Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Elizabeth, NJ (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Elizabeth

New Jersey
112

Baltimore is 25% cheaper than Elizabeth.

$1,290/mo ↓ 12%
Median Rent
$1,463/mo ↑ 13%
$59,623/yr ↓ 7%
Median Income
$63,874/yr ↑ 7%
$219,300 ↓ 44%
Home Value
$393,500 ↑ 79%
$1,333/mo ↓ 14%
Owner Costs
$1,543/mo ↑ 16%
577,193
Population
135,887

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
10.75%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.625%
1.07%
Property Tax
2.23%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
27.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Elizabeth, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $173/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $2,076/year.

Median household income is $4,251/year higher in Elizabeth. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $393,500 in Elizabeth.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Elizabeth — common questions

Is Baltimore or Elizabeth cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 112 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Elizabeth?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Elizabeth it's $1,463/month — a difference of $173/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Elizabeth?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $63,874 in Elizabeth. Median household income is $4,251/year higher in Elizabeth.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and New Jersey?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Elizabeth?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Elizabeth has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,463/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Baltimore details → View Elizabeth details →

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