Maryland is one of the smallest states in terms of area, as well as one of the most densely populated states of the United States. The state's largest city is Baltimore, and its capital is Annapolis.

Maryland has the highest median household income, making it the wealthiest state in the nation.

Maryland is “America in Miniature” because of its varied landscape. You can ski in the mountains in the west, sail on the Atlantic Ocean in the east and hike through lush, creek-lined rolling hills in the middle of the state.

Those seeking to retire near water have more options here than in many other states. Maryland touches three major bodies of water, the Chesapeake Bay, the Potomac River estuary and Atlantic Ocean, and the state boasts roughly 4,000 miles of shoreline, 400 lakes and dozens of rivers and creeks. This means easy access to activities ranging from fly-fishing and boating to kayaking and canoeing.

Cultural opportunities are abundant. Baltimore has an opera, symphony and local theater; Annapolis has a myriad of museums and Maryland is just a short drive or train ride to Washington, D.C.