Gaithersburg, MD vs Rockville, MD

Gaithersburg is moderately more affordable than Rockville, with a 13.4% lower cost of living index. Gaithersburg scores 139 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 Gaithersburg is $2,008/month compared to $2,244/month in Rockville — a 11% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Gaithersburg is more affordable at $484,500 median vs $658,300.

Median household income in Gaithersburg is $107,496 compared to $122,384 in Rockville (-12.2%). The higher salaries in Rockville partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Gaithersburg spend roughly 22.4% of their income on rent, more than the 22% in Rockville.

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