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

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Newark

New Jersey
100

Baltimore is 16% cheaper than Newark.

$1,290/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,330/mo ↑ 3%
$59,623/yr ↑ 23%
Median Income
$48,416/yr ↓ 19%
$219,300 ↓ 35%
Home Value
$337,800 ↑ 54%
$1,333/mo ↓ 6%
Owner Costs
$1,419/mo ↑ 6%
577,193
Population
307,188

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
33.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

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

Median household income is $11,207/year higher in Baltimore. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $337,800 in Newark.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Newark — common questions

Is Baltimore or Newark cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Newark?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Newark it's $1,330/month — a difference of $40/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Newark?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $48,416 in Newark. Median household income is $11,207/year higher in Baltimore.
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 Newark?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Newark has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,330/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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