Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Miami, FL (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Miami

Florida
129

Baltimore is 35% cheaper than Miami.

$1,290/mo ↓ 22%
Median Rent
$1,657/mo ↑ 28%
$59,623/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$59,390/yr ≈ Same
$219,300 ↓ 54%
Home Value
$475,200 ↑ 117%
$1,333/mo ↓ 20%
Owner Costs
$1,666/mo ↑ 25%
577,193
Population
446,663

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.07%
Property Tax
0.86%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
33.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Miami, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 129 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $367/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $4,404/year.

Median household income is $233/year higher in Baltimore. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $475,200 in Miami.

Florida has no state income tax, giving Miami residents a significant tax advantage over Maryland's 5.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Miami — common questions

Is Baltimore or Miami cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 129 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Miami?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Miami it's $1,657/month — a difference of $367/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Miami?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $59,390 in Miami. Median household income is $233/year higher in Baltimore.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Florida?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Miami?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Miami has a cost index of 129 with rent of $1,657/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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