Moving from Sacramento to Baltimore (2026)

Baltimore has a COL index of 110 vs 127 for Sacramento (100 = US average). You'd pay about 13% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$99/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
127110
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$1,900
per month
State tax
9.3%4.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,159$4,441
per month

Salary needed in Baltimore to match your Sacramento lifestyle

Based on the 13% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in SacramentoEquivalent in Baltimore
$40K$34,646
$50K$43,307
$60K$51,969
$75K$64,961
$80K$69,291
$100K$86,614
$120K$103,937
$150K$129,921

Monthly budget at $75K — Sacramento vs Baltimore

ExpenseSacramentoBaltimore
Monthly take-home$4,159$4,441
1BR rent$2,000$1,900
Groceries$403$391
Transport$100$88
Utilities$150$175
Internet$65$65
Left after essentials$1,441$1,822

Frequently asked questions

Is Baltimore cheaper than Sacramento?

Yes. Baltimore has a cost of living index of 110 vs 127 for Sacramento (100 = US average). That's about 13% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Sacramento to Baltimore?

On a $75K salary, moving from Sacramento to Baltimore could save roughly $99/month on core expenses. That's ~$1,188/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Sacramento, you'd need roughly $64,961/year in Baltimore. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only