Baltimore vs San Antonio: cost of living compared
San Antonio is 25% cheaper than Baltimore overall. San Antonio (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
Moving from Baltimore to San Antonio generally means a substantial reduction in overall living expenses. San Antonio offers a significantly lower cost of living, driven primarily by much more affordable housing. While many categories show San Antonio as the more budget-friendly option, the difference in housing costs creates the most noticeable gap, making it a key factor in the overall financial picture for potential movers.
Housing
Housing in San Antonio is considerably more affordable than in Baltimore, whether you are looking to buy or rent. Median home prices are substantially lower in San Antonio, as are typical rents for smaller units. Baltimore's housing costs are closer to the national average, while San Antonio's are well below. Property taxes and insurance costs can vary, but the initial purchase price and monthly rent are a major differentiator.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses for transportation, food, and healthcare are generally lower in San Antonio. Baltimore residents also face a state income tax, which is not present in Texas, further impacting take-home pay. While utilities in Baltimore are somewhat higher, the combined effect of lower costs across multiple categories and the absence of state income tax in San Antonio means everyday spending can be noticeably lighter there.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Baltimore experiences distinct four seasons, including cold winters, and offers a more established, dense urban environment with historical architecture. San Antonio has a warmer, more arid climate, with hot summers and mild winters, and generally feels more spread out. Getting around in Baltimore often involves navigating older street grids, while San Antonio's transportation network is more expansive. Both metros have significant cultural attractions and distinct regional characteristics.
Bottom line
For those considering a move, San Antonio presents a clear advantage in terms of household budget, primarily due to its much lower housing costs and the absence of a state income tax. While Baltimore offers a different climate and urban feel, a move to San Antonio would likely free up significant financial resources. The decision hinges on balancing desired lifestyle and climate with the considerable cost savings available in the Texas metro.
| Measure | Baltimore, MD | San Antonio, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 88 |
| Housing index | 100 | 71 |
| Transportation index | 118 | 95 |
| Food index | 105 | 88 |
| Healthcare index | 108 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 112 | 102 |
| Misc index | 105 | 85 |
| Median home price | $348,000 | $248,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,550/mo | $1,100/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 San Antonio home with the True Cost Calculator.