The median household income in Maryland is $102,905. Saving 15% of that comes to $1,286 per month. Over 5 years in a high-yield savings account at 4.65%, that grows to $86,700, including interest.
A fully-funded 6-month emergency fund in Maryland requires $51,453 based on median income. At a 15% savings rate, that target takes 38 months to reach. This is the single most important financial buffer you can build.
If a home purchase is your goal, a 20% down payment on the Maryland median home of $433,112 requires $86,622. At 15% savings rate, that takes 60 months.
Maryland has a state income tax of 2%–6.5%. Your actual take-home monthly is lower than the gross figures above. Adjust your savings contribution to your net income for more accurate timelines.