DEMOGRAPHICS / ECONOMY

The region’s prime transportation assets—including the Port of Baltimore, railway system, high-speed highways, and the BMI or Baltimore-Washington International Airport—play an important role in the regional economy. They serve business and industry while directly supporting the area’s distribution, warehousing, and logistics companies. Beyond its deep roots in both trade and transportation, Maryland has emerged as a major technology center. The relationship with Washington continues to expand, spurring many federal research and regulatory agencies that serve as catalysts for technological activity. Growing sectors include software and computer services, data processing and information services, and the manufacturing of communications equipment. Maryland has long been active in the aerospace industry, while Baltimore  anchors the state’s thriving international services sector and claims the nation’s oldest brokerage house. The Baltimore area also boasts one of the highest concentrations of scientists and engineers in the nation.