With a population of roughly 6 million, Maryland is a small state in the Mid-Atlantic area of the United States. It is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, varied culture, and long history. But not every Maryland town is as charming as another. Numerous difficulties, including high rates of crime, low salaries, inadequate education, and environmental concerns, have been plaguing several cities. Residents of these places have been leaving in search of better lives and chances elsewhere. These are the seven Maryland towns that residents are escaping as quickly as possible.
1. Baltimore
With a population of roughly 600,000, Baltimore is the largest city in Maryland and the thirty-ninth largest in the United States. It serves as a significant port, an industrial hub, and a popular tourist attraction. On the other hand, Baltimore is known for being among the nation’s most violent and dangerous cities. With 335 murders in 2020, Baltimore has the highest homicide rate among major U.S. cities, according to the FBI. In addition, Baltimore has high rates of drug misuse, unemployment, poverty, and corruption. A large number of city dwellers have been relocating to safer and wealthier neighborhoods.
2. Salisbury
Over 30,000 people are living in the Maryland city of Salisbury, which is located along the Eastern Shore. It is the biggest city on the Delmarva Peninsula and the county seat of Wicomico County. Numerous higher education establishments, including Wor-Wic Community College and Salisbury University, are located in Salisbury. Salisbury is one of the top 10 most hazardous cities in Maryland, but it also has a high crime rate. In addition, Salisbury has a high percentage of poverty, a low level of educational attainment, and a poor median income. Salisbury’s population has been declining as a result of improved social and economic prospects.
3. Cumberland
About 20,000 people live in the city of Cumberland, which is located in Western Maryland. It serves as both the main city in the Cumberland Metropolitan Statistical Area and the county seat of Allegany County. Formerly referred to as the “Queen City” of the Allegheny Mountains, Cumberland was a bustling center of transportation and industry. But from the middle of the 20th century, Cumberland has been in decline due to the failure of its railroads and industry. Cumberland has a high unemployment rate, a high poverty rate, and a low median income. A large number of people have been moving to different regions of Maryland or nearby states.
4. Hagerstown
About 40,000 people live in the city of Hagerstown, which is located in Western Maryland. It is the biggest city in the Hagerstown-Martinsburg Metropolitan Area as well as the county seat of Washington County. Hagerstown is a thriving cultural and commercial hub that is home to numerous museums, parks, and historic buildings. Hagerstown is in the top 10 most dangerous cities in Maryland, but it also has a high crime rate. In addition, Hagerstown has a low level of educational attainment, a high rate of poverty, and a low median income. Hagerstown’s population has been declining in favor of safer and more affluent neighborhoods.
5. Cambridge
Roughly 12,000 people are living in the Maryland city of Cambridge, which is located along the Eastern Shore. It is the fourth-oldest city in Maryland and the county seat of Dorchester County. Cambridge is a picturesque, ancient city situated on the banks of the Choptank River. Nevertheless, Cambridge is one of the top 10 most hazardous cities in Maryland and has a high crime rate. In addition, Cambridge has a high percentage of poverty, a low level of educational attainment, and a poor median income. In search of better living conditions, many Cambridge residents have been leaving the city.
6. Elkton
In Northeastern Maryland, Elkton has roughly 15,000 residents. Cecil County seat and Chesapeake Bay head. Colonial and diversified, Elkton is a fascinating town. Elkton ranks among Maryland’s top 10 most dangerous communities for crime. Elkton has a low median income, significant poverty, and poor education. Elkton people are leaving for safer, wealthier regions.
7. Westminster
The population of Westminster, a city in Central Maryland, is roughly 18,000 people. It is the biggest city in Carroll County and serves as the county seat. Westminster is a small, charming community with a historic downtown and a rural feel. Westminster is one of the top 10 most hazardous cities in Maryland, but it also has a high crime rate. In addition, Westminster has a high percentage of poverty, a low level of educational attainment, and a poor median income. A large number of Westminster locals have been moving to more tranquil and affluent locations.
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In Summary
Due to various issues, these seven Maryland communities have lost their appeal and desirability. People are leaving these areas quickly for better jobs and lifestyles. Not all Maryland communities are doomed. Maryland has several municipalities with high quality of life, low crime, high wages, and strong education. These localities attract more Marylanders who enjoy the state’s privileges.