Cambridge, MD Cost of Living & Utility Guide 2026

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Cambridge, MD Utility & Living Guide

Cambridge is a city in Dorchester County, Maryland, United States. The population was 13,096 at the 2020 census. It is the county seat of Dorchester County and the county's largest municipality. Cambridge is the fourth most populous city in Maryland's Eastern Shore region, after Salisbury, Elkton an

Last updated: June 26, 2026

Total Utilities$280/mo

1BR Rent$1100/mo

Sales Tax6%

COL Index105 (+5% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$240,000

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🔌 Utilities

🏠 Housing

📊 Cost of Living

💰 Taxes

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🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Choptank Electric Cooperative

🔥 Gas

—

N/A - Electric only

💧 Water

$50/mo

City of Cambridge Water Department

🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

City of Cambridge Public Works

📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$280/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom	$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms	$1900/mo
Median Home Price	$240,000
Property Tax Rate	1.15%
Avg Childcare/mo	$900

The housing market in Cambridge is relatively affordable, with a mix of historic homes, new constructions, and waterfront properties. Rentals are also available, including apartments and single-family homes. However, the market can be competitive, especially for waterfront properties.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$900

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	6%
Property Tax Rate	1.15%
<p>State 6% + No County tax + No City tax</p>

Maryland state income tax ranges from 4.75% to 5.75%, with a state standard deduction of $2,300 for single filers and $4,600 for joint filers

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

7/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

6.2/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$900/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 including healthcare, education, and tourism

Top Local Concerns

Poverty, education, public safety

🚌 Transit for Families

Cambridge has a limited public transportation system, but the downtown area is relatively walkable and stroller-friendly, with wide sidewalks and crosswalks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Harriet Tubman Museum
🎯
Cambridge Creek Winery
🎯
Sailwinds Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The historic district, including the areas around High Street and Poplar Street, offer a charming and family-friendly atmosphere, with easy access to parks, shops, and restaurants. Other popular neighborhoods include the waterfront area and the suburban developments outside the city center.

Household Budget Calculator

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

📰 Live Local News

Cambridge has regulations regarding zoning, historic district preservation, and environmental protection, including a ban on single-use plastic bags

Financial Tools

Calculators

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📊 Cambridge — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Cambridge tend to be higher in the summer due to air conditioning usage, with average electricity bills increasing by 20-30% during the peak summer months. In contrast, winter utility bills are relatively lower, with average costs decreasing by 10-20% due to milder winters.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The property tax millage rate in Cambridge is 1.15, with no local surtaxes. The city's tax rate is relatively low compared to other areas in Maryland.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 8/10: Cambridge has wide sidewalks, crosswalks, and a relatively flat terrain, making it easy to navigate with a stroller. However, some areas of the city may lack elevator access in older buildings, and park access can be limited in certain neighborhoods.

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