Cost of Living in Essex, MD
Population 40,670 · Maryland · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The Essex cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $254,000, rents near $1,307 a month.
Essex sits roughly 9 miles east of Baltimore — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 16% higher than Baltimore's $219,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Essex
The median home value in Essex is $253,500 — 17% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,307/month, 1% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $67,082/year is 10% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.3%, above 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, Essex has a cost of living index of 90 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 10% less 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 Essex, MD?
Essex has a cost index of 90 (100 = national average). It is 10% below the national average.
What is average rent in Essex, MD?
The median gross rent in Essex is $1,307 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Essex?
The median home value in Essex is $253,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Essex?
The median household income in Essex is $67,082 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Essex, MD?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Essex is 6.0%. The Maryland state income tax top rate is 5.8%.
Is Essex, MD affordable?
Essex is near the national average in terms of cost of living, with an index of 90 (100 = US average).
Essex at a Glance
- Population
- 40,670
- Median Income
- $67,082
- Home Value
- $253,500
- Median Rent
- $1,307/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.3%
- Sales Tax
- 6.0%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Maryland Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
Cities in other states with comparable housing costs