Kentucky
Moderate tax burden · COL index 85
Wins 8 categories
Maryland
High tax burden · COL index 116
Wins 4 categories
Maryland's top income tax rate is 5.75% vs Kentucky's 4%. Cost of living in Maryland (index 116) runs 36% higher than Kentucky (index 85). The median home in Maryland costs $420K vs $215K in Kentucky. Politically, Kentucky voted Republican in 2024 (R+26.0) while Maryland went Democratic (D+24.0).
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
8
Kentucky
4
Maryland
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Why are residents leaving Maryland?
Maryland is losing residents to lower-cost states at a high rate. While families pack their bags, citing crushing taxes and costs, state and local leaders are doubling down on their current policies.
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