With Americans donating over $592 billion per year to charity, the personal-finance company WalletHub today released its report on the Most Charitable States for 2026, with Maryland coming in ranked third overall and first in percent of population who donated money to a cause.
Maryland has once again proven it’s full of heart, ranking as the third-most charitable state in the country. More than 16% of Maryland taxpayers donate to charity, the highest percentage of any state. On average, Marylanders give about 2% of their income, placing us seventh in the nation for generosity.
But it’s not just about money. Maryland also ranks sixth when it comes to residents who collect, make, or distribute clothing for those in needx and the state provides shelter for about 83% of its homeless population, one of the best rates in the country. Our state is home to a strong network of top-rated charities, too, eighth-highest per capita, with organizations praised by their clients, volunteers, and communities alike.
Even online, Marylanders show their giving spirit. We’re among the top 15 states searching for terms like “charity,” “volunteer,” and “non-profit organizations.”
Generosity in Maryland (1=Most Charitable; 25=Avg.):
- Overall Rank: 3rd
- 10th – Charities per Capita
- 7th – % of Donated Income
- 21st – % of Population Who Donated Time
- 1st – % of Population Who Donated Money
- 24th – % of Population Collecting/Distributing Food
- 19th – Volunteer Rate
- 20th – Volunteer Hours per Capita
