Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Tuscaloosa

Alabama
73

Baltimore is 15% more expensive than Tuscaloosa.

$1,290/mo ↑ 28%
Median Rent
$1,005/mo ↓ 22%
$59,623/yr ↑ 23%
Median Income
$48,536/yr ↓ 19%
$219,300 ↓ 7%
Home Value
$236,600 ↑ 8%
$1,333/mo ↑ 28%
Owner Costs
$1,038/mo ↓ 22%
577,193
Population
107,699

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
5.0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
1.07%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $285/month cheaper in Tuscaloosa, saving renters about $3,420/year.

Median household income is $11,087/year higher in Baltimore. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Tuscaloosa slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Baltimore or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tuscaloosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 73 compared to 84 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Tuscaloosa?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $285/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Tuscaloosa?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $11,087/year higher in Baltimore.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Alabama?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Tuscaloosa?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Tuscaloosa has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,005/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Baltimore details → View Tuscaloosa details →

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