Cost of Living in Baltimore city, Maryland
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Baltimore city Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Baltimore city ranks #3,125 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Baltimore city, Maryland
Baltimore's affordability crisis
Baltimore City's rent-to-income ratio of 26.0% is among the highest in Maryland and far exceeds the national benchmark, signaling a severe affordability crunch. With a median household income of $59,623 and median rent of $1,290, residents spend more than a quarter of their income on housing—well above the sustainable 30% threshold.
Least affordable Maryland county
Baltimore City faces the steepest housing affordability challenge in Maryland, with a rent-to-income ratio 42% worse than the state average of 18.3%. Despite lower median rents than some suburban counties, the city's lower income levels create disproportionate housing burden.
Costlier than suburban alternatives
Baltimore City's $1,290 median rent is lower than Baltimore County ($1,566) and Anne Arundel ($1,990), yet the city's lower median income of $59,623 makes rent more burdensome as a percentage of earnings. Suburban counties offer better income-to-housing ratios for residents with employment flexibility.
Housing squeeze in the city
Renters pay $1,290 monthly while homeowners pay $1,402 for mortgages on homes averaging $219,300—often requiring significant renovations. At a median income of $59,623, housing consumes 26.0% of renter income and 28.2% of owner income, leaving limited funds for other essentials.
Baltimore needs income resilience
Baltimore City offers historic charm and urban walkability, but affordability demands careful financial planning and typically requires household incomes above $70,000. Consider pairing Baltimore living with remote work or higher-wage employment to comfortably absorb the city's housing costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Baltimore city
Affordability Verdict
Baltimore city is moderately affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,290/month representing approximately 26.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 32.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,290/month rent versus $1,402/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $112/month cheaper — a 8% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $51,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $60,086/year. With a median household income of $59,623, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 32.0% of renter households in Baltimore city are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Baltimore city sits 4% more expensive than Wicomico County ($1,238/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Baltimore city
Rent Burden
26.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,391
per month
Owner Cost Burden
28.2%
of gross income
The median home in Baltimore city may be a stretch
Median home value is $219,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,751 vs. your max of $1,391.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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