Phoenix, AZ vs Baltimore, MD: 109 vs 84

$1,458/mo ↑ 13%

Median Rent

$1,290/mo ↓ 12%

$77,041/yr ↑ 29%

Median Income

$59,623/yr ↓ 23%

$381,900 ↑ 74%

Home Value

$219,300 ↓ 43%

$1,430/mo ↑ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,333/mo ↓ 7%

1,624,832

Population

577,193

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Baltimore, MD, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 84 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $168/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $2,016/year.

Median household income is $17,418/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $219,300 in Baltimore.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Phoenix slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Baltimore — common questions

Is Phoenix or Baltimore cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Baltimore?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Baltimore it's $1,290/month — a difference of $168/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Baltimore?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $59,623 in Baltimore. Median household income is $17,418/year higher in Phoenix.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Maryland?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Baltimore?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/mo, while Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with rent of $1,290/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Phoenix, AZ vs Baltimore, MD (2026)

Phoenix

Baltimore

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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