Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Allen, TX (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Allen

Texas
137

Baltimore is 39% cheaper than Allen.

$1,290/mo ↓ 31%
Median Rent
$1,877/mo ↑ 46%
$59,623/yr ↓ 54%
Median Income
$129,130/yr ↑ 117%
$219,300 ↓ 49%
Home Value
$429,900 ↑ 96%
$1,333/mo ↓ 36%
Owner Costs
$2,083/mo ↑ 56%
577,193
Population
107,684

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.07%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Allen, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $587/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $7,044/year.

Median household income is $69,507/year higher in Allen. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $429,900 in Allen.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Allen residents a significant tax advantage over Maryland's 5.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Allen — common questions

Is Baltimore or Allen cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 137 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Allen?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Allen it's $1,877/month — a difference of $587/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Allen?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $129,130 in Allen. Median household income is $69,507/year higher in Allen.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Texas?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Allen?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Allen has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,877/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Baltimore details → View Allen details →

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