Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Scottsdale, AZ (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Scottsdale

Arizona
165

Baltimore is 49% cheaper than Scottsdale.

$1,290/mo ↓ 32%
Median Rent
$1,910/mo ↑ 48%
$59,623/yr ↓ 44%
Median Income
$107,372/yr ↑ 80%
$219,300 ↓ 69%
Home Value
$709,900 ↑ 224%
$1,333/mo ↓ 27%
Owner Costs
$1,824/mo ↑ 37%
577,193
Population
242,169

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
2.5%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
5.6%
1.07%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Scottsdale, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 165 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $620/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $7,440/year.

Median household income is $47,749/year higher in Scottsdale. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $709,900 in Scottsdale.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Scottsdale slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Scottsdale — common questions

Is Baltimore or Scottsdale cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 165 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Scottsdale?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Scottsdale it's $1,910/month — a difference of $620/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Scottsdale?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $107,372 in Scottsdale. Median household income is $47,749/year higher in Scottsdale.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Arizona?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Scottsdale?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Scottsdale has a cost index of 165 with rent of $1,910/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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More Comparisons

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