Washington, DC, and Baltimore, MD, are two culturally rich cities on the East Coast with a close proximity to each other but distinct characteristics. They both offer an abundance of work opportunities, vibrant neighborhoods, educational institutions, and cultural sites, albeit with different vibes. However, both cities have significant differences regarding cost of living, crime rates, tax policies, sports scenes, and other aspects. This comparison aims to provide detailed insights into these two cities to help both potential residents and tourists make informed decisions.
Distance between
Washington, DC and
Baltimore, MD : 34.5 miles
Washington's population is larger by 16%. Its population has grown by 97,991 people (17.1%) since 2000. The population of Baltimore has decreased by 74,656 people (11.5%) during that time.
In terms of crime and safety, both cities face challenges. However, on average, Washington, DC, tends to have a lower crime rate compared to Baltimore. According to the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting Program, Baltimore has experienced higher rates of violent crimes like homicide and robbery than Washington, DC. That said, each city's crime rates can vary considerably from neighborhood to neighborhood, and crime rates are only one factor to consider when deciding where to live or visit.
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
Sex Offenders
According to our data, there are 1,058 registered sex offenders living in Washington and 1,585 registered sex offenders living in . The ratio of residents to sex offenders in Washington is 644 to 1; the ratio in Baltimore is 388 to 1. The number of registered sex offenders compared to the number of residents is a smaller in Washington than in Baltimore.
Cost of Living
Overall, the cost of living in Washington, DC, is much higher than in Baltimore. According to the cost of living index, DC falls into one of the top ten most expensive cities in the US. This encompasses housing, transportation, groceries, health care and utilities. Baltimore, on the other hand, offers a more affordable cost of living, which is slightly above the national average but still significantly lower than Washington, DC.
Income Tax
Both Washington, DC, and Baltimore have a progressive income tax system, meaning the tax rates increase along with the income levels. In DC, rates range from 4% to 8.95%, while in Baltimore, residents pay a Maryland state income tax (2% to 5.75%) and a Baltimore city income tax (3.2%).
Property Tax
Property taxes are significantly different between the two cities. In Washington, DC, the tax on residential real estate property is quite low compared to other major US cities - roughly around 0.56%. In Baltimore, it's much higher, approximating 2.248%.
Sales Tax
Washington, DC, imposes a sales tax rate of 6% on most goods. However, for prepared food, the sales tax is 10%. Baltimore, located in Maryland, has a state-wise sales tax rate of 6%, imposed on most retail sales.
Income
Type
Washington
Baltimore
Estimated median household income
$90,088
$54,652
Estimated per capita income
$65,808
$35,091
Cost of living index (U.S. average is 100)
124.2
105.7
If you make $50,000 in Baltimore, you will have to make $58,751 in Washington to maintain the same standard of living.
Geographical Conditions
Geographically, both cities lie in the Mid-Atlantic region and are located near bodies of water that influence their climates significantly. Washington, DC, is nestled along the Potomac River, while Baltimore is located on the Patapsco River's tidal portion, providing a significant portion of the city with waterfront views and contributing to its prominent maritime culture.
Both cities have a rich educational environment. Washington, DC, is home to esteemed universities like Georgetown University and George Washington University. On the other hand, Baltimore houses Johns Hopkins University, one of the top-ranking universities globally. For K-12 education, DC's public school system has shown improvement in graduation rates and test scores, but Baltimore's school system continues to grapple with challenges related to funding and performance.
Both cities have robust economies. Washington, DC’s economy is dominated by the federal government, but it also has growing sectors in business services and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). In Baltimore, health and bioresearch, finance, and the port industry play significant roles. However, unemployment rates are typically lower in DC than in Baltimore. Nevertheless, both cities offer diverse employment opportunities, but the type of work available can vary significantly depending on the industry.
Biggest Employers
In Washington, DC, the federal government remains the biggest employer, with numerous governmental agencies headquartered within the city. Other significant employers include Medstar Health and Georgetown University. In Baltimore, Johns Hopkins University and Johns Hopkins Health System top the list of employers, followed by the University of Maryland Medical System.
There were 376 building permits issued in Washington in 2012 (149 more than in 2011) compared to 191 building permits issued in Baltimore in 2012 (116 more than in 2011).
In Washington (District of Columbia), 90.9% voted for Democrats and 7.3% for Republicans in 2012 Presidential Election. In Baltimore (Baltimore city), 87.4% voted for Democrats and 11.1% for Republicans.
