Average Rent in California, MD↑ Rents rising 4.3% YoY🔺 2nd priciest in MD
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually
Market Overview
California, MD has rental prices ranging from $1,493/month to $2,818/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,624/month — 16% above the national average of $1,400/month.
How California Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,831/month, California ranks #2 most expensive of the 12 cities tracked in Maryland — pricier than 96% of all US cities in our data.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in California, MD have risen by $76/month (4.3%) over the past year, from $1,755 to $1,831. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in California, MD is $401,539, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 18.3. With a break-even horizon of approximately 18 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is California, MD Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in MDlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore | $1,407 | $1,604 | $1,965 | $2,529 | — |
| Hagerstown | $852 | $947 | $1,242 | $1,711 | — |
| Salisbury | $1,129 | $1,136 | $1,491 | $1,969 | — |
| Cumberland | $655 | $747 | $933 | $1,226 | — |
| Worcester County | $1,109 | $1,150 | $1,276 | $1,788 | — |
| Talbot County | $1,210 | $1,257 | $1,392 | $1,951 | — |
Rent or Buy in California?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real California data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $401,539 home at 7% rate
Living in California
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
Moving Cost Estimator
Estimate your moving costs based on FMCSA public mover data
Select your origin state to see the estimate
Frequently Asked Questions
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⚖️Rent vs Buy in CaliforniaIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
🗺️All Cities in MDSee how California ranks statewide
⚖️Compare CaliforniaSide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MD Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections