A recent report highlights that Maryland is falling behind surrounding states in key economic indicators, signaling potential long-term consequences for employment, local government revenues, and regional competitiveness. According to the American Legislative Exchange Council’s latest rankings, Maryland places 42nd nationally in Economic Outlook, the lowest among its regional peers. Virginia ranks 32nd, Pennsylvania 36th, Delaware 38th, and even West Virginia outperforms Maryland at 16th. The state also ranks 41st in Economic Performance, suggesting persistent structural challenges.
The Maryland Chamber of Commerce attributes these trends to high operational costs for businesses, burdensome regulations, and insufficient policies aimed at fostering economic expansion. When companies and skilled workers choose to relocate elsewhere, counties face diminished job creation, strained public services, and reduced fiscal flexibility. This slowdown in economic momentum limits funding available for essential investments in transportation, education, and healthcare.
Despite these setbacks, Maryland retains significant advantages, including a well-educated labor force and a strategic geographic position near major East Coast markets. To strengthen its standing, coordinated efforts are needed at the county and state levels. Tools such as Enterprise Zones and Opportunity Zones can play a pivotal role in attracting private capital, supporting existing employers, and enhancing local financial stability.
At the upcoming 2025 MACo Winter Conference in Cambridge, MD, experts will discuss effective strategies for utilizing state and federal incentives to stimulate regional growth. The event, themed “Local Leadership, Lasting Impact: Shaping What’s Next,” will take place from December 10–12 at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Hotel.
— news from Maryland Association of Counties
\n\n— News Original —\nReport Shows Maryland Trailing Region in Economic Outlook\n\nMaryland’s declining economic rankings indicate deeper challenges that could impact jobs, local revenues, and long-term growth throughout the state. \n\nAccording to the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, Maryland’s latest national economic rankings indicate that the state is continuing to fall behind its neighbors, raising concerns about long-term growth and fiscal stability. These rankings, released by the American Legislative Exchange Council, highlight long-standing challenges tied to high business costs, regulatory hurdles, and a lack of pro-growth policies. \n\nFrom the MD Chamber blog: \n\nMaryland ranks last among neighboring states in Economic Outlook (42nd), behind Virginia (32nd), Pennsylvania (36th), Delaware (38th), and West Virginia (16th). Economic Performance is near the bottom (41st), while Delaware (17th) and Virginia (26th) are gaining momentum. \n\nWhen businesses and residents relocate to other states, counties experience slower job growth, weaker revenue streams, and greater pressure on services. Sluggish economic activity also limits the resources available to invest in infrastructure, education, and public health at the local level. \n\nMaryland continues to have strong assets, including a skilled workforce and strategic location, but maintaining competitiveness will require coordinated action. Leveraging incentives such as Enterprise Zones and Opportunity Zones is a crucial tool for counties in attracting investment, retaining employers, and strengthening fiscal resilience. \n\nRead the full article. \n\nAt the 2025 MACo Winter Conference Economic Development session, “Incentives That Work: A Modern Toolkit for County Economic Development,” panelists will offer practical strategies for leveraging state and federal incentives to drive growth. \n\nThe 2025 MACo Winter Conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Hotel in Cambridge, MD, from December 10-12, 2025. This year’s theme is “Local Leadership, Lasting Impact: Shaping What’s Next.” More information can be found on our conference website. \n\nLearn more about MACo’s Winter Conference: \n\nAttendee Registration Pricing \n\nAttendee Online Registration \n\nAttendee Registration Guide – PLEASE READ! (new registration system) \n\nAttendee Brochure (with full schedule) \n\nExhibitor Brochure \n\nExhibitor Registration Guide – PLEASE READ! (new registration system) \n\nSponsorship Opportunities \n\nHotel Details \n\n2024 Winter Conference Photos (see what it’s like!) \n\nConduit Street Blog Coverage \n\n#MACoCon on Twitter