Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Baltimore is 31% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,290/mo ↓ 17%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 20%
$59,623/yr ↓ 26%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 36%
$219,300 ↓ 50%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 98%
$1,333/mo ↓ 19%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 23%
577,193
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
4.25%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.07%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $262/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $3,144/year.

Median household income is $21,466/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Ann Arbor slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Baltimore or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $262/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $21,466/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Michigan?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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