Overview
- The UMBC Institute of Politics released Part 1 of its statewide survey Tuesday, and 33% named cost of living as the most important issue facing Maryland.
- Large shares said key expenses are less affordable than a year ago, including groceries at 72%, gasoline at 71%, electricity at 69%, and housing at 65%.
- Reactions to recent electric bills show 35% report high or rising costs, 13% feel angry, 13% feel worried, and 17% call them manageable.
- AAA-Mid Atlantic said Monday that Maryland’s average gas price reached $4 a gallon for the first time since August 2022, and prices have climbed about $1.06 since late-February U.S. strikes on Iran.
- Many residents say they are very or extremely worried about medical costs at 50% and saving enough for retirement at 46%, signaling strain on household budgets.