Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
17% cheaper
Baltimore is 17% more affordable than Riverside. A $75,000 salary in Riverside is equivalent to $62,109 in Baltimore.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Maryland salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Baltimore has a housing index of 107 while Riverside sits at 155 (national average = 100). The median home in Baltimore costs $200,000 compared to $500,000 in Riverside, a difference of $300,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,300 in Baltimore versus $1,800 in Riverside.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Baltimore scores 103 while Riverside scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Baltimore (101) are lower than Riverside (102). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Baltimore is $52,164 compared to $67,068 in Riverside. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Baltimore.
Amazon affiliate links