No matter your race, ethnicity, gender or sexuality — Maryland welcomes you. In fact, Maryland is the most diverse state on the East Coast, and home to the top three most diverse cities in the U.S. A diverse, equitable and inclusive environment makes Maryland a great place to live, and a great place to do business.
Diverse Perspectives Benefit Business
Maryland’s population offers diverse perspectives and backgrounds, which research shows boosts creativity, fosters innovation, and benefits decision making. Having your business in a state that values diversity, equity and inclusion can help attract talent. According to the Global Business Coalition for Education, 76 percent of employees and job seekers said a diverse workforce was an important factor in their job application process.
Here, you’ll find open-minded and welcoming neighbors and a place where every individual is valued and celebrated. Established Maryland laws protect women’s rights and LGBTQ and minority communities, and leaders are committed to safeguarding and advancing these populations. Scroll to explore some of Maryland’s most diverse communities.
Baltimore City
Central Maryland
With many LGBTQ-friendly venues and activities, Baltimore is a diverse city that welcomes and celebrates LGBTQ individuals. Be unapologetically you in Baltimore and find endless entertainment – from drag brunch on the weekends, to epic Pride celebrations, to run-ins with the filmmaker and LGBTQ icon John Waters, a Baltimorean. Check out some of Baltimore’s welcoming neighborhoods like Charles Village, Mt. Vernon and Hampden, home to many proud, LGBTQ owned businesses.
Just outside Washington D.C., Silver Spring is one of the nation’s most diverse cities. The town offers ethnic diversity, and endless ways to explore and experience different cultures and traditions in one welcoming community. Sitting within the nation’s largest biotech hubs, Silver Spring and surrounding communities aren’t just diverse, they’re rife with job opportunities.
Columbia
Central Maryland
Columbia has been a model town for embracing diversity since the 1960s, and that still rings true today. In addition to gaining recognition as a leader in equality for women, Columbia – which sits directly between Washington D.C. and Baltimore – has been recognized as a leading city for people with disabilities.
Maryland is a Mosaic of Cultures
Here in Maryland, enjoy authentic global experiences. Connect with communities that remind you of yours far away, or immerse yourself in cultures from all over the globe. In Ellicott City’s Koreatown, explore more than 170 Korean businesses. In Baltimore, taste and experience the Mediterranean in Greek Town and Little Italy. And all across Maryland, find new ways to experience new flavors, sounds and traditions, by attending the many cultural festivals that take place all over the state.
