Maryland Facing Exodus; Residents Leaving These Five Places in Droves
Maryland is located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States and has a population of approximately 6 million. Despite its rich history, diverse culture, and magnificent environment, not every town in the state is equally enticing to reside in.
Certain places have low wages, inadequate education, high crime rates, and limited possibilities. According to some estimates, locals are leaving these five Maryland areas at a rapid pace.
Baltimore
Baltimore, Maryland’s largest city, is unfortunately well-known for its decades-long history of racial tension, poverty, crime, and corruption.
In 2019, it had the highest homicide rate among the 50 major cities in the United States, with 348 homicides (58.3 per 100,000 people). Baltimore’s dismal performance in infrastructure, health, education, and the economy prompted many residents to leave the city and its institutions behind.
Salisbury
Salisbury University, with nearly 8,700 students, is located in Salisbury, the largest city on the Eastern Shore and the county seat of Wicomico County. However, there is a downside. In 2019, there were 1,216 registered violent crimes and 4,027 recorded property crimes, corresponding to 12.7 and 42.1 per 1,000 inhabitants, respectively.
As a result of the city’s 25.9% poverty rate and low median family income of $39,930, many residents are migrating to safer and more lucrative locations.
Cumberland
Cumberland, in western Maryland, has fallen precipitously from its former role as a thriving industrial and transportation hub since the mid-twentieth century.
The city has a low median household income of $35,920, a 22.6% poverty rate, and a 7.5% unemployment rate. Its low population of 19,707 and negative growth rate of -1.1% exacerbate its economic problems. As a result, many residents have relocated elsewhere in quest of better job opportunities and living conditions.
Hagerstown
Hagerstown, the county seat of Washington County, is a city in northwest Maryland with a population of 40,100 and a growth rate of -0.2%. The city faces a high poverty rate of 23.8%, a low median household income of $41,550, and a slew of other issues such as homelessness, drugs, crime, and blight. Because of these obstacles, many people have left Hagerstown in search of more vibrant and rich environs.
Cambridge
Cambridge, the county seat of Dorchester County and a city on the Eastern Shore, has a population of 12,285 and a negative growth rate of -0.6%. Despite its great maritime heritage, the city has a troubled history of racial intolerance and violence.
These challenges are reflected in the low median family income of $36,517, the 27.4% poverty rate, and the 6.9% unemployment rate. Residents are leaving Cambridge in search of more open and diverse communities.
Conclusion
In summary, these five Maryland towns are considered tough to live in due to high crime rates, low income, poor education, and limited opportunities. Many people have chosen to leave these locations in pursuit of better possibilities elsewhere.
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