What pays best in Maryland?

How to use this tool

Choose one of 20 job categories, then select Show top 20. The page ranks the occupations in that category by estimated annual earnings in Maryland, highest first. Categories follow the federal Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) major groups, so they line up with how government agencies and employers classify work.

Use the results to compare career paths, prepare for salary negotiations, or see which roles in a field sit at the top of the pay scale. Occupations in the highest-paying groups (healthcare practitioners, management, computer and mathematical, legal) tend to require advanced degrees, licensure, or years of experience.

Methodology and data limits

Earnings are estimated annual mean wages for each occupation statewide. They are modeled on the published patterns of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, adjusted to reflect Maryland's labor market, which pays above the national average because of its concentration of federal, defense, biotech, and health-care employers.

• Not live job postings. The figures describe typical pay for a role, not specific openings from specific employers.
• Estimates, rounded. Actual pay varies by region (Montgomery County and Baltimore differ from the Eastern Shore), employer, experience, and credentials.
• Averages hide ranges. Entry-level pay is lower and senior pay is higher than the figure shown.
• Verify before deciding. For official current figures, consult the BLS OEWS tables at bls.gov/oes or the Maryland Department of Labor.

Frequently asked questions

Why do some categories show fewer than 20 occupations?

Some categories, such as Legal or Building & Grounds Maintenance, contain fewer distinct occupations. The page shows every occupation available, up to 20.

Are these salaries or hourly wages?

All figures are annual earnings before taxes. To estimate an hourly rate, divide by 2,080, the number of hours in a full-time work year.

Does the list include bonuses or benefits?

No. Figures reflect base pay only and exclude bonuses, equity, overtime premiums, and benefits such as health insurance or retirement contributions.

Can I see jobs that are open right now?

This tool ranks occupations by pay; it does not list vacancies. The Maryland Workforce Exchange and major job boards list current openings.

Some places to start for your job search:

• Maryland Worforce Exchange
• Maryland Jobs Quick Search
• Maryland.gov Job & Career Support

About this site

Maryland Job Earnings Finder is an independent reference tool that helps job seekers, students, and career changers understand how pay compares across occupations in Maryland. It is not affiliated with the State of Maryland or any government agency.

Contact

Questions, corrections, or data suggestions are welcome. Email info@marylandemployment.com. We aim to reply within five business days.

Privacy Policy

Last updated: September 28, 2026

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Terms of Use

The information on this site is provided for general reference only and is offered "as is" without warranty of accuracy or completeness. It is not career, financial, or legal advice. Pay figures are estimates and should be verified with official sources or employers before you make employment decisions. We are not liable for decisions made based on this information. By using the site you agree to these terms.