San Diego, CA vs Baltimore, MD: 197 vs 84

$2,223/mo ↑ 72%

Median Rent

$1,290/mo ↓ 42%

$104,321/yr ↑ 75%

Median Income

$59,623/yr ↓ 43%

$848,500 ↑ 287%

Home Value

$219,300 ↓ 74%

$2,308/mo ↑ 73%

Owner Costs

$1,333/mo ↓ 42%

1,385,061

Population

577,193

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Baltimore, MD, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 84 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $933/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $11,196/year.

Median household income is $44,698/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $219,300 in Baltimore.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Baltimore — common questions

Is San Diego or Baltimore cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Baltimore?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Baltimore it's $1,290/month — a difference of $933/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Baltimore?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $59,623 in Baltimore. Median household income is $44,698/year higher in San Diego.

How do taxes compare between California and Maryland?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax.

Should I move to San Diego or Baltimore?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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: San Diego, CA vs Baltimore, MD (2026)

San Diego

Baltimore

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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