Arbutus, MD vs Towson, MD

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Arbutus is 22.7% cheaper than Towson. With a cost index of 98 vs 127, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Arbutus to Towson should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Arbutus is $1,238/month compared to $1,784/month in Towson — a 31% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Arbutus is more affordable at $296,800 median vs $445,100.

Median household income in Arbutus is $97,215 compared to $100,481 in Towson (-3.3%). Towson does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Arbutus spend roughly 15.3% of their income on rent, less than the 21.3% in Towson.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (59.1°F vs 59.1°F). Towson receives more rainfall at 43.7" per year compared to 43.7" in Arbutus.