Are you contemplating moving to Maryland and just aren’t sure where to start?
Maryland is known as the “Old Line State.”
It’s a terrific place to live for those wanting to relocate to the East Coast.
However, it can come with a much higher price tag, as Maryland is also known as being one of the most expensive states to live in.
But don’t worry just yet.
This guide will provide you with a list of the most affordable towns in Maryland, so you can live comfortably and stick to a budget that suits you.
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14 of the Cheapest Places to Live in Maryland
1. Hagerstown
First on the list for being one of the most affordable places to live in Maryland is Hagerstown.
It’s also referred to as the “Hub City,” as it connects both Washington, D.C., and Baltimore.
The average household income in Hagerstown is $40,800.
In addition, the home price-to-income ratio is 3.82%.
No wonder it’s recommended for those looking for affordable living.
Locals who live in Hagerstown can take advantage of various recreational activities and plenty of diversity.
2. Baltimore
Not only is Baltimore the largest city in Maryland, but it’s also one of the most affordable to live in.
Housing is relatively affordable, with the average sale price being $209,000.
In addition, the average household income is $50,379.
Baltimore has one of the best restaurant scenes and diverse neighborhoods.
Many residents living here spend a lot of time relaxing around the Inner Harbor.
There are also various professional baseball and football teams in town.
Baltimore also has some of the most amazing waterfront views.
3. Aberdeen
Aberdeen is located only 30 miles from Baltimore.
Aberdeen is a small city but a very tight-knit community.
Residents living here have an average household income of $66,481.
Housing in Aberdeen is affordable, with the median home value being just $192,400.
Residents living in Aberdeen can take advantage of various shopping and entertainment attractions.
There are also plenty of dining options.
Locals can also take advantage of many of Baltimore’s amenities, thanks to the proximity of the city.
4. Salisbury
Salisbury is another one of the most affordable places to live in Baltimore.
It has a median home sale price of $246,000.
The average rent paid in Salisbury is $1,612.
Salisbury is also known as the #1 best college town and one of the fastest-growing towns in the country.
Residents living here can take advantage of kayaking, biking, and even canoeing, conveniently located at Pemberton Historical Park.
Salisbury has an amazing downtown arts and entertainment district where you can find shops, galleries, and more.
Property taxes are low, and housing is affordable.
5. Westminster
Westminster is another affordable town in Maryland for those contemplating moving here.
The median household income is $60,518.
Moreover, Westminster has a very impressive home price-to-income ratio.
McDaniel College is located in Westminster and is worth checking out.
Other places and attractions worth noting include Carroll County Farm Museum, Union Mills Homestead, and Hashawaha Environmental Center.
Overall, Westminster has a rich history and is an extremely prosperous town.
6. Elkton
Elkton, MD, also made the list for being one of the most affordable places to live.
It is located close to Chesapeake Bay and has a rich history.
Elkton was first discovered in 1787 and has always remained one of the most affordable places to live.
It has extremely low property taxes in addition to a home price-to-income ratio of 3.46%.
Most of the original colonial buildings are still present there today.
Elkton is also known for having other attractions, including Meadow Park, Milburn Orchards, and the Maryland Beer Company.
7. Bel Air
Coming in at number seven is Bel Air.
Bel Air is a historic city, but it is also very affordable.
The average household income is $71,122 and the price-to-income ratio is 3.45%.
Bel Air has various entertainment and recreational amenities.
In addition, Bel Air has an amazing craft beer scene and quality restaurants to enjoy.
It’s known for being family-friendly as it has top-notch schools, low property taxes, and safe neighborhoods.
This is one town that deserves a mention.
8. Havre de Grace
Havre de Grace is located right along the Chesapeake Bay and Susquehanna River.
It’s considered a coastal town, yet it’s extremely affordable to live in.
It’s known for having breathtaking views of the waterfront and much more.
The average cost of living in Havre de Grace is significantly lower compared to the state’s average.
The median household income here is $42,039.
