If you’re thinking about moving to Maryland, one of the first questions you’re likely asking is: Is Maryland expensive?

The answer depends on two things — where you’re moving from and which part of Maryland you’re considering.

While Maryland ranks above the national average for cost of living, pricing varies dramatically by county, commute, and housing type. Proximity to Washington, DC drives demand in many areas, but other regions offer more space and different price points.

This breakdown is part of my Ultimate to Moving to Maryland Guide, designed to help relocating families understand housing costs, property taxes, and regional differences before making a move.

Here’s what relocating families need to know before making the move.

How Expensive Is Maryland Compared to Other States?

Maryland is generally:

• More affordable than California and parts of the Northeast (ask me how I know!)

• Comparable to Northern Virginia in some regions

• More expensive than many southern states

The primary cost drivers in Maryland include:

• Housing prices

• Property taxes

• Insurance costs

• Commuting patterns

• Proximity to DC job centers

For professionals relocating for work, higher median incomes often offset higher housing costs.

Median Home Prices in Maryland (By County)

Statewide median pricing sits in the mid-$400,000 range, but that number masks significant regional differences.

Below is a snapshot of approximate median home pricing across several high-demand counties in Central Maryland, often referred to as the Baltimore Metropolitan Region:

Howard County

Approximate Median Price: $620,000
Known for: Strong schools, central location, competitive market.

Carroll County

Approximate Median Price: $466,000
Known for: Larger lots, suburban-rural feel, more space for the price.

Anne Arundel County

Approximate Median Price: $497,570
Known for: Water access, Annapolis proximity, commuter appeal.

Baltimore County

Approximate Median Price: $365,000
Known for: Wide pricing range, diverse neighborhoods, established suburbs.

Montgomery County

Approximate Median Price: $630,000
Known for: DC proximity, strong incomes, higher density housing.

Prince Georges County

Approximate Median Price: $450,000
Known for: Strategic location between DC and Fort Meade, more affordable than Montgomery or Howard Counties.

Housing is the single largest factor in determining whether Maryland feels expensive to you.

Regional Home Price Differences Across Maryland

Outside the Baltimore–Washington corridor, pricing shifts considerably.

Eastern Shore

Approximate Median Price: $395,000
Known for: Waterfront towns, slower pace, seasonal price variation.

Western Maryland

Approximate Median Price: $360,000
Known for: Mountain views, larger lots, lower density living.

Southern Maryland

Approximate Median Price: $449,970
Known for: Growing suburbs, military proximity, commuter corridors.

These regions may offer more affordability than central Maryland, but job access and commuting patterns vary.

Rent Prices Across Maryland

Median rent statewide averages in the mid-$1,700 range, but this varies widely by location.

• DC-adjacent suburbs often exceed $2,500 per month

• Central Maryland remains competitive and median rents are typically between $1,800 and $2,400 a month

• Rural areas may offer lower rental pricing

If you plan to rent before buying, factor in commute time, school zoning, and property tax differences — as those influence rental pricing.

Property Taxes in Maryland

Maryland’s property tax rates vary by county and municipality.

Compared nationally, Maryland’s effective property tax rate is moderate — higher than many southern states but lower than several northeastern states.

Important considerations:

• Each county sets its own rate

• Some municipalities add additional taxes

• Homestead tax credits may limit increases for primary residences

• Veterans with a 100% disability rating can apply for property tax exemptions

Property taxes can significantly impact monthly payment calculations.

Income vs Cost of Living in Maryland

Maryland consistently ranks among the highest median household income states in the country.

Strong industries include:

• Federal government

• Military installations

• Healthcare and biotech

• Technology

• Education

Higher wages in many sectors help balance housing costs for relocating professionals.

What Makes Maryland Feel Expensive?

Maryland may feel expensive due to:

• Competitive housing inventory

• Strong demand near DC

• County-level income tax differences

• County-level property tax differences

• Insurance costs near water (and not just the shore - proximity to rivers and streams can impact your insurance costs)

However, it also offers:

• Access to major metropolitan job markets

• Strong public school systems

• Nationally ranked healthcare

• Diverse lifestyle options

Cost alone doesn’t determine value - alignment with your goals does.

Can You Live Comfortably in Maryland?

Many households earning six figures live comfortably in central Maryland suburbs.

Comfort level depends on:

• Housing choice

• School district

• Debt structure

• Lifestyle preferences

• Commute flexibility

Relocating professionals often find Maryland’s earning potential balances overall cost.

Is Moving to Maryland Worth the Cost?

For many families, yes.

Maryland offers:

• Stable employment markets

• Proximity to Washington, DC

• Diverse geography

• Waterfront communities

• Historic neighborhoods

• Four distinct seasons

The key is choosing the right county and region for your priorities. Understanding cost structure before relocating helps prevent surprises - and positions you to make a confident decision.

So ... is Maryland expensive?

Maryland is not the cheapest state in the country. But it is also not uniformly expensive. Cost varies significantly by county, housing type, and lifestyle choice.

If you’re comparing counties, commute patterns, and home prices as part of a relocation plan, working with a local Maryland relocation specialist can help you evaluate options clearly and strategically.

Making a state-to-state move is different than moving across town — and understanding cost of living is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle.