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

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Torrance

California
218

Baltimore is 61% cheaper than Torrance.

$1,290/mo ↓ 42%
Median Rent
$2,214/mo ↑ 72%
$59,623/yr ↓ 47%
Median Income
$113,105/yr ↑ 90%
$219,300 ↓ 79%
Home Value
$1,036,600 ↑ 373%
$1,333/mo ↓ 42%
Owner Costs
$2,295/mo ↑ 72%
577,193
Population
143,499

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
13.3%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
7.25%
1.07%
Property Tax
0.71%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Torrance, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 218 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $924/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $11,088/year.

Median household income is $53,482/year higher in Torrance. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $1,036,600 in Torrance.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Torrance — common questions

Is Baltimore or Torrance cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 218 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Torrance?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Torrance it's $2,214/month — a difference of $924/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Torrance?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $113,105 in Torrance. Median household income is $53,482/year higher in Torrance.
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 Torrance?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Torrance has a cost index of 218 with rent of $2,214/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Baltimore details → View Torrance details →

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