Baltimore vs Washington: Cost of Living & Housing Comparison
Baltimore's median home value is $202,900 — 71% lower than Washington's $705,000.
Median household income is $58,349 in Baltimore versus $101,722 in Washington.
Typical rent runs $1,235 in Baltimore and $1,817 in Washington.
| Metric | Baltimore, MD | Washington, DC |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 584,548 | 670,587 |
| Median home value | $202,900 | $705,000 |
| Median household income | $58,349 | $101,722 |
| Median gross rent | $1,235 | $1,817 |
| Climate risk (FEMA) | Relatively High | Relatively High |
On housing costs, Baltimore, MD looks more affordable than Washington, DC — lower median home value and rent. This reflects housing only, not total cost of living.
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- Philadelphia vs Washington: Cost of Living & Housing Comparison
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey; FEMA National Risk Index
Data last updated July 2026.