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Cost of Living in
Maryland

Living cost is 15.03% higher than avg
Families spend upto $10,194/mo on avg
Homeowners spend $9,660/mo on avg
Renters spend $5,873/mo on avg

Cost of Living in
Maryland

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A Breakdown of the Cost of Living in Maryland

U.S. Avg.

Maryland

Difference Diff

Home Price

$532,491

$712,938.67

34%

Apartment Rent (per month)

$1,367

$2,290

68%

U.S. Avg.

Maryland

Difference Diff

Phone (per month)

$219.4

$193.8

12%

Total Energy (per month)

$200.23

$262.84

31%

U.S. Avg.

Maryland

Difference Diff

Grocery Staples

Corn Flakes (per box)

$6.79

$6.66

Frozen Corn (per bag)

$2.41

$2.47

Frozen Meal (per package)

$4.85

$4.27

12%

Cooking Oil (per bottle)

$6.16

$10.49

70%

Detergent (per bottle)

$19.51

$21.95

12%

Facial Tissues (per box)

$2.85

$2.45

14%

Sweet Peas (per can)

$1.83

$1.91

Sugar (per bag)

$4.66

$5.4

16%

Bread (per loaf)

$3.87

$4.25

10%

Frying Chicken (per lb)

$1.64

$1.62

Meat & Poultry

Chicken (per lb)

$1.71

$1.69

Steak (per lb)

$14.54

$16.92

16%

Sausage (per lb)

$5.23

$6.03

15%

Ground Beef (per lb)

$8.61

$8.3

Snacks & Beverages

Soft Drink (per bottle)

$3.45

$3.56

Potato Chips (per bag)

$5.54

$4.8

13%

Coffee (per lb)

$6.55

$6.86

Fresh Orange Juice (per half gallon)

$5.22

$5.31

Fruits & Vegetables

Peaches (per can)

$4.40

$2.99

32%

Lettuce (per head)

$1.98

$2.44

23%

Bananas (per lb)

$0.64

$0.79

23%

Potatoes (per bag)

$5.58

$5.88

Dairy & Eggs

Parmesan Cheese (per lb)

$4.69

$5.47

17%

Margarine (per lb)

$1.30

$1.59

22%

Eggs (per dozen)

$3.98

$5.06

27%

Whole Milk (per gallon)

$4.08

$4.88

20%

Seafood

Chunk Light Tuna (per can)

$1.22

$1.55

27%

U.S. Avg.

Maryland

Difference Diff

Tire Balance (per tire)

$70.23

$61.99

12%

Gasoline (per gallon)

$2.9

$3.19

10%

U.S. Avg.

Maryland

Difference Diff

Doctor Visit (per visit)

$116.03

$151.08

30%

Dentist Visit (per visit)

$145.11

$125.68

13%

Ibuprofen (per bottle)

$12.38

$12.67

Prescription Drug (per month)

$20.8

$21.43

Optometrist Visit (per visit)

$95.27

$142.28

49%

U.S. Avg.

Maryland

Difference Diff

Women’s Slacks

$35.43

$37.96

Boys’ Jeans

$29.47

$29.11

Men’s Shirt

$39.36

$39.11

Wine (per bottle)

$7.51

$13.61

81%

Beer (per 6-pack)

$11.17

$10.73

Veterinary Services (per visit)

$65.33

$83.19

27%

Tennis Balls (per pack)

$3.59

$3.84

Yoga (per class)

$12

$27.22

127%

Movie (per ticket)

$11.67

$16.46

41%

Newspaper (per copy)

$19.31

$8.95

54%

Washer Repair (per service)

$109.47

$73.4

33%

Women Slacks

$34.88

$35.99

Boy Jeans

$29.51

$28.57

Man Dress Shirt

$39.05

$38.42

Dry Cleaning (per item)

$13.45

$15.88

18%

Shampoo (per bottle)

$1.55

$1.86

20%

Toothpaste (per tube)

$3.64

$5.1

40%

Beauty Salon (per visit)

$47.5

$61.42

29%

Haircut (per cut)

$27.08

$34.19

26%

Fried Chicken (per serving)

$4.37

$6.64

52%

Pizza (per pizza)

$11.99

$13.06

Hamburger (per serving)

$5.28

$5.98

13%

Step into the Free State—where the cost of living is 19% higher than the national average. Maryland's strategic location between New York and Washington D.C., prestigious institutions like the Naval Academy, and the iconic Chesapeake Bay create premium demand throughout the region. With Montgomery County hosting numerous federal contractors and BWI Airport connecting the Mid-Atlantic, housing and service costs in Maryland exceed most national benchmarks.

