Is Baltimore or San Diego more affordable?
Baltimore has a median rent of $1,400/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Baltimore is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Baltimore, MD vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Baltimore and San Diego.
3
Baltimore wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Diego wins
MD
Baltimore
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
576,498
Population
1,386,932
$52,164
Median Income
+52.8%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,400✓
Median Rent / mo
+50.0%$2,100
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+254.5%$780,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
5.75%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
45°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
210 days
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
43"
Annual Rainfall
12"
Who should choose
Baltimore, MD
Baltimore is a city in Maryland with a population of 576,498.
Read full Baltimore guide →Who should choose
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Baltimore vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Baltimore or San Diego?
Maryland has a 5.75% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Baltimore wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Baltimore and San Diego?
Baltimore gets 210 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Baltimore: 64°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Baltimore or San Diego?
Baltimore. San Diego. 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.