Transplant from Los Angeles to Maryland here. We just bought our house in Woodlawn. It is suburban, but a short drive to Baltimore City. (20-30min depending on traffic.) Catonsville is also next door. (Another great place.) The best I can compare our general area here, is what Pasadena and Orange County might have been in CA. I highly recommend sticking to a suburb and driving out to “fun” spots. I’m a stay at home mom and plan to work from home eventually. The city will not offer the space and peace your wife will need. Being a young couple in the suburbs doesn’t have to be isolating. Once you’re settled, you can look up local meet ups. I’m also sure you’ll end up making friends amongst your coworkers. Good luck with the house hunt! :)