Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Tacoma, WA (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Tacoma

Washington
126

Baltimore is 33% cheaper than Tacoma.

$1,290/mo ↓ 19%
Median Rent
$1,597/mo ↑ 24%
$59,623/yr ↓ 29%
Median Income
$83,857/yr ↑ 41%
$219,300 ↓ 52%
Home Value
$454,600 ↑ 107%
$1,333/mo ↓ 24%
Owner Costs
$1,747/mo ↑ 31%
577,193
Population
220,482

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
1.07%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Tacoma, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $307/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $3,684/year.

Median household income is $24,234/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $454,600 in Tacoma.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Tacoma residents a significant tax advantage over Maryland's 5.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Tacoma — common questions

Is Baltimore or Tacoma cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 126 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Tacoma?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Tacoma it's $1,597/month — a difference of $307/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Tacoma?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $83,857 in Tacoma. Median household income is $24,234/year higher in Tacoma.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Washington?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Tacoma?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,597/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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