Damascus, MD Utility & Living Guide

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Damascus, MD Utility & Living Guide

Damascus is a census-designated place and an unincorporated area in Montgomery County, Maryland, United States. In the early 20th century, there existed an incorporated municipality lasting a quarter century. It had a population of 17,224 as of the 2020 census. Damascus is located at the intersectio

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$350/mo
1BR Rent$1500/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$380,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Damascus
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Damascus
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Pepco
🔥 Gas

$60/mo

Washington Gas
💧 Water

$50/mo

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1500/mo
2 Bedrooms$1900/mo
3 Bedrooms$2500/mo
Median Home Price$380,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Damascus is competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes, and a growing demand for rentals. The area is popular with families and commuters, and home prices have been steadily increasing. However, there are still affordable options available, particularly for those willing to consider older homes or townhouses.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

95

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

Maryland has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of Democratic and Republican voters
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in tech, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, schools, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

The public transit system in Damascus is limited, but the area is relatively stroller-friendly, with wide sidewalks and accessible parks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Seneca Creek State Park
  • 🎯
    Damascus Regional Park
  • 🎯
    Montgomery County Fairgrounds

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Damascus include the historic district, with its tree-lined streets and older homes, as well as the newer developments near the town center, which offer more modern amenities. The area is also home to several highly-rated schools, making it a popular choice for families with children.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Damascus based on your household profile.

📰 Live Local News

Damascus has regulations in place to preserve its rural character, including restrictions on development and zoning ordinances

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📊 Damascus — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Damascus tend to be higher in the summer, due to the need for air conditioning, and lower in the winter, when heating costs are relatively low. However, the area's mild climate means that utility costs remain relatively stable throughout the year, with average monthly costs ranging from $300 to $400.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 20872 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, making it easy to get around with a stroller, although some areas may have limited elevator access in transit

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