Have you ever considered moving from California to Maryland? Or vice versa? While it may seem like a strange comparison, California is actually the fourth largest state sending the most people to Maryland according to the U.S Census Bureau. In this blog post, we’ll compare the pros and cons of living in these two states.

Housing

Let’s start with housing. What can you get in Maryland compared to California for a budget of $850,000? Back in the day, a family was able to buy a house in Potomac, Maryland for the same amount they sold their condo in Los Angeles, which was exciting since they were about to have two little ones. But what does that budget look like today? After a quick search on the MLS, we found several options locally, but let’s take a look at one house that sold in Potomac recently for $820,000. It was built in 1983, has four bedrooms, three baths, hardwood floors, a nice kitchen, and a great backyard.

In comparison, what can you get in Los Angeles for $850,000? We found no single-family homes for that price, and the closest we found was a house with one bedroom and one bathroom, 640 square feet for $900,000. So, you would need to buy a condo again. We found one for $759,000, a two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit of about 1,100 square feet, but it had almost $1,200 a month in HOA fees. Needless to say, you get a lot more for your money in Maryland.

Weather and Daily Life One of the biggest pros and cons of living in Maryland vs. California is the weather. Los Angeles has no humidity and no mosquitoes, which is a huge plus for those who get bitten easily. But moving to Maryland means you’ll have to deal with humidity and mosquitoes, which can be a downside. However, Maryland does have four seasons, which can be great for those who enjoy a variety of weather throughout the year.

Economy

California’s economy is one of the largest in the world, and it’s home to some of the biggest tech companies like Apple, Google, and Facebook. Maryland’s economy is also strong, but it’s more focused on government-related industries like defense and cybersecurity. This means that job opportunities may differ between the two states, depending on your industry.

Sports

Sports fans may be interested in the differences between the two states. California has many professional sports teams, including the Lakers, Dodgers, and 49ers. Maryland, on the other hand, has the Ravens and the Orioles. While the options may be fewer in Maryland, it can still be a great place for sports fans.

Culture Both California and Maryland have unique cultures. California is known for its laid-back, beachy vibe and its focus on healthy living. Maryland, on the other hand, is known for its seafood, especially its crab cakes, and its historical sites like the Chesapeake Bay and Annapolis. Both states have their own music scenes, with California being home to many music festivals and Maryland having a strong blues and jazz culture.

In conclusion, both California and Maryland have their pros and cons, depending on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for more affordable housing and a variety of seasons, Maryland may be the way to go. If you’re in the tech industry and prefer a more laid-back lifestyle, California may be the better choice. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and priorities.