Want Maryland’s coastal living with access to major cities without Bethesda’s high prices? Don’t give up on the dream. You can afford a house in the Free State if you know where to look.
Your perfect home could be a family-friendly house in Salisbury or a starter home in Cambridge, Maryland’s tourism hub. If you’re retiring, look at homes for sale in Hagerstown, to enjoy a low-cost coastal lifestyle, with median home prices under $280,000.
After assessing hundreds of cities, we’ve ranked the 10 most affordable places to live in Maryland to help you find a home that fits your budget.
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Key Takeaways
- Cumberland is the most affordable city: Cumberland’s cost of living is 23% lower than the state average. With a median home price of $130,000, it is the cheapest place to live in Maryland.
- Baltimore is the best city for young professionals: With strong healthcare, tech, government, and education sectors, Baltimore is a prime spot to build a career.
- For families, Bel Air South is a great choice: With excellent suburban neighborhoods, low crime rate, and highly rated schools, Bel Air South is an ideal place to raise a family on a budget.
- Retirees should consider Easton: Retirees can enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle, with homes typically ranging from $325,000 to $529,900.
- Don’t forget Maryland’s “Homeowners Insurance”: IA $200,000 home in Maryland typically adds $1,500–$4,500/year in insurance + taxes, depending on location.
Cheapest Places to Live in Maryland in 2026
| City | Median Home Value | Median House Rent | Cost of living Compared to State Average | Affordability Score (out of 10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cumberland | $130,000 | $964 | 23% ⬇️ | 8.7 |
| 2. Frostburg | $295,000 | $950 | 24% ⬇️ | 8.1 |
| 3. Dundalk | $228,000 | $1,305 | 1% ⬇️ | 7.6 |
| 4. Cambridge | $275,000 | $1,381 | 11% ⬇️ | 7.3 |
| 5. Baltimore | $240,000 | $1,644 | 13% ⬇️ | 7.2 |
| 6. Hagerstown | $280,000 | $1,508 | 11% ⬇️ | 7 |
| 7. Salisbury | $278,000 | $1,639 | 11% ⬇️ | 6.8 |
| 8. Aberdeen | $325,000 | $1,736 | 4% ⬇️ | 6 |
| 9. Easton | $423,990 | $1,391 | 5% ⬇️ | 5.8 |
| 10. Bel Air South | $380,000 | $1,745 | 3% ⬇️ | 5.5 |
How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in Maryland
To identify the cheap places to live in Maryland, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.
Data Sources:
- Median Home Prices: We used Houzeo’s Maryland Housing Market report and double-checked the numbers with the National Center for Healthy Housing (Columbia, MD)
- Median Rent: We got the rent data from C2ER, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it’s accurate.
- Overall Cost of Living: We covered 6 big spending categories— housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods— from C2ER and Houzeo’s Cost of Living in Maryland Calculator. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.
We studied housing data from 2022 to 2025 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city’s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.
All our information is up to date as of 2025, ensuring you receive the most current insights.
Affordability Scoring:
We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:
- Median Home Price (40%)
- Median Rent (35%)
- Cost of Living (25%)
This way, we can clearly show which Maryland cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our score breakdown to see how each city was ranked.
Image credits: All blog images are sourced from Freepik.
10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Maryland
The city offers a quiet, small-town lifestyle with access to parks like Rocky Gap State Park featuring trails and a lake, plus the scenic C&O Canal towpath for biking. Homes for sale in Cumberland provide practical options where you are connected to Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. through I-68 and Amtrak rail.
- North End: It maintains a historic suburban vibe with tree-lined streets and charming older homes near downtown Cumberland. It appeals to residents due to proximity to Constitution Park (picnic areas, trails, public pool) and Washington Middle School.
- LaVale: The town presents a suburban residential setting with single-family homes and townhomes along the National Road, adjacent to LaVale District Park. Families value access to Parkside Elementary School, Braddock Middle School, and Allegany High School.
- Rolling Mill Historic District: features an urban historic atmosphere with preserved industrial-era architecture in a National Register district. Its location draws those near downtown amenities and the C&O Canal towpath for trails.
- Job Market: Cumberland’s economy centers on healthcare, education, and retail, with major employers including UPMC Western Maryland, Frostburg State University, and Cumberland Healthcare Center.
- Recreation: Western Maryland Scenic Railroad offers narrated train excursions through mountains, while the Cumberland Visitor Center provides canal boat rides and history exhibits. Golden Star Theaters – Country Club Cinema screens films in a community setting.
- High Crime Rates: Crime rates exceed national averages by 36%, with violent incidents 78% higher, requiring caution in certain areas
- Limited Job Diversity: Job opportunities lack diversity, centered on healthcare and education, with local unemployment at 5.7% in August 2025.
- Flood Risks: Flood impacts low-lying zones along the Potomac River. Amenities are limited, often necessitating trips elsewhere.
Frostburg has a small-city vibe with student-oriented housing stock. It offers access to Frostburg State University and nearby employment centers in Allegany County. This balance of affordability, educational presence, and regional connectivity helps explain why homes for sale in Frostburg, Maryland often appeal to cost-conscious buyers.
- Downtown Frostburg: It is a compact, walkable area along Main Street with older housing, small businesses, and close access to Frostburg State University and the Great Allegheny Passage trail.
- Mount Pleasant Street Area: Primarily residential blocks with single-family homes and student rentals, appealing for proximity to campus facilities like Cordts PE Center and local schools.
- Eckhart Mines: Semi-rural neighborhood just east of town with older mining-era homes, offering quieter living while still a short drive to Frostburg’s services and I‑68 access.
- Job Market: Key industries center on education via Frostburg State University (3,000+ employees), healthcare at Western Maryland Health System, and light manufacturing.
- Recreation: Frostburg features the Highlands Trail for hiking, distinct from canal paths, and Big Savage Mountain for off-road biking. The Frostburg Community Center hosts indoor sports, while nearby Dans Mountain State Park offers 40 miles of trails and camping.
- High Crime Rates: Frostburg’s property crime rate reaches 2,150 per 100,000 residents, 10% above Maryland’s average, driven by thefts near university areas.
- Limited Job Diversity: There is a heavy reliance on education and healthcare limits options, with manufacturing jobs down 8% since 2020 and few tech roles.
- Winter Weather Risks: Annual snowfall averages 70 inches, causing frequent road closures and power outages in Appalachian valleys. Ice storms elevate infrastructure strain, with 2024 ice storms disrupting services for days.
Dundalk offers easy access to highways, public transit, and waterfront attractions like parks and beaches. With a mix of suburban comfort and convenient location near Baltimore, homes for sale in Dundalk appeal to those seeking value without sacrificing accessibility or lifestyle amenities.
- Saint Helena: The town has a quiet, blue-collar residential vibe near industrial areas like the Seagirt Marine Terminal. It offers proximity to Saint Helena Park for walking trails and the historic St. Helena School building, which is now community space.
- Gary Manor: This neighborhood offers an urban residential feel with tree-lined streets in a compact neighborhood bordered by Northpoint Road and Trappe Road. Residents have easy access to local playgrounds via the Gray Manor & Northshire Community Association and nearby Battle Grove Park.
- Briarwood Mobile Home Estates: The neighborhood provides a suburban mobile home community off Beltway 695 with well-maintained grounds. It attracts families with nearby Charlesmont Elementary School, Sparrows Point Middle and High Schools, and Dundalk Heritage Park for picnics.
- Job Market: Dundalk’s economy centers on maritime and shipping via the Dundalk Marine Terminal. It is also supported by manufacturing at the former General Motors plant site, and logistics tied to the Port of Baltimore.
- Recreation: The North Point State Park offers trails and birdwatching along the Chesapeake Bay. Cox’s Point Park provides waterfront views and fishing access. Additionally, Battle Acre Park features historic War of 1812 sites on the Dundalk Heritage Trail, plus several picnic spots.
- High Crime Rate: Dundalk records a high crime rate of 52 per 1,000 residents, exceeding 97% of Maryland communities.
- Limited Job Diversity: Job opportunities concentrate in maritime, manufacturing, and retail sectors, limiting diversity in professional or tech fields.
- Flood Risks: Coastal flooding poses risks, with 18.6% of properties currently vulnerable and projections rising to 24.7% in 30 years due to sea level rise near the Chesapeake Bay.
Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Cambridge offers affordable living with easy access to Chesapeake Bay beaches, scenic parks, and a walkable downtown rich in history. Its small-town charm and lower cost of living make homes for sale in Cambridge appealing to those seeking a balanced, laid-back lifestyle.
- Colonial Village: A quiet residential neighborhood near Colonial Avenue, featuring single-family homes in a suburban setting. It offers proximity to Maple Elementary School on Egypt Road and Egypt Road Park across the street.
- Atlantic Station: It is a coastal residential area close to the Choptank River, offering a mix of suburban and waterfront living. Residents have easy access to Sailwinds Park for events and Dorchester County Pool on Virginia Avenue.
- Chesterbrook: This is a Calm suburban enclave with easy reach to local amenities in a low-key residential vibe. Attracts residents for nearness to Sandy Hill Elementary School on Glasgow Road and J. Edward Walter Park on Willis Street.
- Job Market: Cambridge’s economy centers on healthcare, manufacturing, education, and agriculture. Major employers are Perdue Farms, University of Maryland Shore Regional Health, and Chesapeake College.
- Recreation: Popular spots include Christ Rock Park at Maryland Route 16 and Dailsville Road for outdoor activities, and the Dorchester County Tennis Facility on Glasgow Street. Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge offers wildlife viewing and paddling trails nearby.
- Higher Crime Rate: Cambridge has a crime rate of 3,733 per 100,000 residents, which is 76% above the national average.
- Lack of Job Diversity: The job market relies heavily on healthcare and manufacturing limiting options beyond these sectors amid Maryland’s modest employment growth.
- Flood Risk: Flooding poses a significant risk due to its low-lying Eastern Shore location. Though, projects like a 1.6-mile living shoreline addresses frequent tidal surges and storm vulnerabilities from events like Hurricane Isabel.
The city combines dense, walkable historic neighborhoods and a redeveloped Inner Harbor with access to more than 4,000 acres of parkland and waterfront promenades. Residents have multiple public transit modes such as buses, light rail, subway, MARC commuter rail, and free downtown circulator routes. These traits, along with direct connections to Washington, D.C., position Baltimore as a relatively affordable urban option.
- Mount Vernon: It is a Dense, urban neighborhood centered on Mount Vernon Place, with 19th‑century rowhouses. It hosts major cultural venues like the Walters Art Museum and Peabody Institute. Residents have walkable access to cultural events such as the Mount Vernon Place Flower Mart and Summer in the Squares.
- Federal Hill: This is a Historic, rowhouse-lined area directly south of the Inner Harbor, anchored by Federal Hill Park and the redeveloped Rash Field Park. It offers access to nearby public schools such as Francis Scott Key Elementary/Middle School and Digital Harbor High School.
- Fells Point: It is a Waterfront, cobblestone neighborhood east of the Inner Harbor with dense historic housing. There is an active mix of bars, restaurants, and small shops along Thames Street and Broadway Square.
Job Market: Baltimore’s job market is anchored by healthcare and education. Johns Hopkins Hospital and Johns Hopkins University, the University of Maryland Medical System, and MedStar Health are among the city’s largest employers.
Recreation: Everyday recreation often revolves around large urban parks like Druid Hill Park, which includes the Maryland Zoo and Rawlings Conservatory. Residents also frequent Inner Harbor attractions such as the National Aquarium and waterfront green spaces like Canton Waterfront Park.
- Elevated Crime Rates: Baltimore’s overall violent crime rate at roughly 1,600 incidents per 100,000 people in 2024.
- Economic Challenges: There are many neighborhoods with long‑standing poverty, concentrated unemployment, and a high share of low‑wage work.
- Coastal Flooding Risks: Parts of the waterfront and low‑lying areas face increasing coastal flooding and “sunny day” high‑tide events, which may affect property risk and infrastructure costs.
The city provides accessible public transit options like fixed routes, paratransit for those with disabilities, and commuter buses to nearby areas including Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. It features 22 parks with walking trails, multi-use paths, and proximity to lake beaches like Greenbrier State Park.
- Northwest Hagerstown: The town has a suburban residential vibe with wide streets, cul-de-sacs, green lawns, and mature trees near I-81. It is attractive due to proximity to Hamilton Playground, Mills Park, Wheaton Park, and strong public schools in the Hagerstown district.
