If you searched for "what is the capital of Baltimore", here's the short answer:
- Baltimore is a US city, not a US state. Cities don't have "capitals" — only states (and countries) do.
- Baltimore is in the state of Maryland.
- The capital of Maryland is Annapolis, not Baltimore.
Maryland essentials
State capital: Annapolis
USPS code: MD
Largest city: Baltimore
Region: Northeast
Year admitted to the Union: 1788
Why people ask "capital of Baltimore"
It is a common confusion — and a fair one. Of the 50 US states, only 17 have their capital be the largest city of the state. Maryland is not one of them: the capital (Annapolis) is actually smaller than Baltimore. Famous cities like Baltimore dominate the news and the cultural imagination, so people naturally assume they must be capitals. They are not.
The 5 classic "trap" examples (where the famous city is not the capital):
- New York → capital is Albany, not NYC.
- California → capital is Sacramento, not LA or San Francisco.
- Texas → capital is Austin, not Houston or Dallas.
- Illinois → capital is Springfield, not Chicago.
- Florida → capital is Tallahassee, not Miami or Orlando.
Memorize all 50 capitals — free
Statedoku's daily puzzle is built around the 50 states + capitals. Play one round per day, learn one state.
See the 50-capital cheat sheet →FAQ
What is the capital of Baltimore?
Baltimore is a city, not a state, so it has no capital. Baltimore is in Maryland, whose capital is Annapolis.
Is Baltimore the capital of Maryland?
No. The capital of Maryland is Annapolis.
What state is Baltimore in?
Baltimore is in Maryland (USPS: MD).
Is Annapolis bigger than Baltimore?
No. Baltimore is the largest city in Maryland; Annapolis is the capital but smaller in population.