Arnold, MD vs Bethesda, MD

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Arnold is 28.2% cheaper than Bethesda. With a cost index of 147 vs 205, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Arnold to Bethesda should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Arnold is $2,177/month compared to $2,437/month in Bethesda — a 11% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Arnold is more affordable at $547,800 median vs $1,129,700.

Median household income in Arnold is $137,799 compared to $191,348 in Bethesda (-28%). The higher salaries in Bethesda partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Arnold spend roughly 19% of their income on rent, more than the 15.3% in Bethesda.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (57.7°F vs 59.3°F). Arnold receives more rainfall at 44" per year compared to 41.8" in Bethesda.