- Historic City Park: This neighborhood offers a residential-urban vibe centered around man-made lakes, wooded walking trails, and cultural sites like the Jonathan Hager House Museum. Residents have easy access to Washington County Museum of Fine Arts and Hagerstown Railroad Museum.
- West End: This is a primarily residential suburban area with convenient to major highways in Maryland’s former Hub City. It is attractive for first-time families with quick drives to downtown Hagerstown, the Appalachian Trail and strong school districts.
- Job Market: Key industries include health care, manufacturing, finance and insurance, transportation, and retail. Major employers comprise Meritus Health, First Data and Citi, Volvo Group, JLG Industries, and FedEx Ground.
- Recreation: Popular spots include Greenbrier State Park for lake swimming and hiking, Crystal Grottoes Caverns as a unique underground attraction, and Antietam National Battlefield for historical walks.
- Traffic Congestion: Peak-hour backups occur on major routes like I-81 and I-70, with commutes to Frederick or D.C. often facing accidents and standstills.
- Limited Nightlife and Amenities: Options for entertainment, dining, and shopping beyond Valley Mall remain sparse, with downtown areas showing urban decay and few nightlife venues.
- Opioid and Drug Challenges: Hagerstown faces a persistent opioid crisis, with multiple methadone clinics downtown and high overdose rates linked to economic decline.
The city offers a relaxed lifestyle with access to parks like Pemberton Historical Park and the Salisbury Zoo, plus nearby coastal areas such as Ocean City beaches and the Chesapeake Bay for outdoor activities. Proximity to major cities like Baltimore and Washington D.C. (about 2.5 hours away) enhances accessibility.
- Mill Pond: It is a a suburban apartment community with on-site amenities like pools, tennis courts, a dog park. It offers proximity to North Salisbury Elementary School, Salisbury University, and a 16-screen cinema, with quick access to downtown Salisbury and Ocean City beaches.
- Sleepy Hollow: This neighborhood maintains a quiet, residential suburban atmosphere in north Salisbury, suitable for families seeking low-key living. Residents value its nearness to North Salisbury Elementary School on Emerson Avenue and parks like Doverdale Park.
- Emerson Heights: It offers a residential neighborhood feel on Salisbury’s east side with single-family homes. It attracts buyers for walking distance to North Salisbury Elementary School and easy drives to Schumaker Park, Salisbury Zoo, and downtown Salisbury’s Unity Square splash pad.
- Job Market: Salisbury’s economy centers on agriculture and food processing, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Major employers are Perdue Farm. TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, and Salisbury University.
- Recreation: Local lifestyle revolves around Chipman Boundless Playground for inclusive play, Arthur W. Perdue Stadium hosting Delmarva Shorebirds minor league baseball games, and Evolution Craft Brewing for craft beer tastings.
- High Crime Rates: Salisbury has one of the highest crime rates in the U.S., with a total crime index of 43 per 1,000 residents exceeding 94% of Maryland communities.
- Limited Public Transit: Public transportation options are scarce, requiring most residents to own a car for commuting and errands, which increases personal costs and contributes to traffic.
- Hot, Humid Summers: Average summer highs reach 86°F with high humidity, making outdoor activities uncomfortable and challenging for those unaccustomed to sticky conditions.
Aberdeen combines small-town charm with modern conveniences, featuring parks, trails, and waterfront recreation. Its strategic location near major highways and rail lines enhances accessibility, making homes for sale in Aberdeen an appealing option for budget-conscious residents.
- Burns Corner: It presents a quiet residential neighborhood with clean, family-oriented surroundings near major highways like I-95. Buyers value its proximity to Bakerfield Elementary School and easy access to shopping areas.
- Gilbert: Home to The Preserve at Gilbert Meadows, offers a suburban vibe with new townhomes, walking trails, a playground, dog park, and pond. It appeals due to nearness to Bakerfield Elementary School (2.1 miles away) and Ripken Stadium.
- Paradise: It is a residential setting along Paradise Road, close to Swan Creek School at 253 Paradise Rd for grades 2-12. Its appeal lies in short distances to schools and local parks like nearby Swan Meadows Park.
