Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Anchorage, AK (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Anchorage

Alaska
113

Baltimore is 26% cheaper than Anchorage.

$1,290/mo ↓ 11%
Median Rent
$1,453/mo ↑ 13%
$59,623/yr ↓ 39%
Median Income
$98,152/yr ↑ 65%
$219,300 ↓ 42%
Home Value
$375,900 ↑ 71%
$1,333/mo ↓ 21%
Owner Costs
$1,698/mo ↑ 27%
577,193
Population
289,069

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
0%
1.07%
Property Tax
1.04%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Anchorage, AK, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 113 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $163/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $1,956/year.

Median household income is $38,529/year higher in Anchorage. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $375,900 in Anchorage.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Anchorage — common questions

Is Baltimore or Anchorage cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 113 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Anchorage?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Anchorage it's $1,453/month — a difference of $163/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Anchorage?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $98,152 in Anchorage. Median household income is $38,529/year higher in Anchorage.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Alaska?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Alaska has 0% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 1.04% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Anchorage?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Anchorage has a cost index of 113 with rent of $1,453/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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