Cost of Living in Towson, MD
Population 57,683 · Maryland · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Towson lands reasonably close to national benchmarks on most cost indicators, with a median home value of $445,000 — 46% above the US figure. That makes it a useful reference point for comparing with more extreme markets in Maryland.
Located 7 miles north of Baltimore, Towson falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 103% higher than Baltimore's $219,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Towson
The median home value in Towson is $445,100 — 46% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,784/month, 36% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $100,481/year is 35% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.7%, 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, Towson has a cost of living index of 142 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 42% 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
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Towson, MD?
Towson has a cost index of 142 (100 = national average). It is 42% above the national average.
What is average rent in Towson, MD?
The median gross rent in Towson is $1,784 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Towson?
The median home value in Towson is $445,100 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Towson?
The median household income in Towson is $100,481 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Towson, MD?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Towson is 6.0%. The Maryland state income tax top rate is 5.8%.
Is Towson, MD affordable?
Towson is above average in cost of living, with an index of 142 — about 42% higher than the national average.
Towson at a Glance
- Population
- 57,683
- Median Income
- $100,481
- Home Value
- $445,100
- Median Rent
- $1,784/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.7%
- Sales Tax
- 6.0%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Maryland Rankings
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