Seattle, WA vs Baltimore, MD: 196 vs 84

$1,998/mo ↑ 55%

Median Rent

$1,290/mo ↓ 35%

$121,984/yr ↑ 105%

Median Income

$59,623/yr ↓ 51%

$912,100 ↑ 316%

Home Value

$219,300 ↓ 76%

$2,220/mo ↑ 67%

Owner Costs

$1,333/mo ↓ 40%

741,440

Population

577,193

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Baltimore, MD, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 84 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $708/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $8,496/year.

Median household income is $62,361/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $219,300 in Baltimore.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over Maryland's 5.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Baltimore — common questions

Is Seattle or Baltimore cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 196 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Seattle and Baltimore?

Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Baltimore it's $1,290/month — a difference of $708/month.

Which city has higher income, Seattle or Baltimore?

Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $59,623 in Baltimore. Median household income is $62,361/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between Washington and Maryland?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax.

Should I move to Seattle or Baltimore?

It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/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: Seattle, WA vs Baltimore, MD (2026)

Seattle

Baltimore

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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