Quick answer
🟡 Yes, but tightly. A data analyst in Baltimore earns roughly $110,154/yr (~$5,930/mo take-home) and a 1BR costs $1,550/mo — that's 26% of take-home on rent. The standard is 30% or less.
MD · 2026
Can a Data Analyst Afford to Live in Baltimore?
Using local salary estimates and Baltimore's actual cost of living — rent, taxes, utilities, and groceries — here's the real monthly picture for a data analyst in Baltimore, MD in 2026.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Gross monthly salary
$110,154/yr local estimate
$9,180
Taxes (federal + state + FICA)
Up to 5.75% state income tax
-$3,250
Monthly take-home
After all taxes
$5,930
1BR rent
26% of take-home
-$1,550
Utilities
Electric, gas, internet avg
-$155
Groceries
Single-person estimate
-$375
Transport
Car or transit average
-$350
Left for everything else
Dining, clothing, fun, savings
$3,500
At a 40% savings rate on discretionary income, a data analyst in Baltimore could save roughly $16,800/year after covering all essentials.
What Does 26% Rent Burden Mean?
The standard rule of thumb is to spend no more than 30% of gross income on rent. At 26% of take-home pay, a data analyst in Baltimore is near the limit. Livable, but there's little buffer for emergencies or lifestyle upgrades.
These numbers use a local salary estimate of $110,154/yr — adjusted from the national Data Analyst median of $103,500/yr based on Baltimore's cost of living index. Actual salaries vary by employer, experience, and specialization.
Best Neighborhoods in Baltimore for a Data Analyst
Based on walkability, rent levels, and quality of life — not just lowest price.
Canton
Rowhouses, waterfront park, best restaurants, safest desirable neighborhood; 1BR $1,600–2,100
Fells Point
Cobblestone waterfront, bars, maritime history, young professionals; 1BR $1,500–2,000
Federal Hill
Best Inner Harbor views, walkable commercial strip, families; 1BR $1,500–2,000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Data Analyst in Baltimore?
A Data Analyst in Baltimore earns approximately $110,154 per year, based on the national BLS median of $103,500/yr adjusted for Baltimore's cost of living. Actual pay varies by employer, experience, and specialization.
Is Baltimore affordable for a data analyst in 2026?
Manageable. Rent takes 26% of take-home, which is right at the limit. A data analyst can make it work but should keep other expenses lean.
How much take-home pay does a Data Analyst get in Baltimore?
After federal taxes, Up to 5.75% state income tax, and FICA, a Data Analyst earning $110,154/yr takes home roughly $5,930/month in Baltimore.
What is the rent-to-income ratio for a Data Analyst in Baltimore?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Baltimore costs a median of $1,550/month. On a Data Analyst salary, that's 26% of monthly take-home pay. Financial experts recommend keeping this below 30%.