Maryland offers the broadest range of recreational, intellectual and cultural activities in one of the most convenient and active business and financial regions of the country. It ranks first in the nation with the number of professional and technical workers in the labor pool, particularly in its thriving high-tech industries. Its highly accredited 58 educational institutions provide virtually every kind of training and research required by business and industry. It is also tied with Massachusetts as the top state for educational attainment as nearly 40% of the state’s population age 25 and above hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The diverse cultural attractions of large cities and the charms of the countryside in Maryland are easily accessible to residents and visitors. Beaches, mountains, forests, parks and the magnificent Chesapeake Bay are located just a few hours from anywhere in the state. You will also have a variety of residential housing options to choose from as well, including urban town homes, waterfront estates, planned suburban communities, small historic towns, or country retreats.