Moving to Baltimore

Expats and newcomers moving to Baltimore from elsewhere in the US usually fit in and settle easily in the city. Just a short drive from the US capital of Washington, DC, and home to around 2.4 million people, the Charm City – as Baltimore is fondly referred to by locals – is a surprisingly massive metro and rather diverse too. Foreigners and out-of-towners looking to relocate will adjust to life in this ethnic and cultural melting pot with minimal effort.

Living in Baltimore as an expat

Those moving to Baltimore seeking a job will be pleased to know that the city has a buzzing economy, filled with plenty of opportunity. Historically, shipping, transportation, manufacturing and steel have been the prominent industries, but recently Baltimore has seen other exciting industries such as finance, healthcare and higher education become major income generators. Not only that, but those keen to have a crack at a tech start-up might do well in Baltimore, as the city has seen a wave of these spring up in the last few years.

There is an extensive range of accommodation options available in Baltimore, with a broad price bracket, so just about anyone will be able to find a home that suits their lifestyle and pocket. Like any big city, prices in Baltimore will vary quite a bit depending on the area and suburb, with some being significantly pricier than others.

New arrivals and expats concerned with how they might get around once in the city can rest easy. Although most Baltimore residents drive, there are various public transport alternatives that make getting about town uncomplicated and quite painless. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) oversees the city’s extensive public transport network, which includes various rail and bus services.

In terms of medical care, new arrivals will be in good hands – provided they have adequate health insurance, of course. The city is home to Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Centre, both of which are among the leading healthcare facilities in the USA and provide an excellent standard of care.

Cost of living in Baltimore

Something expats and prospective residents of a new city should always consider is, of course, its cost of living. Although Baltimore is so close to DC, and increasingly favoured as a base from which to commute for those working in the capital, the city's cost of living is incredibly reasonable when compared to the other big East Coast cities. That said, it's not exactly cheap, so it's best for newcomers to factor in expenses such as rent, utilities and lifestyle costs when negotiating a salary.

Families and children in Baltimore

Those moving to the city with little ones will be happy to know that the city has a wide range of schools. But the number and varying standards of schools also means that parents must conduct a fair bit of research before settling on the right school for their children, including the choice between public or private school.

When it comes to having fun in the city, Baltimorean families have little to complain about, and new arrivals will have a ball exploring their new city. It boasts a massive range of thrilling attractions, including several museums, art galleries, eateries, an aquarium and leafy parks. Another reason why so many people are choosing the Charm City is its central location, which makes it a great base from which to explore other prominent US destinations such as family-friendly Philadelphia and Washington, DC.

Climate in Baltimore

Baltimore has a humid subtropical climate, and new arrivals should expect long, hot summers and cool winters. Summers are humid and temperatures average 81°F (27°C), with thunderstorms occasionally occurring in the late afternoon. Winter is generally mild, but snowfalls do occur occasionally, and temperatures can drop to 19°F (-7°C). Spring and autumn in Baltimore are probably the most pleasant seasons, although rainfall is at its highest in the spring. 

Moving to Baltimore won’t require too many cultural adjustments for those relocating from cities in developed countries, and those moving from elsewhere in the US will acclimatise to their new city in no time. 

Baltimore is well-equipped in terms of infrastructure, home to a culturally diverse population that is welcoming of newcomers, and has job opportunities in abundance. This, combined with the fact that the city boasts so much to see and do, plus its central location, make Baltimore a choice destination for anyone looking to start an exciting new chapter.