Maryland · Population 577,193 · Updated March 2026
How far your income goes in Baltimore
State-level tax rates that affect your costs
Baltimore is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 84 (where 100 equals the national median), Baltimore residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,290/month while earning a median household income of $59,623/year.
The median home value in Baltimore, MD is $219,300, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,333 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 26.0%, Baltimore falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.
Maryland has a moderate income tax rate of 5.75%. Combined with a 6.0% sales tax rate and 1.07% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Baltimore.
Common questions about living costs in Baltimore
Similar-sized cities to compare
Compare the cost of living in Baltimore, MD with 299 other major U.S. cities