Baltimore, MD vs Pasadena, CA: 84 vs 220

$1,290/mo ↓ 42%

Median Rent

$2,218/mo ↑ 72%

$59,623/yr ↓ 43%

Median Income

$103,778/yr ↑ 74%

$219,300 ↓ 79%

Home Value

$1,045,000 ↑ 377%

$1,333/mo ↓ 43%

Owner Costs

$2,340/mo ↑ 76%

577,193

Population

136,462

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Pasadena, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 220 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $928/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $11,136/year.

Median household income is $44,155/year higher in Pasadena. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $1,045,000 in Pasadena.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Pasadena — common questions

Is Baltimore or Pasadena cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 220 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Pasadena?

Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Pasadena it's $2,218/month — a difference of $928/month.

Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Pasadena?

Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $103,778 in Pasadena. Median household income is $44,155/year higher in Pasadena.

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 Pasadena?

It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Pasadena has a cost index of 220 with rent of $2,218/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Baltimore

Pasadena

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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