Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Tampa, FL (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Tampa

Florida
113

Baltimore is 26% cheaper than Tampa.

$1,290/mo ↓ 18%
Median Rent
$1,567/mo ↑ 21%
$59,623/yr ↓ 16%
Median Income
$71,302/yr ↑ 20%
$219,300 ↓ 42%
Home Value
$375,300 ↑ 71%
$1,333/mo ↓ 14%
Owner Costs
$1,553/mo ↑ 17%
577,193
Population
393,389

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
1.07%
Property Tax
0.86%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Tampa, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 113 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $277/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $3,324/year.

Median household income is $11,679/year higher in Tampa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $375,300 in Tampa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Tampa — common questions

Is Baltimore or Tampa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 113 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Tampa?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Tampa it's $1,567/month — a difference of $277/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Tampa?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $71,302 in Tampa. Median household income is $11,679/year higher in Tampa.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Florida?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Tampa?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Tampa has a cost index of 113 with rent of $1,567/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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