Cost of Living in Bethesda, MD
Population 67,403 · Maryland · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Bethesda's housing market reflects its status as a high-earning metro: $1.1 million for a typical home, 270% above the US median, paired with household incomes around $191,348 that put it in the upper third of the state.
Bethesda sits roughly 8 miles north of Arlington — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 31% higher than Arlington's $865,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Bethesda
The median home value in Bethesda is $1,129,700 — 270% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,437/month, 85% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $191,348/year is 157% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.2%, below the national average of 4.8%. Maryland's top state income tax rate is 5.8% and the combined sales tax is 6.0%. Overall, Bethesda has a cost of living index of 296 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 196% more expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Bethesda, MD?
Bethesda has a cost index of 296 (100 = national average). It is 196% above the national average.
What is average rent in Bethesda, MD?
The median gross rent in Bethesda is $2,437 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Bethesda?
The median home value in Bethesda is $1,129,700 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Bethesda?
The median household income in Bethesda is $191,348 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Bethesda, MD?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Bethesda is 6.0%. The Maryland state income tax top rate is 5.8%.
Is Bethesda, MD affordable?
Bethesda is above average in cost of living, with an index of 296 — about 196% higher than the national average.
Bethesda at a Glance
- Population
- 67,403
- Median Income
- $191,348
- Home Value
- $1,129,700
- Median Rent
- $2,437/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.2%
- Sales Tax
- 6.0%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Maryland Rankings
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