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

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Oakland

California
195

Baltimore is 57% cheaper than Oakland.

$1,290/mo ↓ 33%
Median Rent
$1,917/mo ↑ 49%
$59,623/yr ↓ 39%
Median Income
$97,369/yr ↑ 63%
$219,300 ↓ 76%
Home Value
$924,700 ↑ 322%
$1,333/mo ↓ 38%
Owner Costs
$2,164/mo ↑ 62%
577,193
Population
438,072

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Oakland, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 195 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $627/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $7,524/year.

Median household income is $37,746/year higher in Oakland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $924,700 in Oakland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Oakland — common questions

Is Baltimore or Oakland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 195 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Oakland?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Oakland it's $1,917/month — a difference of $627/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Oakland?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $97,369 in Oakland. Median household income is $37,746/year higher in Oakland.
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 Oakland?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Oakland has a cost index of 195 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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