St. Mary’s County, located on the southern tip of Maryland’s Western Shore, is a charming and serene location that offers a unique combination of professional opportunities, family-friendly living, and an abundance of recreational activities. For physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs) looking for a fulfilling career, a balanced lifestyle, and a welcoming community, St. Mary’s County offers a compelling choice. Whether you’re considering relocating or seeking a new place to practice medicine, this region has much to offer for both professional and personal growth.

Here’s why physicians and APPs should consider living and practicing in St. Mary’s County, MD.

A Thriving Healthcare Community & Career Opportunities

St. Mary’s County is home to a dynamic and growing healthcare sector, with increasing demand for skilled physicians and advanced practice providers across various specialties. The county offers a robust healthcare infrastructure, including several well-established medical facilities, community health centers, and primary care practices. The region is rapidly developing, which translates to opportunities for career advancement and leadership roles in the medical field.

• MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital: A pivotal healthcare provider in the region, MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital offers top-quality care and attracts professionals from across the country. The hospital provides a wide range of services, from emergency care to surgical procedures, and is committed to innovation and community health. Physicians can look forward to working in an environment that values cutting-edge care and collaboration. Additionally, MedStar is a $9 billion health network with 10 hospitals and 300 community-based clinics.
• Expanding Medical Specialties: St. Mary’s County’s healthcare needs are expanding in response to population growth. There is a demand for specialists in cardiology, orthopedics, family medicine, pediatrics, psychiatry, and more. Physicians looking to start their practice or join an existing one will find plenty of opportunities to grow their careers in a supportive, patient-centered environment.
• Captured Market: Physicians benefit from a captured market in St. Mary’s County, with the second-closest hospital located 45 minutes away. This setup means less competition, higher patient volumes, and more opportunities for successful practices.
• Networking & Collaboration: Physicians in St. Mary’s County work in close-knit medical communities where relationships with colleagues are prioritized. The collaborative nature of the region’s medical field promotes teamwork, professional development, and mutual support. Furthermore, physicians often enjoy a stronger connection with their patients, enabling them to make a lasting impact in the community.

MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital: A Leading Healthcare Provider

MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital, part of the MedStar Health network, serves as a cornerstone of healthcare in the region. The hospital’s mission to provide excellent, compassionate care aligns with the values of physicians seeking to make a meaningful difference in their patients’ lives. Here are a few reasons why MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital stands out:

• Comprehensive Care: MedStar St. Mary’s offers a wide array of services, including emergency care, surgery, maternity services, and cardiology. This diversity of specialties means physicians have opportunities to engage in a variety of medical fields while benefiting from a hospital infrastructure that supports multidisciplinary collaboration.
• Innovation & Support: As part of the MedStar Health network, physicians at St. Mary’s Hospital have access to state-of-the-art medical technologies, research advancements, and ongoing professional training. This enables physicians to stay ahead of medical trends and provide the highest level of care to their patients.
• Patient-Centered Care: The hospital’s commitment to patient care is reflected in its welcoming environment and approach to treating individuals as partners in their health journey. Physicians are encouraged to build lasting relationships with patients, which leads to more rewarding career experiences and better patient outcomes.

Competitive Compensation & Work-Life Balance

St. Mary’s County offers a highly competitive compensation package for physicians, along with an exceptional work-life balance. Compared to urban areas like Baltimore or Washington, D.C., the cost of living in St. Mary’s County is relatively low, which means your income goes further while enjoying a comfortable standard of living.

• Affordable Housing: Housing in St. Mary’s County is approximately 35% less expensive than in Washington, D.C. With the county’s picturesque views and waterfront properties, physicians can find spacious homes that would be much more expensive in major cities.
• Competitive Salaries & Benefits: Physicians in St. Mary’s County enjoy attractive salaries and benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. The lower patient volumes also mean that physicians are not overwhelmed with work, allowing them to enjoy a better work-life balance.
• Flexible Schedules: Compared to the demands of urban hospitals, physicians in St. Mary’s County benefit from more manageable workloads and better schedule flexibility. This means more time for family, personal activities, and pursuing hobbies outside of medicine.

A Family-Friendly, Diverse Community with Excellent Schools

St. Mary’s County is not only great for physicians but also for their families. The area offers a family-friendly atmosphere, safe neighborhoods, and excellent school options. Its cultural diversity enhances the community experience, providing rich perspectives and welcoming environments for all.

• Top-Rated Public & Private Schools: The county is home to some of the best public and private schools in the region, providing quality education from elementary school through high school. With a range of extracurricular activities, sports teams, and community involvement opportunities, children in St. Mary’s County are given the tools to succeed academically and socially.
• Safe Neighborhoods: The county is known for its low crime rate and tight-knit communities, offering a peaceful environment for families. Parents can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing their children are growing up in a safe, supportive environment.
• Family-Centered Activities: From parks and nature trails to museums and community events, St. Mary’s County offers a wide variety of family-friendly activities. The county hosts regular festivals, farmers’ markets, and holiday celebrations, making it easy to enjoy quality time together.

