Where Is Maryland? See Its Map Location and Surrounding States

One of the original 13 colonies, Maryland is named after Queen Henrietta Maria of England, the wife of King Charles I. Maryland was a critical location during the American Revolutionary War. Baltimore Town even served as the temporary capital of the colonies from December 1776 through February 1777 during the Second Continental Congress. Today, the U.S. capital borders Maryland, and the federal government is one of the state’s top employers. But where is Maryland? Discover its map location and surrounding states below.

Where Is Maryland on a Map?

Maryland is located on the eastern coast of the North American continent. To the east of the state is the Atlantic Ocean.

Here is Maryland on a map:

Which States Border Maryland?

Pennsylvania borders Maryland’s north side, and Virginia and the Atlantic Ocean border the south side of the state. To the east is Delaware, as well as the Atlantic Ocean, and to the west is West Virginia.

When Did Maryland Officially Join the U.S.?

Amid the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783), Maryland ratified the Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union in 1781. The Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union functioned as the first frame of government, and Maryland was the last of the colonies to ratify it. Later, Maryland ratified the new U.S. Constitution in 1788, making it the seventh state to join the Union.

Is Maryland a Good Place to Live?

With 37 miles of coastline, Maryland features gorgeous beaches, historic harbors, and the tourist’s favorite: Chesapeake Bay. There’s no doubt that Maryland is a beautiful state. In fact, according to U.S. News & World Report, Maryland ranks the 5^th best out of all 50 states for natural environment. This is a category that evaluates pollution threats and air and water quality.

Maryland is also one of the top 20 safest states to reside in. Maryland’s Open Data Portal reports show a decline in crime between 2010 and 2020. Regarding school and health, Maryland also takes top honors as one of the top 10 states with the best school system. U.S. News & World Report ranks Maryland 1st in healthcare quality and 9th for healthcare access. Overall, Maryland is ranked the 22nd-best state in the U.S.

Unfortunately, Maryland is also one of the most expensive states for residents. Maryland’s cost of living is 22 percent higher than the national average. Housing, taxes, and food costs are all above the national average in Maryland.

What Is the Climate in Maryland?

The summers in Maryland are warm and humid. Temperatures peak in July, with highs that average in the upper 80s. The coldest month, January, usually averages in the mid-20s. And the state typically sees 20.6 inches of snow on average per year. Annually, Maryland receives about 59 inches of rain, with July and August being the months with the most thunderstorms. Those two months experience a thunderstorm every five days on average. The most pleasant weather is during the spring and fall.

What Is Maryland Most Known For?

Because of the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, Maryland has a huge fishing industry. The state produces the most blue crabs in the country. Speaking of food, Maryland is also famous for its pit beef sandwiches, Old Bay seasoning, and Natty Boh beer.

Additionally, Maryland is known as the birthplace of the national anthem. Fort McHenry in Baltimore was essential to securing the city for the Union. Lawyer and poet Francis Scott Key witnessed the British bombardment of Fort McHenry on September 14, 1814. Miraculously, the American troops survived, and the American flag still waved proudly from the fort. This event inspired Key to write the poem “The Defence of Fort McHenry,” later known as “The Star Spangled Banner.”

Maryland also has one of the biggest Renaissance festivals in the country. More than 250,000 attendees enjoy the annual event. Festival offerings include a rich selection of food, jousting, and live performers, with past performers including The Flying Karamazov Brothers and Penn and Teller.

And finally, Maryland is known for its most populated and historic city, Baltimore. Established in 1729, Baltimore was a vibrant shipping port for tobacco and grain, and the waterways were utilized for flour milling.

Today, the city is home to some of the earliest National Register Historic Districts in the United States and the nation’s oldest railroad, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. All in all, almost one-third of Baltimore’s buildings are historic. So, if you’re a history buff, Baltimore is the city to visit!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Christian Hinkle/Shutterstock.com