Elections
Type
Democrats
Republicans
Other
Year
Washington
Baltimore
Washington
Baltimore
Washington
Baltimore
2020
92.6%
87.5%
5.4%
10.7%
2.0%
1.8%
2016
90.9%
84.8%
4.1%
10.5%
5.0%
4.6%
2012
90.9%
87.4%
7.3%
11.1%
1.8%
1.4%
2008
92.5%
87.6%
6.5%
11.7%
1.0%
0.6%
2004
89.6%
82.5%
9.4%
17.1%
1.0%
0.5%
2000
85.2%
82.9%
9.0%
14.2%
5.9%
2.9%
1996
85.2%
79.3%
9.3%
15.5%
5.5%
5.1%
Breakdown of population affiliated with a religious congregation
Type
Adherents
Congregations
Religion
Washington
Baltimore
Washington
Baltimore
CATHOLIC CHURCH
12.6%
11.0%
7.4%
8.2%
AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES IN THE USA
6.2%
1.4%
10.3%
2.2%
SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION
4.4%
1.4%
10.3%
7.3%
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
3.1%
1.6%
5.3%
4.0%
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
0.9%
0.5%
1.8%
1.5%
MUSLIM ESTIMATE
0.7%
0.6%
1.1%
1.5%
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
0.5%
1.0%
2.1%
4.3%
LUTHERAN CHURCH
0.1%
0.4%
0.3%
1.8%
Weather
Both Washington, DC, and Baltimore feature a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. However, Baltimore tends to experience more snowfall during the winter months. On average, Baltimore gets about 20 inches of snow per year, while Washington, DC, sees about 15 inches annually. Both cities experience similar precipitation and humidity levels throughout the year.
Weather and climate
Type
Washington
Baltimore
Temperature - Average
56.4°F
54.5°F
Humidity - Average morning or afternoon humidity
68.8%
70.4%
Humidity - Differences between morning and afternoon humidity
33%
36%
Humidity - Maximum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
81%
84%
Humidity - Minimum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
48%
48%
Precipitation - Yearly average
42.7 in
42.9 in
Snowfall - Yearly average
32.4 in
39.6 in
Clouds - Number of days clear of clouds
15.9%
17.5%
Sunshine amount - Average
61.5%
60.3%
Sunshine amount - Differences during a year
21%
16%
Sunshine amount - Maximum monthly
66%
63%
Sunshine amount - Minimum monthly
45%
47%
Wind speed - Average
9.7 mph
7.9 mph
Average climate in Washington, District of Columbia
Average climate in Baltimore, Maryland
Air pollution
Type
AQI
CO
NO2
OZONE
PB
PM10
PM25
SO2
Year
Washington
Baltimore
Washington
Baltimore
Washington
Baltimore
Washington
Baltimore
Washington
Washington
Baltimore
Washington
Baltimore
Washington
Baltimore
2018
88
89
0.32
0.23
11.6
11.8
23.2
28.3
N/A
N/A
16.4
N/A
8.8
7.9
0.8
0.1
2017
84
89
0.32
0.25
12.3
12.1
24.9
27.7
N/A
N/A
16.5
N/A
9.8
8.2
1.0
0.2
2016
98
102
0.43
0.26
14.7
13.0
24.6
28.3
0.002
N/A
17.2
N/A
9.5
7.7
1.0
0.3
2015
91
89
0.34
0.28
14.8
12.4
26.2
28.3
0.002
N/A
17.0
N/A
10.4
9.5
1.3
0.4
2014
85
82
0.33
0.25
11.6
11.8
25.9
25.7
0.002
N/A
17.1
N/A
10.0
10.9
1.0
0.6
2013
88
86
0.34
0.22
11.7
10.7
25.6
25.6
0.002
N/A
17.3
N/A
11.6
9.6
1.0
0.5
2012
103
98
0.58
0.24
15.2
11.3
27.6
25.0
0.002
N/A
N/A
N/A
12.2
11.2
1.6
0.5
2011
105
101
0.67
0.24
15.4
12.5
27.7
25.1
0.002
N/A
N/A
N/A
11.4
12.1
3.1
0.8
2010
114
110
0.88
0.24
15.9
13.1
29.3
26.9
0.003
N/A
N/A
N/A
9.3
12.2
3.4
1.0