- Job Market: Aberdeen’s economy centers on government, defense, and logistics. Major employers are Aberdeen Proving Ground, Frito-Lay, UPS, and Amazon. Employment grew 4.14% from 2022 to 2023, reaching 8,440 jobs.
- Recreation: Local parks like Victory Street Park offer playgrounds, multi-purpose fields, and a baseball diamond. Aberdeen Skatepark provides free skating ramps and an inline rink. Plater Street Park features a community playground, swings, and picnic areas.
- Elevated Crime Rates: Aberdeen’s violent crime rate is at 609 per 100,000 residents—64.6% above the national average.
- Limited Job Diversity: The economy is heavily reliant on defense and logistics, comprising key sectors like government and trade/transportation.
- Flood Risk: It affects 8.5% of the city in FEMA-designated 1% annual chance zones, alongside high overall disaster vulnerability scores.
The city blends historic charm with suburban ease, offering parks like Idlewild and Glebe, plus proximity to Chesapeake Bay beaches. Accessibility via US-50 and local rail supports commuting to Annapolis, positioning homes for sale in Easton as a practical choice for balanced lifestyles.
- Easton Historic District: It maintains an urban historic vibe with colonial and Victorian architecture in the town core. It offers walkability to Easton Elementary School, Idlewild Park (playgrounds, tennis courts, trails), and events like the Waterfowl Festival.
- St. Aubins Heights: The neighborhood offers a suburban residential feel with medium-density housing on Easton’s outskirts. It is close to Saints Peter and Paul Schools and North Easton Park and draws families seeking quieter settings.
- Easton Club: It provides an active adult suburban community with onsite clubhouse, pool, tennis courts, and walking paths. Residents value its location near downtown Easton, Academy Art Museum, and Glebe Park sports fields.
- Job Market: Easton’s economy focuses on healthcare, education, and retail. Major employers include Shore Health System, Talbot County Public Schools, and Adams Publishing Group.
- Recreation: Pickering Creek Audubon Center offers 6 miles of trails and wildlife viewing, reflecting Easton’s natural focus. Avalon Theatre hosts live performances and films, and the Academy Art Museum displays regional art collections.
- High Crime Rate: Easton’s total crime rate exceeds the national average by 12.31%, with property crime at 1,980.5 per 100,000 residents.
- Limited Job Diversity: The job market is constrained by a lack of large-scale employers, resulting in a 1.05% employment drop to 16,900 jobs from 2022-2023.
- Flood Risk: Floods impact 8.2% of properties over 30 years, compounded by major wind risks from hurricanes and storms near Chesapeake Bay.
The area offers family-friendly lifestyles with parks like Fountain Green Park and proximity to Rocks State Park for hiking. Accessibility via US-1 and I-95 connects to Baltimore, making homes for sale in Bel Air South suitable for commuters seeking quiet surroundings.
- Constant Friendship: The area features a suburban family-oriented vibe with townhomes and newer single-family homes in Abingdon. Residents appreciate proximity to top-rated Abingdon Elementary School and community amenities like parks and shopping near I-95.
- Greenbrier Hills: It offers an urban-density residential setting with small homes in Bel Air South. It has access to four public schools and nearby community pools and shopping centers.
- Box Hill: This neighborhood provides a quiet suburban neighborhood atmosphere around Box Hill South Recreation Park. Residents value its closeness to playgrounds, athletic fields, basketball courts, and picnic areas for family activities.
- Job Market: Bel Air South’s economy emphasizes education, healthcare, and retail. Major employers include Harford County Public Schools, Harford Community College, and Upper Chesapeake Health.
- Recreation: Liriodendron Mansion provides historic tours and gardens, while the Ma and Pa Trail offers 5+ miles of biking and hiking paths. Heavenly Waters Park features trails and picnic spots, and Shamrock Park includes playgrounds and sports fields.
- Limited Nightlife: Entertainment options like concerts and nightlife are limited and require travel to Baltimore. Local amenities focus on family activities.
- Traffic Congestion: Rush hours on US-1 and I-95 impacts commuting, with Harford County reporting increased vehicle miles traveled.
- High Property Tax: Compared to national average Maryland’s 1.07% effective rate, strains budgets for homeowners.
Pro Tip If you’re looking for proximity to D.C. Chevy Chase could be a great option. In neighborhoods like Chevy Chase Village, you’ll find a wide range of affordable houses in Chevy Chase with strong rental potential.
