Cost of Living: Maryland vs Virginia
Quick answer
Virginia is cheaper for a single adult by about $368/month, mainly driven by rent.
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What this means in real life
The big differences between Maryland and Virginia come down to rent and tax. Groceries, transport, and utilities are usually within 10–15%; housing can swing the total by hundreds of dollars per month.
Maryland
Housing (rent + insurance)
$1,700
43%
Transportation
$557
14%
Groceries
$487
12%
Utilities & internet
$226
6%
Healthcare
$371
9%
Entertainment & dining
$255
7%
Misc & personal
$325
8%
Total: $3,921/mo
Virginia
Housing (rent + insurance)
$1,600
45%
Transportation
$490
14%
Groceries
$428
12%
Utilities & internet
$199
6%
Healthcare
$326
9%
Entertainment & dining
$224
6%
Misc & personal
$286
8%
Total: $3,553/mo
Deep-dive each region
Common questions
These estimates are approximate and may vary by city, taxes, rent, family size, and personal spending. Use them as a starting point, not a substitute for personalised financial or tax advice.