What Salary Do You Need to Live in Baltimore?

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Moving to Baltimore

Located in Maryland, Baltimore is the largest city in the state and the 30th-most populous city in the United States. With a population of over 620,000 people, Baltimore is the cultural and economic center of the Baltimore metropolitan area, with nearly 9 million residents. The city is home to various attractions, including the National Aquarium, the Maryland Science Center, and the Camden Yards baseball stadium. Baltimore is also known for its strong maritime history. It served as a major port city during the early days of the United States. Today, the city continues to be a hub for business and commerce, with a thriving downtown area filled with office buildings, hotels, and restaurants. Baltimore is a vibrant and thriving city that offers something for everyone.

If you are thinking of moving to Baltimore, you may be wondering what salary you need to live comfortably in this vibrant city. The cost of living in Baltimore is relatively high compared to other parts of the United States. However, it is still possible to live a comfortable life here on a moderate income. Here are some things to consider when budgeting for your new life in Baltimore.

Where Does Your Salary Go When Living In Baltimore?

When you live in Baltimore, your salary doesn’t go as far as you’d like it to. The cost of living here is high, and there are a lot of hidden expenses that can add up quickly. For example, housing costs are high, and if you aren’t careful, you can easily end up spending too much on your rent or mortgage. Additionally, transportation costs can be expensive, especially if you need to use a car to get around. And then there are the everyday expenses, such as food and utilities, which can also take a big chunk out of your budget. In addition, healthcare, childcare, taxes, and entertainment costs might be too expensive.

So, when you’re living in Baltimore, it’s important to be mindful of your spending and make sure that you stretch your money as far as possible. Otherwise, you may find yourself struggling to make ends meet.

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Costs of Real Estate

The cost of real estate in Baltimore is relatively high, but there are a few factors that contribute to this. First, the city is located in the Northeast, one of the country’s most expensive regions. Additionally, Baltimore is a major metropolitan area, and real estate prices are usually higher in cities than in smaller towns or rural areas. However, there are still some affordable neighborhoods in Baltimore, so it is possible to find a place to live that fits your budget.

If you’re looking for an apartment in Baltimore, you can expect to pay around $1,597 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Of course, this price can vary depending on the specific neighborhood that you choose to live in. For example, apartments in downtown Baltimore will be more expensive than apartments in the suburbs.

If you’re looking to buy a home in Baltimore, you can expect to pay a median price of $509,743. Baltimore’s housing expenses are 47% higher than the national average, but it is still possible to find affordable homes in Baltimore. There are various neighborhoods to choose from, and you can find a home that fits your budget if you take the time to look around.

Some of the best neighborhoods in Baltimore for finding affordable housing include Canton, Patterson Park, and Hampden. These neighborhoods offer various housing options, and you can find a place to live that fits your budget.

Cost of Transportation

Baltimore has high transportation costs. Bus fares and gas prices are 3% more expensive than the national average in Baltimore. But there are a few ways to save money on your transportation expenses. If you live in the city, you can take advantage of Baltimore’s public transportation system. The Maryland Transit Administration offers various options for getting around the city; and you can purchase a monthly pass for $74, and a one-day pass will cost you $4.4. This pass gives you unlimited rides on all of Baltimore’s public transportation options, including buses, trains, and light rail.

If you need to use a car to get around, you can expect to pay a monthly average of $2.69 per gallon for gas. Additionally, parking can be expensive in Baltimore. You may want to budget for parking fees when you’re planning your transportation expenses.

See Also: Cities With The Best Public Transportation In The US

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Taxes

The tax burden in Baltimore is high. The effective property tax rate is 1.72%, and the sales tax rate is 6%. In addition, the state income tax rate is between 2%-5.75%. Combined, these taxes can take a big chunk out of your budget. However, there are a few ways to lower your tax burden in Baltimore.

If you’re a homeowner, you may be eligible for the Homestead Tax Credit, which can help to lower your property taxes. Additionally, if you’re a senior citizen or a disabled person, you may be eligible for the Maryland Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit, which can help lower your property taxes.

If you’re looking for ways to save money on your taxes, you can check with the Baltimore City Office of Taxpayer Services. They can help you find ways to lower your tax burden and save money on your taxes.

See Also: Best Moving Companies In Baltimore MD

Cost of Utilities

Baltimore’s Department of Public Works is responsible for providing drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater services to the citizens of Baltimore. The Maryland Public Service Commission regulates utilities in the state, including electric, natural gas, telephone, and water companies. Baltimore Gas and Electric is the largest provider of electricity in the state of Maryland. The company serves more than 1.2 million customers in central Maryland.

The cost of utilities in Baltimore is 7% high than the national average. The average monthly electricity bill is $179.56 per month. However, there are a few ways to save money on your utility bills.

If you’re looking for ways to save money on your electricity bill, you can try to use energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs. You can also try to limit your use of air conditioning and heat to save money on your electricity bill.

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Healthcare

Healthcare costs in Baltimore are 8% lower than the national average. A routine doctor’s visit may cost $101.41, while a trip to the dentist could cost $87.12, and a veterinary may cost $54.40 or more.

Some of the best hospitals in Baltimore include Johns Hopkins Hospital, University of Maryland Medical Center, and Mercy Medical Center.

If you’re looking for ways to save money on your healthcare costs, you can check with the Baltimore City Health Department. They offer a variety of programs and resources that can help you save money on your healthcare costs.

