Lisbon, MD Cost of Living & Utility Guide 2026

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Lisbon, MD Utility & Living Guide

Living in Lisbon, MD offers a unique blend of rural charm and convenient access to nearby cities, making it an attractive option for those looking for a peaceful retreat.

Last updated: October 3, 2026

Total Utilities$350/mo

1BR Rent$1300/mo

Sales Tax6%

COL Index110 (+10% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$380,000

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The current financial trends in Lisbon indicate a growing demand for housing and commercial development, driven by the area's proximity to major employment centers and its natural beauty. However, this growth also poses challenges for infrastructure and services, which may impact residents' quality of life.

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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Lisbon

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🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

👨‍👩‍👧 Families

🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

BGE

🔥 Gas

$60/mo

BGE

💧 Water

$50/mo

Howard County Department of Public Works

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services

📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1300/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1700/mo
3 Bedrooms	$2300/mo
Median Home Price	$380,000
Property Tax Rate	1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo	$1200

The housing market in Lisbon is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. The area is popular with families and commuters, and prices are generally higher than in surrounding rural areas. Rentals are also available, but may be limited in terms of availability and affordability.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	6%
Property Tax Rate	1.1%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

Maryland state income tax rates range from 2% to 5.75%, with a top marginal rate of 5.75% applying to income above $250,000.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

7/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+2% (growing)

Political Climate

Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal views represented in the community

Business Momentum

Moderate, with key industries including agriculture, healthcare, and small business

Top Local Concerns

Traffic, development, public safety

🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit in Lisbon is limited, but the area is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some sidewalks and bike lanes available.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Patapsco Valley State Park
🎯
Howard County Fairgrounds
🎯
Robinson Nature Center

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around the town center is popular with families, offering a mix of older and newer homes, as well as access to local amenities like parks and schools. The nearby communities of Woodbine and Glenwood also offer a range of housing options and a strong sense of community.

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

📰 Live Local News

Lisbon has zoning regulations and building codes in place to preserve the area’s rural character and ensure public safety.

Financial Tools

Calculators

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📊 Lisbon — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Lisbon tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating demands, with average bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see a smaller increase in utility costs due to air conditioning usage, with average bills rising by 10-20% from June to August.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 21797 has a property tax millage rate of 1.04, with no local surtaxes applicable.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, due to the area's limited sidewalks and bike lanes, although efforts are being made to improve pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure in the town center and surrounding neighborhoods.

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