Author
Home > Travel > What is the Difference Between Washington DC and Maryland?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Washington DC and Maryland?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The key difference between Washington DC and Maryland is that Maryland is a state, whereas Washington DC is a federal district. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Washington DC: It is the capital of the United States of America and is located along the Potomac River on the East Coast. The state of Virginia borders it on the southern shore of the Potomac River, and the state of Maryland borders it to the east, west, and north. Washington DC does not belong to any state and is considered an independent district. It is home to the centers of legislative, executive, and judicial sectors of the federal government.
  • Maryland: It is a state in the United States of America and shares a border with Washington DC to the east, west, and north. Maryland offers a variety of living options, including suburban areas, urban areas, and rural areas. It has its own distinct culture, economy, and government separate from Washington DC.

When deciding between living in Washington DC, Maryland, or Virginia, several factors need to be considered, such as schools, rent prices, and commuting costs. While Maryland and Virginia rent prices are usually around 70-80% of DC rent prices, the money saved in commuting by living closer to work can vary depending on the specific location. Additionally, the lifestyle and nightlife scenes may differ between the areas, with some people preferring the offerings in Maryland, DC, or Virginia.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Washington DC and Maryland?
  • Comparative Table: Washington DC vs Maryland

    • Comparative Table: Washington DC vs Maryland

    Here is a table highlighting the differences between Washington, D.C., and Maryland:

    Feature Washington, D.C. Maryland
    Size 68.3 square miles Varies
    Jurisdiction Separate from neighboring states, not part of any state Part of the United States
    Capital Yes, seat of the U.S. federal government No
    Statehood Not a state, but a federal district Not applicable
    Political Identity Separate political identity Not applicable
    Taxation All three jurisdictions (Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland) have reciprocity with each other, meaning that if you live in one state and work in another, you will be taxed based on the tax laws of the state you live in. However, Washington, D.C., has no exemptions or child credits, but its $24,000 standard deduction is enough to keep some families' taxable income lower than it would be in Maryland. Varies depending on the state and local jurisdiction

    Please note that this information focuses on the differences between Washington, D.C., and Maryland in terms of size, jurisdiction, status as a capital, statehood, and taxation.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.