Factors influencing moving costs from Pittsburgh to Baltimore
What to know before moving from Pittsburgh to Baltimore
Moving from Pittsburgh to Baltimore comes with exciting new opportunities โ but also higher living costs. Since Baltimore is generally more expensive than Pittsburgh , itโs important to plan ahead and budget carefully for the change.
Check out how the two cities compare so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Pittsburgh | Baltimore | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $1,500 | $1,600 |
Average home value | $222,451 | $180,790 |
Average income (per capita) | $54,306 | $58,349 |
Cost of living (single person) | $2,129 | $2,223 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $5,011 | $5,088 |
Unemployment rate | 7.1% | 7.9% |
Sales tax | 7.0% | 6.0% |
State income tax | 3.07% | 5.75% |
- Rent prices in Baltimore are 7% higher than in Pittsburgh , which means youโll have less money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Baltimore.
Home prices in Baltimore are 18.7% lower than in Pittsburgh . - Income in Baltimore is 7.4% higher than in Pittsburgh , so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Baltimore include Social Security Administration, Laureate International Universities, and Fitch Co.
- Be sure to budget for higher bills in Baltimore, since the cost of living for a single person in Baltimore is 4.4% higher than in Pittsburgh . This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- If youโre moving your family to Baltimore, keep in mind that your living expenses could increase. The cost of living for a family in Baltimore is 1.5% higher than in Pittsburgh .
- The unemployment rate in Baltimore is 11.27% higher than in Pittsburgh .
- Youโll spend less on retail and restaurants in Baltimore, since the cityโs sales taxes in Baltimore are 14.29% lower than in Pittsburgh .
- State income taxes in Baltimore are 87.30% higher than in Pittsburgh .
To put this in perspective, you would need around $3,132.46 in Baltimore to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Pittsburgh .
How life is different in Pittsburgh vs. Baltimore
Baltimore | Pittsburgh | |
---|---|---|
Population | 585,708 | 303,255 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 8 | 8 |
Walkability score | 64 | 62 |
Bike friendliness score | 53 | 55 |
Crime Index | 72.72 | 37.74 |
Safety Index | 27.28 | 62.26 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Baltimore's population is about 93% greater than Pittsburgh .
- Baltimore's public transportation has a similar score to Pittsburgh .
- Baltimore and Pittsburgh are similarily walkable.
- Both Baltimore and Pittsburgh have the same bike-friendliness score of 55 out of 100, meaning Baltimore is about as safe for cyclists as Pittsburgh . Typically, cities that have scores of 20 or higher are seen as reasonably safe, though the higher the score, the more safely accessible a city is for bicycling.
- Baltimore's crime rate is higher than Pittsburgh with a score of 72.72 compared to Pittsburgh 's 37.74. This means that Baltimore neighborhoods are safer than 72.72% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Pittsburgh neighborhoods are safer than 37.74%.
- Baltimore is considered to be less safe than Pittsburgh with a score of 27.28 vs Pittsburgh 's 62.26.
- Air quality in Baltimore is good, and in Pittsburgh it's good.
Other things to consider for your Pittsburgh vs. Baltimore move
- Weather: Baltimore has long hot summers, cool winters, and a summer peak to annual precipitation. Spring and autumn are warm, with spring being the wettest season in terms of the number of precipitation days.
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: Make sure to arrange elevator access in advance if your building requires reservations for moving.
- Truck parking permits: Make sure to look into local parking regulationsโsome areas require permits for large moving trucks.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Maryland, make sure the moving company youโll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if youโre dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Ensure the company you choose is licensed to handle your move.
- State regulator: You can verify a Maryland moving company\โs license by visiting the state'spublic utilities commission
- Moving permits: You wonโt need a moving permit in Maryland, though it\โs smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: To avoid missing any mail, we recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. You can choose your official move date to make sure everything gets forwarded properly toBaltimore Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: The amount and type of insurance movers must have depends on state regulations.In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Let our moving checklist guide you through the process and help ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
Where to live in Baltimore
Now that youโve chosen "America's Comeback Cit" as your next home, here are a few of the best neighborhoods in Baltimore to check out.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Federal Hill
- Fells Point
- Mid-Town Belvedere
- Mount Vernon
- South Baltimore
Best neighborhoods for families
- Catonsville
- Mount Washington
- Pikesville
- Roland Park
- Towson
Things to do in Baltimore
Now that you've made the move to Maryland, itโs the perfect time to explore Baltimore. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโs something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Youโll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Baltimore, such as the The Walters Art Museum, American Visionary Art Museum, Baltimore Museum of Art, B&O Railroad Museum, and Baltimore Museum of Industry.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Federal Hill Park, Patterson Park, Canton Waterfront Park, and Leakin Park โ along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
- Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Baltimore Orioles (MLB) and Baltimore Ravens (NFL) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Pittsburgh to Baltimore?
The best time to move from Pittsburgh to Baltimore is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Pittsburgh .
When is the cheapest time to move from Pittsburgh to Baltimore?
Because most people are moving from Pittsburgh to Baltimore in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Pittsburgh to Baltimore take?
The 247-mile move from Pittsburgh , PA, to Baltimore, MD, takes one to two days. Some Pittsburgh movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Baltimore.