Baltimore, MD vs Costa Mesa, CA: 84 vs 228

$1,290/mo ↓ 46%

Median Rent

$2,395/mo ↑ 86%

$59,623/yr ↓ 46%

Median Income

$110,073/yr ↑ 85%

$219,300 ↓ 79%

Home Value

$1,054,700 ↑ 381%

$1,333/mo ↓ 46%

Owner Costs

$2,462/mo ↑ 85%

577,193

Population

110,538

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Costa Mesa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 228 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,105/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $13,260/year.

Median household income is $50,450/year higher in Costa Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $1,054,700 in Costa Mesa.

Maryland has a lower income tax rate, making Baltimore slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Costa Mesa — common questions

Is Baltimore or Costa Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 228 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Costa Mesa?

Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Costa Mesa it's $2,395/month — a difference of $1,105/month.

Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Costa Mesa?

Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $110,073 in Costa Mesa. Median household income is $50,450/year higher in Costa Mesa.

How do taxes compare between Maryland and California?

Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Baltimore or Costa Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Costa Mesa has a cost index of 228 with rent of $2,395/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Costa Mesa, CA (2026)

Baltimore

Costa Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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