How Maryland Border Counties Support the Pennsylvania Economy

Maryland’s border counties strengthen Pennsylvania’s economy through shared workforce corridors, transportation routes, healthcare access, tourism flow, logistics networks, and regional business partnerships.

A Connected Mid-Atlantic Border Economy

Pennsylvania and Maryland share a highly active border economy shaped by commuter movement, freight corridors, healthcare networks, and regional tourism. Businesses and residents routinely travel across the state line for work, services, shopping, and recreation—creating a shared market that supports growth on both sides.

Maryland’s border counties contribute to Pennsylvania by strengthening labor markets, expanding access to major transportation routes, supporting logistics and distribution, and fueling cross-border tourism and commerce.

Key Maryland Border Counties Connected to Pennsylvania

Cecil County, MD

  • Commuter and logistics connections into southeastern Pennsylvania.
  • Freight and distribution movement along key highway corridors.
  • Cross-border retail and service activity supporting PA markets.

Harford County, MD

  • Workforce and commercial ties to York and Lancaster regions.
  • Regional consumer traffic supporting Pennsylvania businesses.
  • Healthcare, education, and service exchange across the border.

Washington County, MD

  • Strong connections into Franklin County, PA and the I-81 corridor.
  • Freight movement, warehousing, and logistics support for PA supply chains.
  • Tourism and outdoor recreation flow supporting border communities.

These counties help create a steady exchange of workers, visitors, and commercial activity that supports Pennsylvania’s border economy.

Workforce Mobility and Cross-Border Commuting

Maryland’s border counties support Pennsylvania’s labor markets by contributing workers and expanding the region’s hiring flexibility. Cross-border commuting strengthens key Pennsylvania industries such as:

  • Healthcare and hospital systems
  • Logistics, distribution, and warehousing
  • Manufacturing and skilled trades
  • Education, government, and professional services

This shared workforce supports business stability and helps Pennsylvania employers fill critical roles.

Transportation Corridors, Logistics, and Supply Chains

Maryland strengthens Pennsylvania’s economy through major transportation and freight corridors that support cross-border commerce. Key contributions include:

  • I-81 corridor influence supporting freight movement into south-central Pennsylvania.
  • I-83 and north–south routes connecting Maryland markets to Pennsylvania distribution networks.
  • Warehousing and logistics systems that serve Pennsylvania businesses and consumers.
  • Cross-border supplier relationships that keep regional operations moving efficiently.

Healthcare Access, Tourism, and Regional Services

Maryland’s proximity expands service options and economic activity for Pennsylvania border communities. This includes:

  • Patients and healthcare professionals traveling across state lines for specialized services.
  • Tourism flow between Pennsylvania destinations and Maryland attractions.
  • Cross-border retail, hospitality, and dining activity supporting local businesses.
  • Regional service exchange that strengthens both states’ communities.

These shared services increase economic circulation and help border regions thrive.

Business Collaboration and Regional Partnerships

Chambers, economic development groups, and business networks across Maryland and Pennsylvania often collaborate to support:

  • Regional workforce development and hiring pipelines
  • Small business visibility and cross-state referrals
  • Tourism promotion and destination marketing
  • Coordinated business growth strategies across the border

These partnerships strengthen Pennsylvania’s economy by expanding opportunity and improving regional competitiveness.

A Stronger Pennsylvania Through Maryland Border Partnerships

Maryland’s border counties contribute workforce strength, transportation access, logistics support, and cross-border services that directly support Pennsylvania’s economy. Together, these connections create a resilient Mid-Atlantic border economy built on shared opportunity and regional collaboration.