The job market in Baltimore is experiencing significant growth and development, particularly in the tech sector. By 2025, Baltimore's tech scene is expected to create 52,000 jobs and generate a $4.2 billion economic impact, driven by a focus on AI, biotechnology, cybersecurity, healthcare IT, and software development. The city is home to over 400 tech startups and benefits from strong partnerships with universities and research institutions.
Employment in Baltimore is robust, with tech salaries ranging from $91,000 for entry-level positions to over $110,000 for experienced roles. Cybersecurity roles are especially in demand, with security analysts earning between $120,000 to $141,000. Other high-paying roles include network administrators and QA engineers, with salaries up to $166,000. Data science, cloud engineering, and AI skills are also highly sought after.
As of December 2024, the unemployment rate in Baltimore stands at 3.90%, down from 4.50% the previous month and 2.90% the previous year. This rate is lower than the long-term average and reflects a strong labor market. Maryland as a whole added 38,400 jobs in 2024, with a 1.4% employment growth rate, and maintains one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation at 3.1%.
Major industries in Baltimore include financial and professional services, health and bioscience technology, culture and tourism, information and creative services, logistics, and advanced manufacturing. Key employers include prestigious universities, hospital systems, and global retail brands. The healthcare sector is particularly strong, with significant contributions from institutions like Johns Hopkins.
Growing sectors include cybersecurity, with a projected 33% growth by 2025, and other tech fields. The DMV region, including Baltimore, has a high demand for cyber professionals, with over 16,000 open positions in Baltimore County alone. Recent developments include increased investments in tech training programs and educational initiatives from the University of Maryland.
Commuting in Baltimore is facilitated by easy access to highways, ports, rail, and air travel, making it an attractive location for both residents and employers. Government initiatives, such as the designation of Baltimore as a federal Tech Hub focused on AI and biotechnology, further support the city's tech ecosystem.
Seasonal patterns show some fluctuation in unemployment rates, but overall, the job market remains stable. The market evolution is marked by a shift towards more tech-oriented and innovative industries, supported by federal investments and educational institutions.
Key findings include a booming tech sector, low unemployment rates, and high demand for skilled professionals in cybersecurity, data science, and AI. Here are a few current job openings: Security Analyst with salaries starting around $102,000, Network Administrator with salaries ranging from $92,000 to $108,000, and QA Engineer with salaries between $146,000 to $166,000.