Baltimore vs Minneapolis: cost of living compared
Minneapolis is 8% cheaper than Baltimore overall. State income tax tops out around 4.75% in MD vs 7.05% in MN.
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
When comparing the overall cost of living, Minneapolis generally presents a more budget-friendly option than Baltimore. The difference is noticeable across most categories, with housing, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses contributing most significantly to Baltimore's higher overall index. While some daily costs are roughly similar, the cumulative effect points to a more substantial financial commitment in the Mid-Atlantic city.
Housing
Housing costs are somewhat higher in Baltimore, whether considering purchasing a home or renting a typical one-bedroom apartment. Baltimore's median home price is greater, and monthly rents are also elevated compared to Minneapolis. Both cities offer a mix of housing types, from historic rowhouses to modern developments, but the initial outlay for a home or rental will generally be more substantial in Baltimore.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for transportation, food, healthcare, and utilities are generally higher in Baltimore. Commute times are also longer on average in Baltimore. However, a key difference lies in state income taxes, which are considerably higher in Minnesota than in Maryland. This could offset some of the savings on goods and services, making the impact on take-home pay a notable consideration for residents.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, the two metros offer distinct experiences. Baltimore has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, while Minneapolis experiences a humid continental climate with very cold, snowy winters and warm summers. Baltimore is a historic port city with a denser, older urban fabric, while Minneapolis features a more modern urban design with extensive park systems and a strong emphasis on outdoor activities, even in colder months.
Bottom line
For those considering a move, Minneapolis generally offers a more favorable financial landscape with lower overall living expenses, particularly in housing and transportation. However, the higher state income tax in Minnesota could diminish some of these savings. Baltimore, while more expensive across most categories, benefits from a lower state income tax burden. The decision ultimately hinges on balancing these financial trade-offs with preferred climate and urban environment.
| Measure | Baltimore, MD | Minneapolis, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 108 |
| Housing index | 100 | 94 |
| Transportation index | 118 | 98 |
| Food index | 105 | 102 |
| Healthcare index | 108 | 105 |
| Utilities index | 112 | 108 |
| Misc index | 105 | 98 |
| Median home price | $348,000 | $328,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,550/mo | $1,450/mo |
| Average commute | 33 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Minneapolis home with the True Cost Calculator.