Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Thornton, CO (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Thornton

Colorado
138

Baltimore is 39% cheaper than Thornton.

$1,290/mo ↓ 29%
Median Rent
$1,810/mo ↑ 40%
$59,623/yr ↓ 41%
Median Income
$100,985/yr ↑ 69%
$219,300 ↓ 55%
Home Value
$482,200 ↑ 120%
$1,333/mo ↓ 30%
Owner Costs
$1,914/mo ↑ 44%
577,193
Population
142,878

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
4.4%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
2.9%
1.07%
Property Tax
0.51%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Thornton, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 138 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $520/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $6,240/year.

Median household income is $41,362/year higher in Thornton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $482,200 in Thornton.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Thornton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Thornton — common questions

Is Baltimore or Thornton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 138 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Thornton?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Thornton it's $1,810/month — a difference of $520/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Thornton?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $100,985 in Thornton. Median household income is $41,362/year higher in Thornton.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Colorado?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Thornton?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Thornton has a cost index of 138 with rent of $1,810/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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