Riverdale, MD Utility & Living Guide

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Riverdale, MD Utility & Living Guide

Living in Riverdale, MD offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities just outside of Washington D.C.

Last updated: October 7, 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 — Riverdale
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The current financial trends in Riverdale indicate a strong and growing economy, with new businesses and developments emerging in the area. However, this growth also brings challenges, such as increased traffic and housing costs.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Riverdale
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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 (WSSC)
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Prince George's County Department of Environmental Resources
📶 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 Rate1.25%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Riverdale is competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes, and a range of prices to suit different budgets. Rentals are also available, but can be pricey. The area is popular with families and young professionals.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

100

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate1.25%
<p>State 6.0% + County 0.0% + City 0.0%</p>

Maryland has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 2.0% to 5.75%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

55

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.0/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+5% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries including healthcare, education, and technology
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, affordable housing, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

The public transit system in Riverdale is relatively stroller-friendly, with accessible buses and trains, but some areas may require more walking or transferring

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    College Park Aviation Museum
  • 🎯
    Prince George's County Sports and Learning Complex
  • 🎯
    Bladensburg Waterfront Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Riverdale include the historic district, with its charming homes and tree-lined streets, and the areas around the University of Maryland, with their vibrant atmosphere and amenities. The town also has several parks and playgrounds, making it a great place to raise kids.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Riverdale has regulations in place to protect the environment and preserve the character of the community, including rules on zoning, noise, and waste disposal

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📊 Riverdale — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In the summer, utility costs in Riverdale can spike due to the high demand for air conditioning, while in the winter, heating costs can increase. However, the area's mild climate means that these fluctuations are relatively moderate compared to other parts of the country.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 20737 has a property tax millage rate of 1.15, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, but some areas may lack elevator access in transit or have limited family infrastructure

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