Written By Malcolm Lawson

Arnold, Maryland, is a picturesque suburban community located just a few miles from Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay. With its top-rated schools, beautiful natural surroundings, and proximity to major cities like Baltimore and Washington, D.C., Arnold has become an increasingly popular place to live. However, before you decide to make the move, it’s essential to understand the true cost of living in Arnold. In this in-depth breakdown, we’ll cover everything from housing costs to entertainment and leisure, so you can make an informed decision about whether Arnold is the right fit for you.

Housing Costs

Housing is often the most significant expense for most people, and Arnold is no exception. The median home price in Arnold is $428,600, which is higher than the national average. Renting is also relatively expensive, with the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment sitting at around $1,900 per month.

Utility Costs

Utility costs in Arnold can vary depending on factors like usage and weather. However, on average, residents can expect to pay around 7% more for utilities than the national average. This includes electricity, natural gas, water, and waste disposal services. For a typical household, this can translate to monthly utility bills of approximately $200 to $250.

Electricity and gas is provided by Baltimore Gas & Electric, BGE.

Transportation Costs

Transportation costs in Arnold include expenses like gas, car maintenance, and public transportation. Gas prices in Arnold are generally around 2% higher than the national average, with a gallon of regular gas costing roughly $3.00. Public transportation options are somewhat limited, but the nearby MARC train station in Odenton provides access to Baltimore and Washington, D.C., with fares starting at $5 per trip.

Food & Groceries

Food and grocery expenses in Arnold are relatively close to the national average, with a slight increase of about 3%. For example, a gallon of milk costs around $3.50, and a loaf of bread is approximately $2.50. A family of four can expect to spend around $800 to $1,000 per month on groceries.

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare costs in Arnold can vary depending on your insurance coverage and personal needs. However, on average, healthcare costs in the area are about 5% higher than the national average. For instance, a visit to a primary care doctor might cost you around $120, while a dentist appointment could set you back around $100.

Taxes

Maryland has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%. Property taxes in Arnold are relatively low compared to other parts of the state, with an average rate of 0.87%. Additionally, Maryland has a statewide sales tax of 6%.

Education & Childcare

If you have children or are planning to start a family, education and childcare expenses can be significant factors when considering the cost of living. Public schools in Arnold are highly-rated, but private school tuition can range from $10,000 to $25,000 per year. Childcare costs, such as daycare or preschool, can vary widely but typically range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month.

Entertainment & Leisure

Entertainment and leisure expenses in Arnold can vary depending on your interests and lifestyle. However, you can expect to pay around the national average for most activities. For instance, a movie ticket might cost you around $12, while a dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant could set you back around $50. Outdoor recreational activities are plentiful in Arnold, with many parks and nearby attractions offering free or low-cost options for enjoying the area’s natural beauty.

In conclusion, the cost of living in Arnold, Maryland, is generally higher than the national average, with housing, utilities, and healthcare being the most significant contributors to the increased costs. However, the area’s high-quality schools, beautiful surroundings, and proximity to major cities make it an attractive place to live for many families and professionals. By considering the expenses outlined in this article, you can determine whether Arnold is the right fit for your budget and lifestyle.