Housing costs in Maryland are 34% higher than the national average. The average cost of a house in Maryland is $712,938.67, outpacing the US median of $375,000. When you're purchasing a new home in Maryland, prepare for initial down payments of 15 to 20%, plus closing costs. Moreover, monthly housing payments typically exceed national standards by 45% to 55%.
Maryland rental rates are 67.5% higher than the national average. One-bedroom units throughout Maryland average $2,290.00 monthly, with two-bedroom options reaching $1,900. Despite these elevated rates, brace for limited parking availability and smaller outdoor spaces across Maryland's competitive rental landscape.
Utility costs in Maryland are 11% higher than the national average. Beyond basic services, summer cooling demands can push monthly bills up to $250 during peak usage periods. The average utility bill in Maryland is $450 monthly, which fluctuates based on county infrastructure and property specifications. The state's humid climate and aging utility infrastructure in metro areas like Baltimore lead to increased maintenance needs.
Maryland grocery costs are 10% higher than the national average. Milk costs $4.88 per gallon, more than Virginia's $3.85 and Pennsylvania's $4.10. Four-person households allocate $1,300 to $1,450 monthly for grocery expenses, while individual adults generally budget around $350 per month.
Transportation expenses fall 4.2% lower than the national average. The gas cost in Maryland is $3.19 per gallon, which is slightly higher than Virginia's $3.47 and West Virginia's $3.40. Auto insurance premiums average $1,300 monthly in Maryland, a 10% increase over the national average. But when you add Metro fares, urban parking, and vehicle maintenance, transportation costs can add up quickly.
Medical expenses in Maryland are 1.45% higher than the national average. Standard physician visits in Maryland average $151.08, higher than North Carolina's $140 and Tennessee's $135. Emergency injury treatment can cost up to $3,200 without insurance.
Miscellaneous expenses are 3.69% higher than the national average. This covers weekend excursions to the Eastern Shore, baseball games at Nationals Park, and visits to Baltimore's American Visionary Art Museum. Evenings in Georgetown or Federal Hill may reach $85, while family outings to the Maryland Science Center can cost $110.

Moving to Maryland? Be ready for higher costs, especially near D.C. and Baltimore. But the charm, history, and waterfronts are free—just make sure your budget can handle everything else! 👉 Next Step: Compare single-family homes in Maryland.

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Is Living in Maryland Expensive?

Maryland ranks among the more expensive states in the US, with a cost of living 15.03% higher than the national average. Housing plays a major role, with home prices averaging 66% above the national median of $375,000.

A $712,938.67 budget in Maryland can get you a townhouse with modest yard space and garage access. In comparison, the same amount could purchase a luxury home in Raleigh or a property with plenty of acreage in Austin. Higher costs for food and utilities also contribute to the financial pressure in Maryland.

Housing in Maryland

The average cost of a house in Maryland goes well beyond the US average. Real estate across the Free State averages 34% higher than national norms, placing it among the East Coast's more premium markets. With current mortgage rates ranging from 6.5% to 7% and annual property taxes around $4,200, monthly costs can add up quickly. Here's what to expect from Maryland homeownership:

Buying a House in Maryland

Young adults and single people often gravitate toward homes in Baltimore or Cumberland, which provide proximity to major employers like T. Rowe Price, Northrop Grumman, and everyday shopping at Wegmans, Safeway, and The Gallery. Property values average $229,000 in Baltimore and $185,000 in Cumberland. These price points mean your monthly payments span $1,500 to $2,000, before taxes and insurance. Budget-conscious buyers can find opportunities in Aberdeen or Salisbury, where homes are typically priced between $290,000 and $380,000.
If you're a married couple with young children (under 6), you should set aside $500,000 to $850,000 for homes in Columbia, Ellicott City, or Catonsville. These communities feature spacious yards and family amenities. Local educational institutions like Centennial High School, Howard High School, and Catonsville Elementary maintain excellent reputations for academics and STEM programming.
Families with school-age children (ages 6 to 17) typically invest $1.2 million to $1.8 million in larger properties in Bethesda, Rockville and Annapolis. These premium communities offer extensive outdoor recreation, along with access to elite schools like Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School and Richard Montgomery High School.

