The largest city and cultural center in Maryland, United States. It is often referred to as “Baltimore City” to distinguish it from Baltimore County. A the largest independent city in the United States, Baltimore does not belong to any particular county.

Baltimore is located in central Maryland along the Patapsco River. It is the largest seaport in the Mid-Atlantic. The city is the closest seaport to Midwestern markets on the East Coast.

According to 2010 Census data, the population in Baltimore is 620,961. This number reflects a marked decrease since the 1970’s. Baltimore’s metropolitan area is the 21st largest in the country with 2.7 million residents.

Baltimore was founded in 1729. The city’s Inner Harbor was once the second leading port of entry for immigrants to the U.S. Today, Baltimore is home to 72 designated historic districts that were traditionally occupied by ethnic groups.

Baltimore has transitioned from a manufacture-oriented economy to a service-oriented economy. The city maintains some of its industrial roots but primarily offers financial, business and health services to the Mid-Atlantic region.