BALTIMORE, MD—As the nation marks the beginning of Women’s History Month, a new study by personal-finance outlet WalletHub has ranked Maryland as the 5th best state for women in 2026.
The comprehensive report analyzed all 50 states and the District of Columbia across 25 key metrics, ranging from economic opportunity and educational attainment to health care access and personal safety. Maryland’s high placement is attributed to its robust preventive health care systems and a strong economic foundation for female entrepreneurs and workers.
Economic and Health Highlights
Maryland stood out significantly in several categories, particularly in terms of health and financial security. The state earned the 3rd spot nationwide for Women’s Preventive Health Care, reflecting high rates of clinical screenings and accessible wellness services.
Economically, Maryland continues to be a leader for female professionals. It ranked 5th for the lowest share of women living in poverty and 8th for the share of women-owned businesses, suggesting a supportive environment for female-led entrepreneurship.
Maryland’s Performance at a Glance
Room for Growth
Despite the high overall ranking, the study identified areas where the state could improve. Maryland ranked 26th in High School Graduation Rates for Women, placing it near the middle of the pack nationally. Additionally, it ranked 24th for the Quality of Women’s Hospitals, trailing several other top-tier states like Massachusetts and Minnesota.
National Context
Massachusetts claimed the #1 overall spot for the second consecutive year, followed by the District of Columbia, Maine, and Minnesota. On the opposite end of the spectrum, states such as Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Arkansas were ranked as the most challenging environments for women…