Find a Job You Really Want In
Top 10 Cities in Maryland with the Lowest Unemployment Rates (2026)
If you’re considering a career change but love your current home, the job market in your local area is crucial. In 2026, we present the Maryland cities with the strongest job markets, indicated by their low unemployment rates. Understanding these dynamics can help you navigate your career options effectively.
Many people reside in their communities due to job opportunities. Whether you’re a new resident seeking employment or contemplating a move to Maryland, knowing which cities offer the best job prospects is vital.
We analyzed data from the latest American Community Survey to identify Maryland’s cities with the lowest unemployment rates. We focused on cities with populations over 10,000 to ensure robust statistical reliability:
- Rockville(Jobs)
- Annapolis(Jobs)
- Westminster(Jobs)
- Bel Air(Jobs)
- Gaithersburg(Jobs)
- Easton(Jobs)
- Frederick(Jobs)
- Hyattsville(Jobs)
- Laurel(Jobs)
- Greenbelt(Jobs)
For employers, a low unemployment rate indicates a thriving community and a strong workforce. Rockville stands out as the city in Maryland with the lowest unemployment rate, making it an attractive option for job seekers.
Continue reading to discover how we identified these cities and learn more about the robust job force in Maryland.
For additional resources on job opportunities in Maryland, check out:
How We Determined the Cities in Maryland with the Lowest Unemployment Rates
To compile our list of cities with the lowest unemployment rates, we focused on those with populations exceeding 10,000. This resulted in a selection of 22 cities in Maryland.
We analyzed unemployment rates from the latest American Community Survey, which provides valuable insights into the job market. This data reflects the potential job opportunities available for individuals considering intrastate, interstate, or intercity moves.
We ranked the cities based on unemployment rates, with the lowest rates earning higher ranks. In cases of ties, the larger city was given preference.
If your city doesn’t appear in the top ten, you can find a detailed chart at the end of this post. Otherwise, let’s explore how these top cities achieved their impressive job market standings.
1. Rockville
Population: 63,402
Unemployment Rate: 5.2%
Rockville leads our list with an impressive unemployment rate of 5.2%, demonstrating a robust job market and ample opportunities for residents.
Being the top city means residents enjoy a steady employment landscape.
2. Annapolis
Population: 38,599
Unemployment Rate: 5.3%
Annapolis, the state capital, comes in second with a commendable unemployment rate of 5.3%. Its vibrant culture and economy make it a desirable place to live and work.
3. Westminster
Population: 18,656
Unemployment Rate: 5.7%
Westminster secures the third spot with an unemployment rate of 5.7%, showcasing its strong employment opportunities and community support.
4. Bel Air
Population: 10,240
Unemployment Rate: 6.1%
Bel Air ranks fourth with a solid unemployment rate of 6.1%, making it an attractive option for job seekers looking for stability.
5. Gaithersburg
Population: 63,491
Unemployment Rate: 6.1%
Gaithersburg shares the fifth position with an unemployment rate of 6.1%. Its diverse economy and community resources contribute to a strong job market.
The residents here benefit from a thriving local economy.
6. Easton
Population: 16,541
Unemployment Rate: 6.2%
Easton ranks sixth with an unemployment rate of 6.2%, making it a viable option for those seeking job opportunities in a charming environment.
7. Frederick
Population: 66,646
Unemployment Rate: 6.6%
Frederick, with an unemployment rate of 6.6%, takes the seventh spot. Its growing economy and community initiatives support job seekers.
8. Hyattsville
Population: 18,049
Unemployment Rate: 6.7%
Hyattsville comes in eighth with an unemployment rate of 6.7%, showcasing its competitive job market and community resources.
9. Laurel
Population: 25,673
Unemployment Rate: 6.7%
Laurel finishes ninth with a strong unemployment rate of 6.7%, making it a desirable location for job seekers and families alike.
10. Greenbelt
Population: 23,612
Unemployment Rate: 6.8%
Greenbelt rounds out our top ten list with an unemployment rate of 6.8%. Despite being tenth, it remains a strong contender for job opportunities.
Summary: Unemployment Trends Across Maryland
In summary, these are the ten cities in Maryland with the lowest unemployment rates. They demonstrate not only strong job markets but also vibrant communities ready to welcome new residents.
If you’re considering a move to Maryland and want to prioritize employment opportunities, focus on the cities listed in our top ten.
For more insights into job markets across different states, visit zippia.com. Recent graduates looking to relocate can also find valuable information on which states attract new talent.
Here’s a quick look at the cities in Maryland with the highest unemployment rates:
- New Carrollton
- Baltimore
- Hagerstown
Detailed List of Cities with the Lowest Unemployment in Maryland
| City | Rank | Unemployment |
|---|---|---|
| Rockville | 1 | 5.2% |
| Annapolis | 2 | 5.3% |
| Westminster | 3 | 5.7% |
| Bel Air | 4 | 6.1% |
| Gaithersburg | 5 | 6.1% |
| Easton | 6 | 6.2% |
| Frederick | 7 | 6.6% |
| Hyattsville | 8 | 6.7% |
| Laurel | 9 | 6.7% |
| Greenbelt | 10 | 6.8% |
| Takoma Park | 11 | 7.4% |
| Bowie | 12 | 7.5% |
| College Park | 13 | 8.5% |
| Elkton | 14 | 9.0% |
| Aberdeen | 15 | 9.3% |
| Havre De Grace | 16 | 9.8% |
| Salisbury | 17 | 10.5% |
| Cumberland | 18 | 11.9% |
| Cambridge | 19 | 12.2% |
| Hagerstown | 20 | 12.4% |
| Baltimore | 21 | 13.1% |
| New Carrollton | 22 | 13.5% |
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
