Can I Afford to Live in Maryland?
Maryland - DC metro proximity, top incomes, and Chesapeake Bay lifestyle. See median rent, home values, and the most affordable ZIP codes below.
Find ZIP Codes You Can Afford in Maryland
Enter your salary to see neighborhoods in your budget.
🏠 To Buy in Maryland
With median home value of $400,000, you'd typically need an income of at least $100,000/year and a down payment of $40,000 (10%).
🏘️ To Rent in Maryland
With median rent of $1,650/month, you should earn at least $59K/year (30% rent-to-income rule). This is above the US median of $1,163/mo.
💰 Median Income
Maryland residents earn a median household income of $90,203/year. Rent takes approximately 22% of median income.
Most Affordable ZIP Codes in Maryland
Ranked by lowest median rent, minimum population 3,000+
Top-Rated Neighborhoods in Maryland
Highest ZipScore - best combination of safety, schools, and quality of life
FAQs: Living in Maryland
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Maryland?
To live comfortably in Maryland, you'd want to earn at least $59,400/year to rent at the median price without being cost-burdened (spending more than 30% of income on housing). To buy at the median home price of $400,000, aim for a salary of $100,000+.
Is Maryland expensive to live in?
Maryland has a median rent of $1,650/month, which is above the US national median of $1,163. Cost varies significantly by city and neighborhood - the table above shows the most affordable ZIP codes in Maryland.
What is the most affordable city in Maryland?
The most affordable ZIP codes in Maryland are ranked in the table above by median rent. Smaller cities and suburbs typically offer significantly lower costs than the major metro areas. Click any ZIP code to see its full neighborhood profile.