Forest Hill, MD Utility & Living Guide

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Forest Hill, MD Utility & Living Guide

Living in Forest Hill, MD offers a serene and peaceful environment with easy access to nearby cities and amenities.

Last updated: October 9, 2026
Total Utilities$350/mo
1BR Rent$1100/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index108 (+8% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$340,000
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🌤️ Live Weather — Forest Hill
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The current financial trend in Forest Hill is a growing demand for housing and commercial development, driven by its proximity to Baltimore and other major cities. However, this growth also poses challenges for infrastructure and traffic management.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Forest Hill
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

BGE
🔥 Gas

$60/mo

BGE
💧 Water

$50/mo

Harford County Department of Public Works
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Harford County Department of Public Works
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1100/mo
2 Bedrooms$1400/mo
3 Bedrooms$2000/mo
Median Home Price$340,000
Property Tax Rate1.18%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

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

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

108

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+8% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

102

Healthcare

101

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate1.18%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

55

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 Republican and Democratic voters
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries in healthcare, education, and retail
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, education, public safety
🚌 Transit for Families

Forest Hill has limited public transportation options, but the area is relatively stroller-friendly with sidewalks and crosswalks

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Harford County Public Library
  • 🎯
    Forest Hill Recreation Council
  • 🎯
    Anita C. Leight Estuary Center

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Forest Hill include the historic district, with its tree-lined streets and older homes, as well as newer developments with amenities like parks and playgrounds. The area is also close to several highly-rated schools.

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📊 Forest Hill — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Forest Hill 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 the winter, heating costs are relatively moderate, with natural gas prices averaging around $1.50 per therm.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 21050 has a property tax millage rate of 1.18, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, but limited elevator access in some public buildings

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