Maryland Cities by Population 2026

Maryland’s municipal framework includes 23 counties, Baltimore (which operates as an independent city), and over 150 incorporated cities and towns. Counties handle broader regional services, while cities and towns manage local governance, particularly in densely populated areas.

Baltimore, Maryland‘s largest urban center, operates independently of any county and has a mayor-council form of government. The mayor holds executive authority, overseeing departments such as public works, housing, and economic development, while the city council sets policies and budgets. This unique structure makes Baltimore a separate jurisdiction, managing its services without county intervention.

Montgomery County and Prince George's County, adjacent to Washington, D.C., are among Maryland‘s most populous and have robust local governance frameworks. Both use county executives and councils, where the county executive handles administrative tasks, and the council sets legislative priorities. These counties provide services like policing, public health, and transportation, especially in unincorporated areas like Silver Spring, where the county handles zoning and infrastructure.

In smaller towns, such as Rockville and Hagerstown, Maryland commonly employs a council-manager system. This structure provides policy direction through elected councils, while appointed managers handle administration, allowing these cities to focus on specific local services such as community policing, utilities, and recreation programs.

Maryland’s rural counties, such as Garrett County and Somerset County, play a critical role in managing unincorporated regions where county councils oversee law enforcement, road maintenance, and land use planning. These counties serve as the primary governance structure for residents who live outside of incorporated municipalities.

Regional councils in Maryland, such as the Baltimore Metropolitan Council, coordinate among counties on issues like transportation, land use, and economic development, ensuring cohesive planning that aligns with state and federal policies.