The average cost of a home in Havre de Grace is $400,000.
Locals living here can take advantage of beautiful parks, hiking trails, and a downtown area that is rich in history.
There are also various performing arts centers in Havre de Grace.
9. Greenbelt
Greenbelt, Maryland is located only 30 minutes from Washington D.C.
It’s another affordable town to live in for those looking for it.
The average household income is $71,734, while the average property taxes paid are $2,933.
Greenbelt provides plenty of attractions for those living here, including the Greenbelt Museum, the Greenbelt National Park, and the Beltway Plaza Mall.
There are also multiple shopping centers and restaurants throughout the city to enjoy.
10. Easton
Besides being one of the most affordable towns in Maryland, Easton is also ranked 8th best small town in the country.
Easton’s average household income is $61,651, while the home price-to-income ratio is 4.49%.
Easton is located in a perfect spot as it provides easy access to Washington, Annapolis, and Baltimore.
Residents living here also take advantage of quality healthcare, excellent food options, and a variety of shopping centers.
Easton is also known for having multiple arts and cultural centers.
11. Arbutus
If you’re looking for a cheap town in Maryland but want to stay close to Baltimore, consider Arbutus.
It is located along the southwest border of Baltimore.
It’s known as a suburb of Baltimore.
The average home sale price is $225,900 while the average monthly rent is $1,105.
It’s ideal for anyone looking for a peaceful area to live in but with easy access to a variety of amenities.
Arbutus is home to the University of Maryland Baltimore County, so it’s a town full of young professionals and students.
Arbutus also offers various attractions, including Arbour Manor Park, Guinness Open Gate Brewery, and Halo Hawaiian BBQ & Poke Bar.
12. Brunswick
Brunswick is known as one of the state’s best small towns.
But, Brunswick is also excellent in terms of affordability.
About 6,101 people are living in Brunswick.
The average monthly rent paid is $954, while the average home sale price is $199,500.
Brunswick borders the Potomac River and is located along the Maryland and Virginia border.
And while this is a small town, it has a lot to offer residents living here.
Locals can take advantage of Rivers Edge Trails, Brunswick Heritage Museum, Carlo’s Inferno, and Brunswick Family Campground.
13. White Marsh
Also on the list for being one of the most affordable places to live in Maryland is White Marsh.
The average home sale price is $274,500, while the average rent paid is $1,341.
Not only is White Marsh an affordable city, it’s one of the safest cities in the state.
It’s a town that attracts many families, singles, and young professionals alike.
White Marsh is home to the White Marsh Mall and the Avenue at White Marsh.
Other attractions in White Marsh include Honeygo Run Regional Park, The Go-Kart Track, and Double T. Diner.
14. Waldorf
Waldorf is another affordable city for those looking to move to Maryland.
There are nearly 82,000 residents living in Waldorf.
The average household income is $55,489, while the average rent paid for a one-bedroom apartment is $55,489.
It is located just 22 miles from Alexandria.
Living here allows residents to take advantage of many attractions.
If nature is your thing, check out the trails at Cedarville State Forest.
Waldorf also offers plenty of local restaurants and gives locals the perks of living a city life without living in a major metropolitan town.
Maryland Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Maryland Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Maryland?
Overall, the average cost of living in Maryland is 22% above the national average.
In addition, the cost of housing is 54% higher than the country’s average and utilities are 8% above the national average.
Necessities including clothing, food, and groceries are 9% above the national average.
Does Maryland offer any affordable housing programs?
Maryland does offer a program known as HUD that assists low-income renters.
Those interested in buying a home can check out the Maryland Affordable Housing Trust program that was created to make housing more affordable throughout the state.
What makes Maryland a good place to consider for those looking for affordable living?
Since 2010, the overall population of Maryland has seen a 6.5% decrease.
As a result, this has created a conducive environment for those looking to purchase an affordable home.
Many towns in Maryland provide a high quality of living in addition to affordable real estate and low living costs.