Ridgely (safety score of 82) and Frostburg (safety score of 80) are the cheapest and safest cities in Maryland. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.
Top 3 Cheapest Cities to Live in Maryland for Young Adults
When looking for the most affordable city to live in Maryland, you want more than just cheap housing. You want solid job opportunities, a vibrant lifestyle, and a place where you can really thrive. These Maryland cities deliver all three along with affordable homes.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Young Adults |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Baltimore | The city’s job market is anchored by Johns Hopkins University and Hospital, University of Maryland Medical Center, making homes for sale in Baltimoreappealing to professionals. Residents enjoy lifestyle perks like bar and restaurant strips in Fells Point and Federal Hill, art and music around Station North and Hampden. |
| 2. | Columbia | Planned as a live-work-play community, Columbia offers a balanced lifestyle with easy access to work and leisure. With concerts at Merriweather Post Pavilion and a diverse nightlife near the Mall in Columbia, homes for sale in Columbia appeal to those seeking both convenience and vibrant living. |
| 3. | Towson | Towson University injects a steady flow of young adults, supporting budget-friendly bars, coffee shops, and coworking-friendly cafes near Towson Circle and York Road. This vibrant atmosphere makes homes for sale in Towson especially appealing to buyers seeking both convenience and an active, social environment. |
Top 3 Inexpensive Places to Live in Maryland for Families
Florida is a favorite among families for its warm climate, no state income tax, and affordable housing. These three cities offer low living costs and top-notch schools.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Families |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Cumberland | Historic downtown features a pedestrian mall, local shops, and free or low-cost outdoor activities along the Great Allegheny Passage and nearby state parks, giving kids plenty of space to play without relying on paid entertainment. |
| 2. | Hagerstown | Families get walkable amenities like City Park, the Cultural Trail, local playgrounds, and community events downtown, plus access to I‑70 and I‑81 for parents commuting to regional job hubs. |
| 3. | Bel Air South | The city offers strong schools such as Bel Air Elementary, abundant kids’ activities like indoor play spaces and programs at The Arena Club. Its suburban amenities and convenient commute to Baltimore job centers make homes for sale in Bel Air South especially attractive for families. |
3 Best Affordable Places to Live in Maryland for Retirees
Maryland is a retiree’s haven. In these cities, you can find affordable homes, accessible healthcare, and safe communities. There are also plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, and picnics to enjoy a comfortable, active lifestyle.
| Rank | City | Why It’s Great for Retirees |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Easton | Retirees in Easton enjoy a walkable historic downtown, access to excellent healthcare at the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center, and art venues such as the Avalon Theatre and Academy Art Museum. Frequent festivals provide year-round activities and make homes for sale in Easton appealing for those seeking an engaging retirement life. |
| 2. | Crisfield | Retirees can find cheap homes for sale in Crisfield, making waterfront living accessible even on a modest pension or Social Security income. Known as the “Crab Capital of the World,” Crisfield offers a relaxed lifestyle on Tangier Sound with easy access to boating and fishing. |
| 3. | Salisbury | The city offers parks, a local art scene anchored by the Salisbury University Art Galleries, and a calm, small-city pace that provides low-key daily activities like walking paths, exhibits, and community events ideal for older adults. These amenities make homes for sale in Salisbury especially appealing for retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle with easy access to cultural and recreational activities. |
3 Hidden Costs to Consider in Maryland
Even in Maryland’s most affordable cities, home prices are only part of the equation. Flood risk near the Chesapeake Bay, rivers, and low-lying areas can raise insurance costs, and property taxes vary widely by county. So when choosing the cheapest place to live in Maryland, be sure to factor in these costs.
- Flood Insurance: Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flooding. Flood insurance is strongly recommended, adding over $1,500 per year. FEMA’s NFIP helps cap risk and cost, making flood coverage more accessible and manageable in coastal and river-adjacent parts of the state.
- Closing Costs: Maryland imposes some of the nation’s highest closing fees, including transfer and recordation taxes that can reach 2% to 5% of a home’s purchase price.
- Property Taxes: Maryland property taxes average 1.06% statewide which is slightly above the national norm.
