Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Fort Collins, CO (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Fort Collins

Colorado
137

Baltimore is 39% cheaper than Fort Collins.

$1,290/mo ↓ 22%
Median Rent
$1,661/mo ↑ 29%
$59,623/yr ↓ 29%
Median Income
$83,598/yr ↑ 40%
$219,300 ↓ 60%
Home Value
$548,400 ↑ 150%
$1,333/mo ↓ 21%
Owner Costs
$1,692/mo ↑ 27%
577,193
Population
169,705

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
4.4%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
2.9%
1.07%
Property Tax
0.51%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Fort Collins, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $371/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $4,452/year.

Median household income is $23,975/year higher in Fort Collins. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $548,400 in Fort Collins.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Fort Collins slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Fort Collins — common questions

Is Baltimore or Fort Collins cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 137 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Fort Collins?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Fort Collins it's $1,661/month — a difference of $371/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Fort Collins?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $83,598 in Fort Collins. Median household income is $23,975/year higher in Fort Collins.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Colorado?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Fort Collins?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Fort Collins has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,661/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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