Childcare in Baltimore

If you have children, you may be wondering how much it will cost to provide child care for them. The cost of child care in Baltimore is 8% lower than the national average. The average cost of family daycare was $209.10 per week for newborns to kids aged birth through 23 months, $176.90 per week for preschoolers aged 3 and 4 years old, and $156.06 per week for school-agers over 5 years of age.

There are several childcare options available in Baltimore, including daycare centers, nannies, and babysitters.

If you’re looking for ways to save money on your childcare costs, you can check with the Baltimore City Department of Social Services. They offer a variety of programs and resources that can help you to save money on your childcare costs.

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Cost of Food

The cost of food is a significant concern for many families in Baltimore. According to a recent study, the average cost of food in Baltimore is 7% higher than the national average. A gallon of milk costs an average of $2.08, a dozen eggs cost $1.94, and a loaf of bread is $3.26. This figure will naturally vary based on the type of food you buy.

In addition to the cost of groceries, families in Baltimore also have to contend with the cost of dining out. The average meal at a restaurant costs approximately $15 per person, which can quickly add up if you eat out several times per week. Some of the best restaurants in Baltimore include Woodberry Kitchen, Gertrude’s, and The Brewer’s Art.

Fortunately, there are ways to save money on food costs. Many grocery stores offer discounts for loyalty cardholders, and there are often sales on certain items. In addition, you can save money by cooking at home rather than eating out. By being mindful of your spending, you can ensure that your family has access to healthy and affordable meals.

Miscellaneous Costs

Entertainment and personal care costs can add up quickly in Baltimore. A night out at the movies for two people can easily cost over $24. Luckily, there are ways to save on entertainment expenses. Discount websites like Groupon offer great deals on restaurants, shows, and other activities. When it comes to personal care, the cost of a haircut and color at a salon can range from $40 to $100. Add in the cost of monthly dues for a gym or yoga studio, and it’s easy to see how expenses can add up quickly in this city. However, there are also plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Baltimore, from exploring the city’s many parks to visiting its museums and historic landmarks. So while costs can be high in some areas, there are also ways for budget-conscious residents can save.

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Understanding the Job Market in Baltimore

If you’re planning to move to Baltimore, it’s important to understand the local job market. The unemployment rate in Baltimore is 5.8%, which is higher than the national average of 5.75%. However, there are a number of industries that are doing well in Baltimore, including healthcare, education, IT, and manufacturing. Top employers in the city are:

  • Johns Hopkins University
  • Johns Hopkins Health System
  • University of Maryland Medical System
  • Northrop Grumman Corp.
  • Wal-Mart Stores Inc.
  • Exelon Corp.
  • Giant Food LLC
  • Verizon Communications Inc
  • Southwest Airlines
  • Leidos Holdings Inc

When it comes to finding a job in Baltimore, it’s important to be aware of the competition. Many people who move to Baltimore are looking for work in the city’s healthcare and education industries. As a result, the job market can be competitive in these fields. However, there are a number of resources available to help job seekers find employment in Baltimore. The Maryland Job Network offers a variety of job search resources, and the Baltimore City Department of Labor can provide information about local job openings.

See Also: Negotiating A Job Relocation Package

How Much Should You Earn To Live Comfortably Well In Baltimore?

If you’re moving to Baltimore, you’ll need to make sure your salary is high enough to cover the cost of living in the city. Based on the cost of living in Baltimore, it is estimated that you would need to earn a salary of $77,120 to live comfortably in the city. This figure includes the cost of housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and other expenses. It also assumes that you are able to save a few hundred dollars each month. The amount of money you need to live comfortably in Baltimore is determined by a number of factors, including your lifestyle and the size of your family. If you want to live a really extravagant life in Baltimore, you’ll have to make more money. This figure will also vary depending on your job title and industry.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a single person must make $8.34 per hour. To feed 2 adults and 1 kid, one adult must earn $34.70 every hour if he is the sole earner. The expense of living for a family of two parents who both work and has two children is about $26 per hour.

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Conclusion

In order to live comfortably in Baltimore, you will need a salary of at least $77,120. While this number may seem high, it is important to remember that Baltimore offers a wide range of amenities and activities that make a living here enjoyable. If you are considering making a move to Charm City, be sure to research well in advance to ensure that you are prepared for the cost of living. Thanks for Reading!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of living in Baltimore?

The cost of living in Baltimore is high. In Baltimore, Maryland, the cost of living is 17% greater than the national average.

How much money do you need to live comfortably in Baltimore?

You need to make a salary of at least $77,120 to live comfortably in Baltimore.

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What is the minimum wage in Baltimore?

The minimum wage in Baltimore is $12.50 per hour.

What is the poverty wage in Baltimore?

The poverty wage for a single adult without dependents is $6.19 per hour. If only a single adult is working, the required hourly pay for two adults with one kid is $10.56. For two adults with two children, it’s $6.37 if they’re both working.

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What are the best things to do in Baltimore?

Baltimore offers a wide range of activities and attractions, including the National Aquarium, the Maryland Zoo, and Camden Yards. There are also several museums, art galleries, and historical sites to explore. In addition, Baltimore is home to various festivals and events throughout the year.

Written by


Alex Sherr is the founder of My Long Distance Movers, a blog that provides moving information and resources for people who are relocating. He has more than two decades of experience in the moving and relocation industry, and he is passionate about helping people relocate smoothly and efficiently. When he's not writing or blogging, Alex enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children.