2009
90
84
0.86
0.23
16.2
12.2
24.4
23.5
0.002
N/A
N/A
N/A
7.6
10.4
4.6
1.4
2008
103
96
1.23
0.25
16.2
13.6
25.3
21.6
0.003
N/A
N/A
N/A
8.5
12.8
5.6
1.8
2007
113
107
1.17
0.21
16.8
13.8
27.1
23.2
0.004
N/A
N/A
N/A
10.4
14.0
5.1
2.5
2006
114
112
1.11
N/A
17.2
12.0
25.5
24.6
0.004
N/A
N/A
N/A
10.9
14.7
4.5
N/A
2005
105
111
0.86
N/A
20.5
14.3
22.7
26.3
0.006
N/A
N/A
23.0
11.7
17.1
4.5
N/A
2004
113
108
0.62
N/A
21.3
15.3
20.6
28.0
0.004
N/A
N/A
23.1
11.3
16.3
6.5
N/A
2003
108
110
0.90
N/A
23.6
17.8
20.8
22.4
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
12.2
13.9
8.3
N/A
2002
125
119
1.16
N/A
23.7
17.4
25.0
19.4
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
16.3
6.7
5.8
2001
113
104
1.07
N/A
23.9
18.2
22.0
23.9
0.017
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
6.7
6.0
2000
115
101
1.17
N/A
20.2
17.0
19.1
22.4
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
8.2
6.3
Natural disasters
Type
Washington
Baltimore
Tornado activity compared to U.S. average
110.6%
117.8%
Earthquake activity compared to U.S. average
42.9%
40.6%
Natural disasters compared to U.S. average
19%
0%
Transportation
Washington, DC, boasts an extensive subway system (Metro) and numerous bus lines that offer convenient commuting options. DC also supports bike commuting and has multiple bike-sharing systems. Baltimore's public transit system is not as comprehensive, but the city offers various options like Light Rail, Metro Subway, and bus routes. Both cities see a high percentage of commuters, but traffic can be a significant issue in DC.
Transport
Type
Washington
Baltimore
Amtrak stations
1
2
Amtrak stations nearby
3
2
FAA registered aircraft
456
136
FAA registered aircraft manufacturers and dealers
3
2
Means of transportation to work
Type
Washington
Baltimore
Bicycle
2%
0.4%
Bus
6.3%
6.2%
Carpooled
7.8%
7.3%
Car alone
62.5%
77.2%
Railroad
0.3%
0.3%
Streetcar
10.6%
1.2%
Subway
1.3%
0.2%
Taxicab
0.8%
0.7%
Walked
5.7%
4.5%
Average travel time to work
Type
Washington
Baltimore
Average
39.2 min
32.3 min
Other means
26 min
26.3 min
Public transportation
38.9 min
46.8 min
Private vehicle occupancy
Type
Washington
Baltimore
Average
1.1
1.1
Drove alone
89.4%
90.7%
In 2 person carpool
9.7%
7.5%
In 3 person carpool
0.6%
1%
In 4 person carpool
0.4%
0.4%
In 5-6 person carpool
0%
0.3%
In 7+ person carpool
0%
0.2%
How many people usually rode to work in the car, truck or van.
Real Estate
Real estate in Washington, DC, is notoriously expensive, with the median home prices significantly above the national average. Additionally, DC's real estate market is highly competitive. In contrast, Baltimore's real estate market is much more affordable, with the median home price below the national average. Rental prices in DC are also significantly higher compared to Baltimore.
Neighborhoods
Both cities boast vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. In DC, neighborhoods like Georgetown, Capitol Hill, and Dupont Circle offer a mix of historic charm and urban convenience. Baltimore is known for its distinctive neighborhoods as well, from the historic charm of Fell’s Point to the artsy vibe of Hampden.
