Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Baltimore is 10% cheaper than Rochester.

$1,290/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ↑ 2%
$59,623/yr ↓ 32%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 47%
$219,300 ↓ 24%
Home Value
$287,500 ↑ 31%
$1,333/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ≈ Same
577,193
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
9.85%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
1.07%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $28,144/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Rochester — common questions

Is Baltimore or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 93 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Rochester?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $26/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Rochester?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $28,144/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Minnesota?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 93 with rent of $1,316/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Baltimore details → View Rochester details →

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