Cost of Living in Olney, MD
Population 36,000 · Maryland · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Housing in Olney sits 107% above the national median — $632,000 for the typical home — but median household incomes near $171,766 (130% above the US figure) soften the blow that similar pricing creates in lower-wage metros.
Olney sits roughly 12 miles west of Columbia — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 32% higher than Columbia's $480,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Olney
The median home value in Olney is $632,400 — 107% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $2,409/month, 83% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $171,766/year is 130% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.0%, 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, Olney has a cost of living index of 198 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 98% 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 Olney, MD?
Olney has a cost index of 198 (100 = national average). It is 98% above the national average.
What is average rent in Olney, MD?
The median gross rent in Olney is $2,409 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Olney?
The median home value in Olney is $632,400 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Olney?
The median household income in Olney is $171,766 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Olney, MD?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Olney is 6.0%. The Maryland state income tax top rate is 5.8%.
Is Olney, MD affordable?
Olney is above average in cost of living, with an index of 198 — about 98% higher than the national average.
Olney at a Glance
- Population
- 36,000
- Median Income
- $171,766
- Home Value
- $632,400
- Median Rent
- $2,409/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.0%
- Sales Tax
- 6.0%
Nearby Cities
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Maryland Rankings
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