Renting a House in Maryland

Maryland rental costs exceed the national average by about 67.5%. Monthly rents typically start around $1,675, but can vary widely depending on location and property features. Here's a regional breakdown of rental prices across the state:

Single young professionals typically go for one-bedroom apartments in Baltimore's Federal Hill and Inner Harbor, which typically rent for about $1,630 monthly. The city offers waterfront dining, lively nightlife, and cultural attractions. Annapolis also appeals, with its historic charm and the Naval Academy nearby. More affordable rents ($1,100 to $1,300) are available in Hagerstown and Cambridge, which offer access to government jobs and the University of Maryland.
Young families with small children (under 6) may spend $2,200 to $3,500 monthly on homes near Bohrer Park in Gaithersburg, close to Baker Park and the National Museum of Civil War Medicine in Frederick, or around Harford Community College in Bel Air. These neighborhoods offer playgrounds, community centers, and quality schools.
Families with older students (ages 6 to 17) often rent homes in Potomac near the C&O Canal, or in Chevy Chase beside Rock Creek Park, where monthly rents range from $3,500 to $5,500. Other popular options include neighborhoods near Winston Churchill High School, Walt Whitman High School, and Bethesda Elementary, which offer excellent schooling for your kids.
Downsizing residents typically spend $1,800 to $2,800 per month on one- or two-bedroom apartments in scenic areas like Easton, Ocean City, or St. Michaels. These communities have low-maintenance condos near top healthcare centers such as Union Memorial Hospital, Johns Hopkins Bayview, and the University of Maryland Medical Center. This makes them a popular choice for seniors seeking stress-free living.
International students should budget around $2,500 per month for two-bedroom apartments near the University of Maryland in College Park, Towson University in Towson, or nearby areas like Greenbelt and Hyattsville. You can save 67.5 by sharing rentals near popular spots like The Hall CP, Cornerstone Grill, or Ledo Pizza.

Utilities in Maryland

Food and Groceries in Maryland

Transportation in Maryland

Healthcare in Maryland

Maryland's medical costs are 1.45% higher than the national average, adding to the state's overall living expenses. Specialized treatments can be even more costly due to the presence of top medical facilities in the state. Here's a breakdown of medical expenses in Maryland:

Doctor Visit— $151.08+ per appointment: Standard medical visits in Maryland cost about $151.08. Routine care like illness treatment, blood pressure checks, or prescription refills usually fall within this range. Specialized consultations at top hospitals like Johns Hopkins or the University of Maryland Medical Center can be more expensive.
Dental Visit— $125.68+ per appointment: Basic cleaning and exams cost about $125.68, while cavity treatments range from $185 to $235. Maryland's prices are higher than Richmond ($125) and Norfolk ($120). Minor procedures like X-rays and fluoride treatments run 8 to 12% above the national average of $125.
Optometrist Visit— $142.28+ per appointment: Maryland eye exams cost about $142.28, higher than the national average of $130. This typically covers vision tests and prescription updates. Additional services like contact lens fittings or glaucoma screenings can add $70 to $185.
Prescription Drugs — $21.43+ per package: Managing chronic conditions such as hypertension with Lisinopril costs between $18 and $28 per month without insurance. Treating type 2 diabetes with Metformin ranges from $22 to $45 monthly. Short-term antibiotics like Amoxicillin typically cost between $28 and $38.
Over-the-Counter Meds — $12.67+ per package: Essential medications like pain relievers, allergy treatments, and cold remedies like DayQuil or Mucinex typically cost between $12.67 and $17 per package. Whether you're managing seasonal allergies or headaches from Beltway traffic, it's important to keep your medicine cabinet well-stocked.

Maryland's healthcare costs are higher than many states, due to its top medical facilities and higher healthcare professional salaries. Proximity to Washington D.C. and world-class institutions like Johns Hopkins drives up prices while ensuring excellent care. As it is, routine visits, specialized treatments, and emergencies all require careful financial planning. Health insurance is key, with monthly premiums ranging from $520* to $980*.

Disclaimer: These figures represent averages and may vary based on individual circumstances and specific insurance providers. It's recommended to compare plans and consult with insurance professionals to find the best coverage for your needs.

