Maryland Housing Crisis: Rising Costs Forcing Residents To Flee, New Poll Reveals

ANNAPOLIS, Md. –  Without prompting, registered voters in Maryland have named housing affordability as their number one concern for the first time in the history of Maryland housing polling, surpassing taxes and crime.

A new survey from the independent polling firm American Strategies also finds that 42% of younger renters are considering leaving the state due to the high cost of housing, signaling a major affordability crisis that could drive away Maryland’s future workforce and economic base.

In response to this growing issue, Maryland REALTORS®, the state’s largest trade association representing over 28,000 members, will host the State of Maryland Housing Press Conference on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, online at 1 PM. You can access the news conference from this link.

The press conference will bring together housing experts, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss the urgent need for solutions to improve housing affordability and keep Maryland residents from being priced out of their communities.

One potential solution with overwhelming public support is the expansion of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)—small, independent residential units located on existing properties. According to the survey, 81% of Marylanders favor making it easier to construct an ADU, recognizing it as a viable way to provide more affordable housing options across the state.

“When Marylanders say housing affordability is their number one concern, it’s time for serious action,” said Cheryl Abrams Davis, 2025 President, Maryland REALTORS®. “Too many people are being forced to leave the state they love because they simply can’t afford to live here. Expanding ADU access is a widely supported, common-sense solution that could help Maryland families find housing they can afford.”

However, housing advocates say local government policies continue to stand in the way of meaningful solutions. “The biggest impediments to adding more housing—including ADUs—are local governments,” said Chuck Kasky, Maryland REALTORS® CEO. “There are many reasons for this lack of action, including overly restrictive Adequate Public Facilities Ordinances and placating the NIMBYs. The status quo is hurting their constituents, their tax base, and Maryland as a whole.”

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover this critical discussion. For press inquiries or to RSVP, please contact Daniel Patrell, Senior Director for Strategic Communications, at dan.patrell@mdrealtor.org or call (443) 716-3577.

For more information and updates, visit www.mdrealtor.org or follow Maryland REALTORS® on social media.