Considering a move to Maryland? With its diverse economy and vibrant regions, Maryland offers a unique mix of urban and suburban living. In 2025, the average cost of living in Maryland stands at a cost-of-living index of 115.4. This number is above the national average of 100.
Therefore, it reflects the state’s premium position as a mid-Atlantic hub near major metro areas. Here’s a closer look at what to expect for housing, utilities, and more in Maryland.
TL;DR: Average Cost of Living in Maryland 2025
- Cost-of-living index: 115.4 (national average: 100)
- Average rent for a 2-bedroom: $1,805/month
- Median home price: $415,000
- Average monthly utilities: $135
- Income needed for middle-class lifestyle: $136,000/year
- Grocery prices: 5-7% above national average
- Transportation costs: 14% above national average
- Healthcare expenses: 8% above national average
- Childcare costs: $900 to $2,400/month
What is the Average Cost of Living in Maryland?
Maryland requires an annual income of about $136,000 to live comfortably. This is higher than many regional neighbors but still more affordable than Massachusetts or New Jersey.
However, expenses vary significantly across Maryland’s urban hubs like Baltimore, Silver Spring, and Annapolis. Meanwhile, more rural areas tend to be less expensive.
Here are key monthly expenses in Maryland:
- Rent for a 2-bedroom apartment: $1,805
- Utilities: Around $135 per month
- Groceries: 5-7% higher than the national average
- Transportation: 14% above the national average, mainly due to urban commuting
- Healthcare: 8% above the national average
- Childcare: Between $900 and $2,400, depending on care type and child’s age
Housing and Rental Market in Maryland
Housing affordability in Maryland poses some challenges. The average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is $1,805 monthly. The median home price is $415,000. Both figures indicate moderate to high housing costs.
In comparison, here’s how Maryland housing stacks up against peer states:
- Virginia’s median home price is 7% higher at $444,000
- Delaware is more affordable, with prices 15.2% lower at $352,000
- Pennsylvania offers significantly lower prices, 31.8% less than Maryland at $283,000
- Massachusetts and New Jersey are pricier, with median home prices 48.2% and 25.5% above Maryland’s
Major metro areas like Baltimore and the DC suburbs push housing prices higher. However, rural counties offer more affordable options. As a result, the Maryland housing market has clear regional variation.
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Utilities and Other Living Expenses in Maryland
Utility costs in Maryland average $135 a month. This is about 10-15% higher than neighboring Virginia and Pennsylvania, which are closer to $120. Electricity makes up the largest share of these utility costs.
Groceries in Maryland are 5-7% more expensive than the national average. In comparison, Virginia and Delaware tend to be 3-5% less expensive. Pennsylvania’s grocery costs are 8-10% cheaper. Groceries in Massachusetts and New Jersey cost about 10-15% more than in Maryland.
Transportation costs are 14% above the national average. Urban commuting drives these expenses. Virginia’s costs are similar. Pennsylvania is about 10% cheaper. On the other hand, Massachusetts and New Jersey have transportation costs 10-20% higher than those in Maryland.
Healthcare spending in Maryland is around 8% above the national average. Virginia and Delaware spend 3-5% less, whereas Massachusetts and New Jersey see costs that are 15-20% higher.
Income and Job Market in Maryland
To live comfortably in Maryland, the average salary needed is about $136,000 annually. This figure is higher than what is necessary in Virginia ($121,000), Delaware ($117,000), and Pennsylvania ($110,000).
Massachusetts and New Jersey require even higher incomes, typically $145,000 or more. Maryland’s job market remains strong, especially in sectors like technology, healthcare, government, and education, supporting these income levels.
Childcare expenses are also a significant consideration; costs typically range from $900 up to $2,400 per month, depending on care type and child’s age.
Is the Average Cost of Living in Maryland Worth It?
The average salary needed to live well in Maryland is about $136,000 a year. This is more than Virginia ($121,000), Delaware ($117,000), and Pennsylvania ($110,000). However, it’s below Massachusetts and New Jersey, where $145,000 or more is typical.
Therefore, Maryland offers strong economic opportunities. It also has rich local amenities and a quality of life. Families should plan for childcare costs, which range from $900 to $2,400 monthly. These costs, while significant, are comparable to those of other high-demand states.
Regional Insights for Newcomers
New residents should consider key hubs like Baltimore, Rockville, and Annapolis. These places combine economic access with lively communities. Meanwhile, western and southern Maryland counties tend to be more affordable. These offer a suburban or rural living environment.
Final Thoughts on Maryland’s Cost of Living
Maryland ranks as a moderate-to-premium cost of living state in the mid-Atlantic. It has a strong economy and higher expenses than many of its neighbors. Housing is somewhat costly but varies widely. Utilities and healthcare add to living costs. Groceries and transport are modestly above average.
All in all, Maryland blends affordability and opportunity well. Its average cost of living fits its economic and geographic advantages.
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FAQs About the Average Cost of Living in Maryland
What is the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Maryland?
The average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Maryland is about $1,805 per month, roughly 4% higher than in Virginia and Delaware.
How much salary is needed for a comfortable life in Maryland?
To live comfortably in Maryland, a household typically needs an annual income of around $136,000 to support a middle-class lifestyle.
Are Maryland home prices expensive compared to neighbors?
Maryland’s median home price of $415,000 is cheaper than Massachusetts and New Jersey but pricier than Pennsylvania and Delaware.
Are utility costs higher in Maryland than nearby states?
Yes, monthly utilities in Maryland average $135, which is about 10–15% higher than in Virginia and Pennsylvania.
Is Maryland’s cost of living above the national average?
Yes, Maryland’s cost-of-living index is 115.4, well above the national average of 100.
