About the Counties / Overview

Of the 50 states, Maryland is among those with the fewest number of local governments. Local government is found in Maryland's 23 counties; 157 towns and cities (including Baltimore City); and special taxing districts, which are created by State, county and municipal governments.

For much of Maryland, local government typically is county government. Baltimore City, although a municipality, has been considered on a par with county jurisdictions since the adoption of the Maryland Constitution of 1851.

Twenty-four main local jurisdictions are found in Maryland. They include twenty-three counties and Baltimore City.