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Damascus, MD vs Potomac, MD

130
Damascus
Maryland
VS
-37.8%
208
Potomac
Maryland

The cost of living difference between Damascus, MD and Potomac, MD is dramatic. Damascus is 37.8% cheaper than Potomac, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Damascus has a cost index of 130 while Potomac sits at 208, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Damascus is $1,665/month compared to $2,616/month in Potomac — a 36% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Damascus is more affordable at $496,500 median vs $1,105,900.

Median household income in Damascus is $153,994 compared to $239,205 in Potomac (-35.6%). The higher salaries in Potomac partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Damascus spend roughly 13% of their income on rent, less than the 13.1% in Potomac.

Climate-wise, Potomac is notably warmer with an average of 59.3°F compared to 55.7°F in Damascus. Damascus receives more rainfall at 43.2" per year compared to 41.8" in Potomac.

Income & Cost

Cost of Living Index
Damascus
130
38% cheaper
Potomac
208
Median Household Income
Damascus
$153,994
Potomac
$239,205
36% higher

Housing

Median Rent
Damascus
$1,665
36% cheaper
Potomac
$2,616
Median Home Value
Damascus
$496,500
55% cheaper
Potomac
$1,105,900
Population
Damascus
16,864
Potomac
46,230

Salary Equivalency Calculator

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Everyday Prices

BLS Average Prices by metro area

Gasoline (regular)
Damascus $3.26
Potomac $3.26
US $3.07
🥚
Eggs (grade A, large)
Damascus $2.66
Potomac $2.66
US $2.50
🥛
Milk (whole)
Damascus $4.28
Potomac $4.28
US $4.03
🍞
Bread (white)
Damascus $1.97
Potomac $1.97
US $1.85
🍗
Chicken breast
Damascus $4.41
Potomac $4.41
US $4.14
Electricity
Damascus $0.20
Potomac $0.20
US $0.19

Climate

NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)

Avg Temp
Damascus 55.7°F
Potomac 59.3°F
Summer High
Damascus 88°F
Potomac 90°F
Winter Low
Damascus 25°F
Potomac 30°F
Rainfall
Damascus 43.2"
Potomac 41.8"
Rainy Days
Damascus 121d
Potomac 118d