Is Baltimore or Boston more affordable?
Baltimore has a median rent of $1,400/month, while Boston is $1,783/month. Baltimore is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Baltimore, MD vs Boston, MA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Baltimore and Boston.
3
Baltimore wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Boston wins
MD
Baltimore
vs
MA
Boston
Overview
576,498
Population
672,814
$52,164
Median Income
+56.7%$81,744✓
Cost of Living
$1,400✓
Median Rent / mo
+27.4%$1,783
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+177.5%$610,400
32%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
5.75%
State Income Tax
5.00%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
45.41°F
45°F
Avg Low Temp
42.48°F
210 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
43"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Baltimore, MD
Baltimore is a city in Maryland with a population of 576,498.
Read full Baltimore guide →Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Baltimore vs Boston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Baltimore or Boston?
Maryland has a 5.75% state income tax. Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Baltimore and Boston?
Baltimore gets 210 sunny days/year. Avg high in Baltimore: 64°F. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F
Which city is better for families — Baltimore or Boston?
Baltimore. Boston. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.