Miscellaneous Costs in Maryland

Miscellaneous costs are 3.69% higher than the national average of $2,800 per year. From crab festivals to Smithsonian visits, the state offers a wide range of recreational activities:

Food and Drinks: Maryland restaurant prices vary by location and season. Burgers cost around $6.25 at diners like The Double T or Jimmy's Seafood. Full meals cost about $32 per person. Crab cakes at Thames Street Oyster House or Cantler’s Riverside Inn range from $22 to $28, while pizza slices cost $3.25 to $5.25. Coffee averages $4.15, and local craft beer is $7 to $8.
Personal Care: Grooming services in Maryland typically range from affordable haircuts at $28 to full salon treatments around $52. Skincare treatments cost between $65 and $125, manicures average $28, and massages start at $80. These prices reflect the quality and variety of options available throughout the state.
Clothing and Laundry: Maryland's professional culture requires investment in quality business attire and seasonal clothing. Dress shirts cost approximately $38, while dress pants average $32. Professional dry cleaning services cost $18.50 per visit, so home laundering remains more economical.
Fitness and Entertainment: Maryland’s activity and entertainment costs are pretty affordable. Yoga classes at studios like Past Tense Yoga in Baltimore, Mindful Movement in Annapolis, or Tranquil Space in Arlington cost around $20. Movie tickets at AMC Towson Square, Regal Westview, or AFI Silver are about $13.25 each. Many outdoor activities, like hiking the C&O Canal, exploring Assateague Island, or visiting Fort McHenry National Monument, are low-cost or free.
Pet-Related Expenses: Routine veterinary visits in Maryland, at places like VCA Animal Hospitals or BluePearl Emergency in Towson, cost around $72. Emergency care can go over $550. However, the state has many pet-friendly spots, including Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis, Betterton Beach in Kent County, and Downs Park in Pasadena. You can also find leash-friendly trails at Patapsco Valley, Seneca Creek, and Gunpowder Falls State Parks.

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Maryland?

The average income in Maryland is 15.03% higher, but that may not be enough to ensure financial comfort. High housing costs, childcare expenses, and daily commuter needs often stretch household budgets across the state.

Homeowners spend $115,916.00 per year: Mortgage payments, property taxes, and home maintenance (especially in cities like Rockville, Columbia, or Silver Spring) drive up annual costs for homeowners in Maryland.

Renters spend $70,472.00 per year: High rent in areas near Washington D.C. or Baltimore, paired with utilities and transportation costs, makes renting a costly affair across most of the state.

Families with kids spend $122,324.00 per year: Childcare, healthcare, extracurricular activities, and larger homes push family expenses high. Whether you're living in Montgomery County or Annapolis, raising a family in Maryland needs a solid household income.

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What is a Cost of Living Calculator?

A cost of living calculator helps you compare the expenses required to live in a different location. The calculator factors in various living expenses like housing, food, utilities, transportation, fitness, and entertainment, etc., and helps you estimate how much salary you need to live in that city. Since the cost of goods and services varies in different cities, a Maryland cost of living calculator can help you make the decision to move to this city or not.

About Cost of Living Data

The data used to determine Maryland's cost of living is sourced from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Published since 1968, COLI data is recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This organization regularly updates its data to offer a detailed and well-researched view of living expenses in cities across the country. An independent Advisory Board reviews C2ER’s data collection methodologies and quarterly publications to ensure consistency and quality. For more information, visit www.coli.org. Data published as of Oct 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Maryland a good place to live?

Yes, especially for those who value proximity to D.C., access to top-tier education, and a scenic coastal lifestyle. Maryland is also home to world-class healthcare at Johns Hopkins, as well as highly rated school districts in Montgomery and Anne Arundel counties.

What is the average cost of living in Maryland, USA?

The average cost of living in Maryland is 15.03% higher than the national average. Bethesda and Potomac are expensive, while Baltimore, Cumberland, and Hagerstown rank among Maryland's most affordable communities.

What does apartment rental cost in Maryland?

One-bedroom apartments in Maryland typically rent for around $2,290.00 per month. Rates are higher in sought-after areas like Bethesda and Annapolis, where Metro access, cultural attractions, and waterfront living drive up demand.

What do two-bedroom apartments cost in Maryland?

Two-bedroom apartments in Maryland typically range from $2,500 to $3,200 per month. Expect higher prices for waterfront views or upscale buildings in areas like Annapolis, Baltimore's Inner Harbor, and Bethesda.

What do utilities cost in Maryland?

Monthly utility costs in Maryland typically range from $380 to $450. This includes electricity, water, sewer, internet, and phone services. Bills often rise in the summer due to increased air conditioning use.

What does childcare cost in Maryland?

If you are moving to Maryland, expect to pay between $1,100 and $1,600 per month for childcare. Costs vary by location, with daycare centers in Bethesda and Rockville typically priced higher than in-home care options in areas like Baltimore or Cumberland.

Data provided by Redfin, a national real estate brokerage.