Baltimore, MD vs Santa Rosa, CA: 84 vs 172

$1,290/mo ↓ 38%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 62%

$59,623/yr ↓ 39%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 63%

$219,300 ↓ 68%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 212%

$1,333/mo ↓ 37%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 60%

577,193

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $794/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $9,528/year.

Median household income is $37,787/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Baltimore or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $794/month.

Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $37,787/year higher in Santa Rosa.

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 Santa Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Baltimore

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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