Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Allentown, PA (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Allentown

Pennsylvania
79

Baltimore is 6% more expensive than Allentown.

$1,290/mo ↑ 2%
Median Rent
$1,269/mo ↓ 2%
$59,623/yr ↑ 12%
Median Income
$53,403/yr ↓ 10%
$219,300 ↑ 16%
Home Value
$188,900 ↓ 14%
$1,333/mo ↑ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,243/mo ↓ 7%
577,193
Population
125,320

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
3.07%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.07%
Property Tax
1.49%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Allentown, PA, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $6,220/year higher in Baltimore. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $188,900 in Allentown.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Allentown slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Allentown — common questions

Is Baltimore or Allentown cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Allentown is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 84 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Allentown?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Allentown it's $1,269/month — a difference of $21/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Allentown?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $53,403 in Allentown. Median household income is $6,220/year higher in Baltimore.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Pennsylvania?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Allentown?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Allentown has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,269/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Baltimore details → View Allentown details →

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