Quick Tip: Maryland’s Homestead Tax Credit limits how much your property taxes can increase each year on your primary residence and help protect homeowners from sudden tax spikes. However, it does not apply to second homes or investment properties.
Savings Breakdown: Cheapest Cities in Maryland to Live In
Housing costs vary dramatically across Maryland. Cumberland residents save $4,955 monthly compared to Chevy Chase and $731 compared to Baltimore. The following table breaks down these savings by median home price, monthly mortgage, property tax, insurance, and total monthly costs.
| City | Median Home Price | Avg. Monthly Mortgage | Insurance/taxes | Estimated Monthly Cost for a Single Person | Monthly Savings vs. Miami |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cumberland | $130,000 | $813 | $679 | $1,492 | $4,955 |
| Baltimore | $240,000 | $1,502 | $721 | $2,223 | $4,224 |
| Chevy Chase | $1,203,200 | $5,694 | $753 | $6,447 | – |
Affordable Living Beyond Maryland
Not sure if the cheapest places in Maryland to live will fit your budget? Here are a few surrounding states that offer major tax benefits, a strong job market, and endless outdoor recreation, just like Maryland.
Robust Job Opportunities
Texas is consistently ranked among states with strong job opportunities and it has relatively low cost of living. These are the cheapest places to live in Texas:
- Brownsville: Median home price is $254,995, rent under $1,650 with jobs in education, healthcare, trade, and manufacturing.
- Wichita Falls: Median home price is $194,900, rent under $1,100 and employment in military (Sheppard Air Force Base), healthcare, and local services.
- Abilene: Median home price is $235,000, rent under $2,199, and job opportunities in education, healthcare, defense, and regional services.
Strong Education
A state that combines strong education comparable to Maryland with a much lower overall cost of living is Kansas. Here are the three cheapest places to live in Kansas:
- Coffeyville: Average home price is $162,250, rent is under $750, and can access a full K‑12 public system plus nearby community college or university options.
- Parsons: Average home price is $160,000, rent is under $850, and Parsons hosts Labette Community College, and residents are within commuting distance of Pittsburg State University.
- Pittsburg: Average home price is $122,000, rent is under $800, and hosts Pittsburg State University with colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, and Technology & Applied Science.
Prime Location
Missouri, like Maryland offers a central, well‑connected location while still being one of the cheaper places to live. Here are the top 3 cheapest places to live in Misoouri:
- Joplin: Homes sell for a median price of $177,000, rent under $1,150, and gives direct road connectivity toward St. Louis, Tulsa, Kansas City.
- Springfield: Homes sell for a median price of $244,900, rent under $1,295, and is a primary road hub in southwest Missouri, connecting efficiently to St. Louis, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Kansas.
- St. Joseph: Homes sell for a median price of $182,750, rent under $900, and sits on Interstate 29 and US‑36, directly linking it to Kansas City, Omaha, and the broader Midwest.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Maryland?
Cumberland, Frostburg, and Dundalk are the most affordable cities to live in Maryland. These areas offer more than low prices; they also provide steady job markets, plenty of recreation, and a cost of living 23% lower than the state norm.
Moving to Maryland also offers potential tax advantages, property taxes generally average around 0.9–1.1% of assessed value depending on county. Whether you’re relocating or buying your first home, you can browse listings, compare prices, and make offers online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest place to live in Maryland?
The cheapest place to live in Maryland is Cumberland. It offers affordable housing at a median sale price of $130,000.
» 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Maryland: Find out the other cheapest places to live in Maryland.
Where is the best place to live in Maryland?
The best place to live in Maryland is Columbia, followed by Baltimore, Annapolis, Rockville, Bethesda, Catonsville, and Ellicott City.
What are the living expenses in Florida?
The average cost to live in Maryland is 14% higher than the national average. However, healthcare and transportation are the same as the national average.
Where is the best place to retire in Maryland on a budget?
Easton, Crisfield, and Salisbury are among the best places to retire in Mryland on a budget. They offer affordable housing, small-town comfort, and easy access to medical care.
Which cities have the cheapest cost of living in Maryland?
Frostburg (86) and Cumberland (87) have the cheapest cost of living in Maryland. Frostburg's cost of living is 24% below the state average, while Cumberland's is 23% lower.
