Is Baltimore or Phoenix more affordable?
Baltimore has a median rent of $1,400/month, while Phoenix is $1,650/month. Baltimore is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Baltimore, MD vs Phoenix, AZ
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Baltimore and Phoenix.
2
Baltimore wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Phoenix wins
MD
Baltimore
vs
AZ
Phoenix
Overview
576,498
Population
1,608,139
$52,164
Median Income
+18.9%$62,000✓
Cost of Living
$1,400✓
Median Rent / mo
+17.9%$1,650
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+90.9%$420,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
5.75%
State Income Tax
2.50%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.60%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
86°F
45°F
Avg Low Temp
63°F
210 days
Sunny Days / Year
299 days✓
43"
Annual Rainfall
8"
Who should choose
Baltimore, MD
Baltimore is a city in Maryland with a population of 576,498.
Read full Baltimore guide →Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Baltimore vs Phoenix — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Baltimore or Phoenix?
Maryland has a 5.75% state income tax. Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Baltimore and Phoenix?
Baltimore gets 210 sunny days/year. Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Avg high in Baltimore: 64°F. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F
Which city is better for families — Baltimore or Phoenix?
Baltimore. Phoenix. 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.