Top Paying Jobs in Maryland
Maryland has 100 tracked occupation categories totaling 340,270 jobs. The highest-paying occupations include Radiologists ($581,510), Emergency Medicine Physicians ($451,620), Dermatologists ($442,210). The cost of living index is 98.76 (national average = 100). Median 2-bedroom rent is $1,795/month.
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State-level averages. Salaries, rent, and cost of living vary significantly between metros. For more accurate data, select a metro area from the list below or browse all metros.
$173K
Avg. median salary
98.76
Cost of living index
$1,795
Median 2BR rent
6,177,220
Population
Highest paying careers in Maryland
| Rank | Occupation | Category | Median salary | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 81 | Artists and Related Workers, All Other | Arts & Media | $129K | $61.83/hr |
| 82 | Construction Managers | Management | $128K | $61.7/hr |
| 83 | Chemical Engineers | Engineering | $127K | $61.15/hr |
| 84 | Actuaries | Technology | $127K | $61.04/hr |
| 85 | Detectives and Criminal Investigators | Public Safety | $127K | $60.93/hr |
| 86 | Business Teachers, Postsecondary | Education | $127K | N/A |
| 87 | Computer Programmers | Technology | $126K | $60.37/hr |
| 88 | Education Administrators, All Other | Management | $126K | $60.34/hr |
| 89 | Electrical Engineers | Engineering | $125K | $60.17/hr |
| 90 | Database Administrators | Technology | $124K | $59.76/hr |
Affordability snapshot: Maryland
These are statewide averages. Costs vary widely between metros, click into a specific city for precise numbers.
Cost of living vs. national average-1.2% less expensive
2-bedroom apartment (FMR)$1,795/mo
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Metro areas in Maryland
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Compare Maryland to other cities
Side-by-side salary and cost of living comparison
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Calculate take-home pay in Maryland
After federal and state taxes
Can you afford a 2-bedroom in Maryland?
Salary thresholds by HUD rent data
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Maryland?
Monthly budget breakdown with HUD and BLS data