Outdoor Adventures & Waterfront Living

St. Mary’s County offers one of the most beautiful and unique natural landscapes on the East Coast, where the Potomac River, Patuxent River, and Chesapeake Bay all converge. This meeting point creates stunning waterfront views and endless opportunities for outdoor activities. The area’s tranquil, scenic setting makes it a haven for those who enjoy life by the water.

The region is surrounded by over 400 miles of pristine shoreline, offering endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, its proximity to national forests provides residents with even more options for recreation and relaxation.

• Waterfront Living: With access to scenic waterfront properties, physicians and their families can enjoy life by the water, whether it’s watching the sunrise over the river or taking a leisurely boat ride on the Chesapeake Bay. This tranquil setting promotes relaxation and a healthier lifestyle.
• Boating, Fishing, & Kayaking: The county’s location makes it an ideal destination for water sports and outdoor exploration. Whether you enjoy fishing, sailing, or kayaking, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors.
• Hiking & Biking Trails: In addition to water activities, St. Mary’s County also boasts many parks and hiking trails for nature lovers. Physicians and their families can enjoy the beauty of Maryland’s forests, wetlands, and wildlife while staying active and healthy.

A Rich History & Vibrant Cultural Scene

St. Mary’s County is steeped in history and rich cultural traditions. The county offers a unique blend of historic landmarks, museums, festivals, and a lively arts scene that enriches the lives of residents and visitors alike.

• Historic Sites & Landmarks: St. Mary’s City, the first capital of Maryland, is one of the most historically significant sites in the county. The area features colonial-era landmarks, archaeological sites, and the Maryland Dove, a recreation of a 17th-century tall ship. This historical richness adds depth and character to the region, offering residents a chance to connect with the past.
• Cultural Festivals: The county hosts several annual festivals and events, including the Patuxent River Appreciation Day, art exhibitions, and music performances. These events bring the community together and offer opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.
• Local Arts Scene: The local arts community is vibrant, with art galleries, theaters, and music performances available year-round. Physicians and their families can enjoy the creative expressions of local artists and participate in a thriving cultural scene.

Proximity to Major Metropolitan Areas

While St. Mary’s County offers the charm and peace of a rural setting, it is also well-connected to major metropolitan areas. Physicians in St. Mary’s County can easily access Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Annapolis, making it a convenient location for weekend getaways and professional networking.

• Easy Access to Urban Centers: The county’s location along major highways, such as Route 5 and Route 301, provides convenient access to Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Annapolis. Physicians can enjoy the slower pace of life in St. Mary’s County while still having easy access to the cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities of nearby cities.
• Weekend Getaways: The proximity to the nation’s capital and other major cities makes it easy for families to take short trips for cultural events, entertainment, and shopping. Whether it’s exploring the Smithsonian museums or catching a show in the heart of D.C., St. Mary’s County residents can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Why St. Mary’s County is a Smart Move for Physicians

Quote from Don DeLany, Recruiter at Pacific Companies: “When I first came to St. Mary’s County, I was pleasantly surprised. I was told it was rural. Well, it is anything but rural. They have almost everything you would want in a suburban location plus they are surrounded by many miles of shoreline. The only reason they were considered rural was the 55-mile distance from DC. They are growing rapidly as it is now the fastest growing and richest county in the state. But it was the people that set the community apart; open, friendly, and sincere. I am a native Californian, but if I were going to move to the East Coast, it would be to this hidden gem.”

St. Mary’s County offers physicians and their families the perfect combination of career opportunities, an outstanding quality of life, and a strong sense of community. The thriving healthcare sector, low cost of living, excellent schools, abundant outdoor activities, and proximity to major metropolitan areas make it an ideal place to practice medicine and raise a family. With the support of MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital and the community’s commitment to healthcare excellence, physicians can look forward to a fulfilling and balanced career in St. Mary’s County.

If you’re considering relocating or expanding your career as a physician or APP, St. Mary’s County should be at the top of your list. Visit the area, explore the opportunities, and see firsthand why it’s a fantastic place to call home.

Works Cited

St. Mary’s County Government. St. Mary’s County, MD. St. Mary’s County Government, 2025, https://www.stmaryscountymd.gov

Visit St. Mary’s MD. Discover St. Mary’s County. St. Mary’s County Tourism, 2025, https://www.visitstmarysmd.com

Leonardtown. Welcome to Leonardtown, MD. Leonardtown Business Association, 2025, https://leonardtown.somd.com

Visit Leonardtown MD. Visit Leonardtown, MD. Visit Leonardtown, 2025, https://www.visitleonardtownmd.com

MedStar Health. MedStar St. Mary’s Hospital. MedStar Health, 2025, https://www.medstarhealth.org/locations/medstar-st-marys-hospital