high, and 88% feel rent is too expensive.

Home / Business and Economy / Maryland's Future Flees High Housing Costs

Maryland's Future Flees High Housing Costs

11 Feb

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Summary

Nearly half of young professionals consider leaving Maryland due to housing costs.
Most voters find buying homes and renting in Maryland prohibitively expensive.
Maryland faces a shortage of 100,000 housing units, needing 600,000 by 2045.

Maryland's Future Flees High Housing Costs

A growing number of Marylanders are leaving the state, primarily driven by soaring housing costs. A January 2026 survey by Maryland REALTORS found that 49% of young professionals are contemplating a move due to the lack of affordable housing. This trend impacts essential workers such as teachers, first responders, and healthcare professionals, who are relocating to neighboring states like Pennsylvania and Virginia, as well as Washington D.C., Florida, and Texas.

The survey indicates a widespread dissatisfaction with housing expenses; 90% of voters believe buying a home in Maryland is too costly, a six-point increase from the previous year and a substantial 33-point jump since 2020. Rent is also deemed too expensive by 88% of respondents, and 62% feel there is insufficient housing for moderate-income individuals.