Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Olathe, KS (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Olathe

Kansas
104

Baltimore is 19% cheaper than Olathe.

$1,290/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,314/mo ↑ 2%
$59,623/yr ↓ 47%
Median Income
$112,232/yr ↑ 88%
$219,300 ↓ 36%
Home Value
$340,600 ↑ 55%
$1,333/mo ↓ 20%
Owner Costs
$1,662/mo ↑ 25%
577,193
Population
143,720

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
5.7%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
1.07%
Property Tax
1.41%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
14.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Olathe, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 104 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $52,609/year higher in Olathe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $340,600 in Olathe.

Kansas has a lower income tax rate, making Olathe slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Olathe — common questions

Is Baltimore or Olathe cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 104 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Olathe?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Olathe it's $1,314/month — a difference of $24/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Olathe?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $112,232 in Olathe. Median household income is $52,609/year higher in Olathe.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Kansas?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Olathe?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Olathe has a cost index of 104 with rent of $1,314/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Baltimore details → View Olathe details →

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