Ellicott City, MD vs Rockville, MD

Ellicott City is moderately more affordable than Rockville, with a 6.7% lower cost of living index. Ellicott City scores 150 compared to 160 for Rockville, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Rockville can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Ellicott City is $2,001/month compared to $2,244/month in Rockville — a 11% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Ellicott City is more affordable at $644,300 median vs $658,300.

Median household income in Ellicott City is $157,891 compared to $122,384 in Rockville (+29%). Ellicott City offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Ellicott City spend roughly 15.2% of their income on rent, less than the 22% in Rockville.

Climate-wise, Rockville is notably warmer with an average of 59.3°F compared to 56.2°F in Ellicott City. Ellicott City receives more rainfall at 45" per year compared to 41.8" in Rockville.