Moving from Austin to Baltimore (2026)

Baltimore has a COL index of 110 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). You'd pay about 10% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$400/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
122 โ†’ 110
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,800 โ†’ $1,900
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 4.8%
income tax
COL difference
122 โ†’ 110
10% cheaper

Salary needed in Baltimore to match your Austin lifestyle

Based on the 10% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in AustinEquivalent in Baltimore
$40K$36,066
$50K$45,082
$60K$54,098
$75K$67,623
$80K$72,131
$100K$90,164
$120K$108,197
$150K$135,246

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$162/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Austin vs Baltimore

ExpenseAustinBaltimore
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,441
1BR rent$1,800$1,900
Groceries$372$391
Transport$50$88
Utilities$170$175
Internet$65$65
Left after essentials$2,284$1,822

Frequently asked questions

Is Baltimore cheaper than Austin?

Yes. Baltimore has a cost of living index of 110 vs 122 for Austin (100 = US average). That's about 10% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Austin to Baltimore?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Baltimore run about $400/month more than Austin. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Baltimore to match my Austin lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Austin, you'd need roughly $67,623/year in Baltimore. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only