I’m excited to share the latest installment in our State of the Economy series: the Housing and the Economy Report.

This report takes a deep look at Maryland’s housing market, revealing why rising costs are pushing families — especially younger and middle-income households — to leave our state.

• Housing costs are rising faster than wages. The median rent in Maryland is $1,721, but the wage needed to afford a 2-bedroom apartment is $39/hour, while the average wage is only $28/hour. Homeownership is similarly out of reach for many families.


• Maryland is losing residents to lower-cost states. Florida, Texas, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania are seeing more Marylanders moving away, while gains from other states aren’t enough to offset this trend.


• Our housing supply is insufficient. We currently have a shortage of about 100,000 units and need to build 590,000 new units by 2045. Maryland issues far fewer permits annually than neighboring states, and regulatory barriers — from zoning restrictions to infrastructure limitations — drive costs even higher.


• Housing affordability affects the economy. When families can’t afford to live here, communities lose residents, businesses lose workers, and the state loses revenue needed to fund essential public services.

Stable and affordable housing is critical for Maryland’s long-term economic growth. Our report outlines these challenges and sets the stage for discussions on how state and local governments can improve housing access and affordability. You can read the full report here.

Together, we can build a Maryland where families, seniors, and workers can live, thrive, and grow.

My best,

(She, Her, Hers)

P.S. As always, I appreciate your support. If you’re able, please consider donating to my re-election campaign so I can continue advocating for solutions to Maryland’s challenges.