Cost of Living: Washington, DC vs Baltimore, MD 2026

$1,900/mo ↑ 47%

Median Rent

$1,290/mo ↓ 32%

$106,287/yr ↑ 78%

Median Income

$59,623/yr ↓ 44%

$724,600 ↑ 230%

Home Value

$219,300 ↓ 70%

$2,103/mo ↑ 58%

Owner Costs

$1,333/mo ↓ 37%

672,079

Population

577,193

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD, the overall cost of living indices are 171 and 84 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $610/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $7,320/year.

Median household income is $46,664/year higher in Washington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Washington is $724,600 compared to $219,300 in Baltimore.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Washington vs Baltimore — common questions

Is Washington or Baltimore cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 171 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Washington and Baltimore?

Median rent in Washington is $1,900/month and in Baltimore it's $1,290/month — a difference of $610/month.

Which city has higher income, Washington or Baltimore?

Median household income is $106,287 in Washington and $59,623 in Baltimore. Median household income is $46,664/year higher in Washington.

How do taxes compare between District of Columbia and Maryland?

District of Columbia has 10.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.56% property tax. Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax.

Should I move to Washington or Baltimore?

It depends on your priorities. Washington has a cost index of 171 with median rent of $1,900/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: Washington, DC vs Baltimore, MD (2026)

Washington

Baltimore

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions