Baltimore is a city of contradictions—gritty but charming, historic but evolving, full of world-class seafood but somehow still home to people who prefer fast food crab cakes. It’s a great place to live, if you don’t mind a higher rent and traffic that seems designed by someone who actively hates drivers. Luckily, just beyond the city, a number of affordable Baltimore suburbs offer lower prices, more space, and a much lower chance of getting into a shouting match with a stranger over parking. Here’s a look at six of the top affordable Baltimore suburbs for renters in 2025.
Baltimore’s housing market at a glance
The housing costs in Charm City can add up quickly, but several nearby suburbs offer more affordable alternatives. Here’s a quick look at Baltimore’s current housing prices before diving into some of the best budget-friendly burbs.
| Average 1-bedroom rent in Baltimore | $1,547 |
| Average 2-bedroom rent in Baltimore | $1,748 |
| Median home price in Baltimore | $220,000 |
1. Essex
Essex is where you go when you want to live near the Chesapeake Bay without having to sell off the family heirlooms.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,061
- Distance from Baltimore: 10 miles east
- Drive time to Baltimore: About 20 minutes
At $1,061 on average for a 1-bedroom, Essex is the most affordable option on this list, and it comes with some serious perks. Rocky Point Beach and Park is ideal for swimming, boating, and picnics with the kind of scenic water views that make you feel like you’re on vacation. Rocky Point Golf Course is the place to go when you need to hit the links and blow off some steam. Essex has that laid-back, near-the-water feel without the sky-high costs of other waterfront towns, making it a solid pick for budget-conscious renters.
2. Dundalk
Dundalk is where industrial history meets unexpected natural beauty.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,112
- Distance from Baltimore: 7 miles southeast
- Drive time to Baltimore: About 15 minutes
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,112, Dundalk lets you save money while still being close to everything. North Point State Park is a local gem with trails, fishing piers, and stunning views. Fort Howard Park is another must-visit, a waterfront site that played a role in the War of 1812. If you’re into local history, the Dundalk Heritage Museum dives into the area’s industrial past, reminding you that before it was an affordable Baltimore suburb, Dundalk was where things actually got built.
3. Middle River
Middle River is perfect for people who love planes, boats, and not overpaying for rent.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,280
- Distance from Baltimore: 12 miles northeast
- Drive time to Baltimore: About 25 minutes
At $1,280 on average for a 1-bedroom, Middle River offers an affordable escape with plenty to do. The Glenn L. Martin Maryland Aviation Museum is a must-see for aviation fans, featuring historic aircraft and exhibits that remind you how terrifying early airplanes actually were. Miami Beach Park (not that Miami Beach) provides a surprising little oasis with waterfront views, kayaking, and plenty of space to stretch out and relax under the shining Maryland sun. And for those who prefer their nature with a side of education, Marshy Point Nature Center has trails through wetlands and forests.
4. Randallstown
Randallstown is where you go when you want the benefits of suburbia but also need to know there’s a forest nearby.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,384
- Distance from Baltimore: 15 miles northwest
- Drive time to Baltimore: About 30 minutes
With an average rent of $1,384 for a 1-bedroom, Randallstown gives you room to breathe—literally. With a smattering of historic homes and a few new townhomes coming up, renters here have options. Liberty Reservoir is a popular destination for fishing, hiking, and occasionally wondering if you could live off the grid. The Randallstown Community Center keeps things lively with events and community get-togethers, proving that life in the burbs doesn’t have to be boring.
5. Edgewood
Edgewood is the suburb for people who like a little bit of everything—waterfront access, history, and trails where you can pretend you’re athletic.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,487
- Distance from Baltimore: 25 miles northeast
- Drive time to Baltimore: About 35 minutes
With 1-bedroom apartments averaging $1,487, Edgewood is packed with things to do. Flying Point Park has boat ramps, fishing areas, and picnic spots where you can sit back and question why you don’t spend more time outside. For a more laid back experience, Harford Glen Park provides environmental education programs, scenic trails, and the perfect excuse to tell people you’re “getting into hiking” (whether or not you ever actually go).
6. Bel Air
Bel Air is for people who want a touch of small-town charm without giving up modern conveniences.
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,498
- Distance from Baltimore: 30 miles north
- Drive time to Baltimore: About 40 minutes
With an average 1-bedroom rent of $1,498, Bel Air is the last affordable Baltimore suburb on this list. The Liriodendron Mansion hosts events and tours, offering a glimpse into the kind of house most will never be able to afford. The Ma & Pa Heritage Trail is a scenic path ideal for running, biking, or introspectively staring into the distance. And for those who love supporting local artists, the Harford Artists Gallery showcases work from regional creatives in every medium imaginable. Bel Air is a little bit historic, a little bit artsy, and just trendy enough to feel like you’re somewhere interesting—without the constant stress of city living.
Find the best affordable Baltimore suburb for you
The most affordable Baltimore suburbs provide a range of choices for renters, whether you’re looking for waterfront views in Essex, historic charm in Dundalk, or an artsy escape in Bel Air. If you want to save on rent while still having access to the city, these towns provide plenty of options. The hardest part? Figuring out which one feels most like home.
Affordability is based on whether a suburb’s one-bedroom rent was less than Baltimore’s average rent and under 35 miles from downtown Baltimore. Average rental data from Baltimore rental market trends in February, 2025. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