Houses and residents
Type
Washington
Baltimore
Houses
357,482
293,487
Average household size (people)
2.1
2.4
Median year apartment built
1965
1959
Median year house/condo built
1941
1944
Length of stay in the house since moving in
13.5 years
15.7 years
Houses occupied
319,565 (89.4%)
254,370 (86.7%)
Houses occupied by owners
132,936 (41.6%)
123,249 (48.5%)
Houses occupied by renters
186,629 (58.4%)
131,121 (51.5%)
Median rent asked for vacant for-rent units
$2,791
$1,254
Median monthly housing costs
$1,817
$1,196
Median price asked for vacant for-sale houses and condos
$996,150
$207,303
Estimated median house or condo value
$669,900
$193,100
Median numbers of rooms
3.8
5.6
Median number of rooms in apartments
3.1
4.2
Median number of rooms in houses and condos
6
6.5
Median house price - detached houses
Over $1,000,000
$321,473
Median house price - in 2-unit structures
Over $1,000,000
$218,934
Median house price - in 3-to-4-unit structures
$471,443
$142,945
Median house price - in 5 or more unit structures
$527,983
$257,173
Median house price - Townhouses or other attached units
$817,288
$210,096
Median house price - All housing units
$790,542
$246,241
Median house age
65
72
Renting percentage
58%
52.3%
Housing density (houses/condos per square mile)
5,821.9
3,632.1
House value disparities
26.7%
38.5%
Household income disparities
45.7%
49.4%
Median household income for houses/condes with a mortgage
$163,111
$85,990
Median household income for apartments without a mortgage
$108,852
$53,334
Housing units without a mortgage
777 (0.8%)
2,415 (2.8%)
Housing units with both a second mortgage and home equity loan
8,586 (8.5%)
5,740 (6.6%)
Housing units with a mortgage
100,122 (99.2%)
84,578 (97.2%)
Housing units with a home equity loan
1,057 (1%)
579 (0.7%)
Housing units with a second mortgage
12,793 (12.7%)
8,544 (9.8%)
House/condo owner moved in on average (years ago)
10
14
House/condo renter moved in on average (years ago)
1
3
Housing units lacking complete kitchen facilities
1.5%
6%
Housing units lacking complete plumbing facilities
1.5%
5.1%
Housing units in structures
Housing units in structures
Washington
Baltimore
One, detached
11.2%
16.4%
One, attached
22.2%
49.5%
Two
2.7%
4.5%
3 or 4
6.8%
4.9%
5 to 9
7.3%
5.5%
10 to 19
8.5%
4.8%
20 to 49
7.6%
2.8%
50 or more
33.6%
11.4%
Mobile homes
0.2%
0.2%
Boats, RVs, vans, etc.
0.0%
0.1%
Median real estate property taxes paid for housing units
Self-employed workers in own not incorporated business
16,654
12,671
State government workers
6,699
20,410
Unpaid family workers
580
356
Industries and Occupations
In Washington, DC, government jobs predominate, but occupations are abundant in the private sector as well, particularly in professional services, healthcare, and education. In Baltimore, the healthcare and social assistance sector is particularly strong, thanks to the presence of organizations like Johns Hopkins Hospital. The city also has a thriving arts, entertainment, and recreation industry.
In terms of quality health care, both cities excel. DC hosts MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Howard University Hospital, and several top-rated children’s hospitals. Baltimore is renowned for Johns Hopkins Hospital, which consistently ranks among the nation's top hospitals.
Health (county statistics)
Type
Washington
Baltimore
General health status score of residents in this county from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent)
In terms of infrastructure, Washington, DC, holds a certain edge with its globally renowned monuments, museums, and government buildings. The city's roads, bridges, and public transportation systems are generally well-maintained. Baltimore also has sound infrastructure with major landmarks like Inner Harbor. However, parts of the city grapple with infrastructure issues, and maintenance could be improved.
Infrastructure
Type
Washington
Baltimore
Hospitals
114
45
TV stations
27
19
Arenas or stadiums
4
3
Bank branches located here
247
215
Bank institutions located here
34
44
Main business address for public companies
30
27
Drinking water stations with no reported violations in the past
5
13
Drinking water stations with reported violations in the past
HMDA - Conventional home purchase loans - Applications denied
Year
Washington
Baltimore
1999
1,328
2,486
2000
1,438
2,058
2001
935
1,371
2002
886
1,111
2003
1,319
1,526
2004
2,281
2,929
2005
2,920
4,981
2006
3,362
5,533
2007
2,548
3,592
2008
1,095
1,111
2009
514
381
Culture and Food
Both cities are rich in cultural and culinary offerings. Washington, DC, is known for its extensive range of international cuisine, food trucks, and upscale dining. The city is also home to countless museums and hosts a vibrant art and music scene. Baltimore boasts a lively craft beer scene and is famous for its seafood, especially crabs. The city also has a thriving arts scene with various festivals throughout the year, such as Artscape.
Sports Teams
In DC, sports fans can root for the Washington Commanders (NFL), the Washington Capitals (NHL), the Washington Wizards (NBA), and the Washington Nationals (MLB). Baltimore also has its fair share of sports teams, with the Baltimore Ravens (NFL) and the Baltimore Orioles (MLB) attracting strong local support.
Washington, DC
Baltimore, MD
