Austin vs Baltimore: cost of living compared
Baltimore is about the same as Austin overall. Austin (TX) has no state income tax; MD tops out around 4.75%.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
While the overall cost of living in Austin and Baltimore appears quite similar, the underlying expenses driving these figures differ significantly. Austin's higher housing costs are a primary factor, while Baltimore's transportation and everyday goods and services contribute more to its overall expense. Understanding these differences is key to evaluating a potential move between these two distinct metropolitan areas.
Housing
Housing costs present a substantial difference, with Austin being noticeably more expensive for both home purchases and rental properties. The median home price in Austin is considerably higher than in Baltimore, and median one-bedroom rents follow a similar pattern. Baltimore offers more affordable housing options, often featuring older, established housing stock, while Austin's housing market reflects its rapid growth and newer construction.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses show a mixed picture. Baltimore has a state income tax, which Austin does not, impacting take-home pay. Transportation costs are higher in Baltimore, while Austin's are more moderate. Food, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods and services are somewhat more expensive in Baltimore compared to Austin. Utility costs are roughly comparable in both metros, suggesting similar energy demands.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move involves lifestyle changes. Austin offers a warm climate with hot summers and mild winters, known for its outdoor activities and vibrant cultural scene. Baltimore experiences all four seasons, including cold winters and humid summers, with a dense, historic urban core and access to the Mid-Atlantic coast. Commute times are quite similar, but each city's traffic patterns and public transit options vary.
Bottom line
For households considering a move, the impact on their budget will depend heavily on housing choices and income tax considerations. Austin demands a much larger housing budget, but residents avoid state income tax. Baltimore offers more affordable housing but comes with higher transportation costs and a state income tax. Each metro presents a unique financial landscape, requiring careful evaluation of individual spending priorities.
| Measure | Austin, TX | Baltimore, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 118 |
| Housing index | 132 | 100 |
| Transportation index | 109 | 118 |
| Food index | 102 | 105 |
| Healthcare index | 102 | 108 |
| Utilities index | 112 | 112 |
| Misc index | 102 | 105 |
| Median home price | $498,000 | $348,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,750/mo | $1,550/mo |
| Average commute | 30 min | 33 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Baltimore home with the True Cost Calculator.