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 2025
| 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
Here’s our list of 10 cities that offer affordable living options in the Free State:
#1 Cumberland
- Median house rent is $900 | Rental prices range between $352 and $2,200.
- Median home value of Cumberland is $147,108.
- Cost of living in Cumberland is 26.8% cheaper than the national average.
Cumberland is an affordable place to live in Maryland, with healthcare costs 15.8% lower than the national average. The city is surrounded by the scenic Appalachian Mountains and the Potomac River. It also has a thriving job market, with Belt Paving and S Schwab & Co. being the major employers.
» Cumberland Homes for Sale: Find your dream home in the cheapest city in Maryland.
#2 Baltimore
- Median house rent is $1,500 | Rental prices range between $100 and $12,000.
- Median home value of Baltimore is $184,748.
- Cost of living in Baltimore is 7.4% cheaper than the national average.
Baltimore is one of the cheapest places to live in Maryland with the median home rent being $1,500. Housing costs are also 39.8% less than nationwide and, with a free home worth estimator, you can get a ballpark figure in less than a minute. The city is also known for hosting the oldest public market system in the United States.
» Baltimore Homes for Sale: Browse thousands of cheap homes in Maryland.
#3 Aberdeen
- Median house rent is $1,881 | Rental prices range between $1,195 and $3,000.
- Median home value of Aberdeen is $324,699.
- Cost of living in Aberdeen is 3.8% cheaper than the state average.
Aberdeen is one of the most affordable cities to live in Maryland, with healthcare costs being 15.6% less than the national average. The city is home to world-class institutions like the Aberdeen High School and the University of Maryland. Companies like Apg Federal Credit Union and Cook Auto are major contributors to the local economy.
» Aberdeen Homes for Sale: Browse affordable living options in Aberdeen.
#4 Salisbury
- Median house rent is $1,595 | Rental prices range between $630 and $3,980.
- Median home value of Salisbury is $255,841.
- Cost of living in Salisbury is 16.3% cheaper than the national average.
Salisbury offers affordable living in Maryland with housing costs 39.6% below nationwide on average, and transportation costs 20.6% lower. The city is home to Salisbury University, ranked among the top in the state. It also offers several job opportunities with the presence of key firms like TidalHealth and Perdue Farms.
» Salisbury Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of the cheapest cities in Maryland.
#5 Cambridge
- Median house rent is $1,899 | Rental prices range between $1,000 and $3,500.
- Median home value of Cambridge is $256,061.
- Cost of living in Cambridge is 18.6% cheaper than the national average.
Often referred to as the ‘Groove City’, transportation in Cambridge costs 24.8% less on average than nationwide. Cambridge’s affordable food, health, housing, and transportation make it one of the cheapest cities to live in Maryland. Egide USA and LWRC International are two major employers in the city.
» Cambridge Homes for Sale: Find homes in this affordable city in Maryland.
#6 Hagerstown
- Median house rent is $1,250 | Rental prices range between $750 and $3,500.
- Median home value of Hagerstown is $278,474.
- Cost of living in Hagerstown is 7.4% cheaper than the national average.
Utilities cost 10.1% lower than the national average. You can comfortably live in Hagerstown, with an average annual income of $48,481. The city also offers outdoor activities like fishing and boating in Greenbrier State Park. Allegheny Energy, Inc. and Phoenix Color are two key firms that contribute to the city’s strong job market.
» Hagerstown Home for Sale: Find a home in one of the cheapest places to live in MD.
#7 Greenbelt
- Median house rent is $2,331 | Rental prices range between $580 and $4,000.
- Median home value of Greenbelt is $288,009.
- Cost of living in Greenbelt is 8.1% higher than the state average.
Greenbelt is one of the best places to live in Maryland. The monthly expenditure on food for an individual is $590, which makes it highly affordable. Housing costs are also 12.3% lower than the national median. Greenbelt is also home to the top-rated Eleanor Roosevelt High School which makes it an ideal place for families.
» Greenbelt Homes for Sale: Search for homes in the city of Greenbelt.
#8 Bel Air South
- Median home value of Bel Air South is $445,615.
- Cost of living in Bel Air South is 3.8% cheaper than the state average.
Bel Air South is one of the most affordable places to live in Maryland. The cost of living is 3.8% lower compared to the state average, and healthcare 15.6%. The city is also expected to see a 23.8% job growth in the near future. Constellation Energy and Pegasystems are two key employers.
» Bel Air South Homes for Sale: Find a home in this modern Maryland city.
#9 Easton
- Median house rent is $2,500 | Rental prices range between $1,665 and $3,550.
- Median home value of Easton is $434,421.
- Cost of living in Easton is 5.3% cheaper than the state average.
Healthcare in Easton costs 17.7% lower than the national average. This makes it one of the most affordable towns in Maryland for senior citizens. Easton also has access to most urban amenities, with an hour and a half’s distance from Washington DC. The city is a hub for jobs, with The Whalen Company and Celeste Industries being top employers.
» Easton Homes for Sale: Find a home in one of the many cheap areas to live in Maryland.
#10 Dundalk
- Median house rent is $1,850 | Rental prices range between $950 and $2,900.
- Median home value of Dundalk is $215,622.
- Cost of living in Dundalk is 6.5% cheaper than the state average.
Dundalk is one of the cheapest cities to live in Maryland, with the average housing cost being 41.8% lower than nationwide. The city is home to major companies like Belfast Valley Concrete and Insurance Auto Auctions Inc. These companies offer jobs in the construction and insurance sectors.
» Dundalk Homes for Sale: Find a home in one of the most inexpensive places to live in Maryland.
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.
