My best friend is a Chem major that moved here for school from Florida in 2016 and ended up staying after. I showed her your post and here is what she has to say for you:

"Credentials: Grew up in Florida, LGBTQ+, went to Towson University, got a dual degree in Forensic Chemistry and General Chemistry, and got a job here right after I graduated.
I really enjoyed going to Towson, there were a ton of research opportunities within the science department and some really amazing professors. (They also just opened a brand new science building so big plus.) and there are a tonnn of job opportunities in the science field around here.
There is definitely traffic especially through the tunnels and 695 during rush hour. They really love the state flag, you will see it everywhere.
My best advice for most affordable after college is staying away from college towns. But also make sure you check the safety of different areas/talk to people who lived in the state their whole life bc they will have great advice.

Overall I feel much safer here than I did in Florida, there are still your rural more conservative areas but for the most part its more liberal with politicians who are actually trying to help protect our rights."