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

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Fresno

California
101

Baltimore is 17% cheaper than Fresno.

$1,290/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,324/mo ↑ 3%
$59,623/yr ↓ 11%
Median Income
$66,804/yr ↑ 12%
$219,300 ↓ 37%
Home Value
$348,500 ↑ 59%
$1,333/mo ↓ 4%
Owner Costs
$1,391/mo ↑ 4%
577,193
Population
543,615

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
13.3%
6.0%
Sales Tax
7.25%
1.07%
Property Tax
0.71%

Affordability

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

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Fresno, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 101 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $7,181/year higher in Fresno. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $348,500 in Fresno.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Fresno — common questions

Is Baltimore or Fresno cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 101 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Fresno?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Fresno it's $1,324/month — a difference of $34/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Fresno?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $66,804 in Fresno. Median household income is $7,181/year higher in Fresno.
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 Fresno?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Fresno has a cost index of 101 with rent of $1,324/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Baltimore details → View Fresno details →