Highland, MD Utility & Living Guide

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Highland, MD Utility & Living Guide

Living in Highland, MD offers a unique blend of rural charm and suburban convenience, with easy access to major cities like Baltimore and Washington D.C.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$290/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$380,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Highland
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

BGE
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Howard County Department of Public Works
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Republic Services
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $290/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms$2400/mo
Median Home Price$380,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Highland is competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes, and a strong demand for rentals. The area is popular with families and commuters, and home prices have been steadily increasing in recent years. 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

102

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 state income tax, with rates ranging from 4.75% to 5.75%, and Highland residents are also subject to federal income tax

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

8/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+5% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple description, with a mix of conservative and liberal voters
Business Momentum
High, with key industries including technology, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, school overcrowding, affordable housing
🚌 Transit for Families

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

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Clark's Elioak Farm
  • 🎯
    Robinson Nature Center
  • 🎯
    Centennial Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Highland include the historic district, with its charming older homes and tree-lined streets, as well as the newer developments near the schools, which offer more modern amenities and a sense of community. However, these areas can be quite expensive, and families on a budget may want to consider other options, such as the nearby town of Columbia.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Howard County has strict zoning laws and regulations, and residents are required to obtain permits for certain home improvements and renovations

The current financial trend in Highland is a growing demand for housing and commercial development, driven by the area's proximity to major cities and its highly-rated school system. However, this growth has also led to increased traffic and congestion, and residents are concerned about the impact on the area's quality of life.

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📊 Highland — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Highland tend to be higher in the summer, when air conditioning is needed, and lower in the winter, when heating costs are reduced. However, the area's mild climate means that extreme temperature fluctuations are rare, and residents can expect to pay relatively consistent utility bills throughout the year.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 20777 has a property tax millage rate of 1.1, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

Score 7/10, with wide sidewalks and accessible parks, but limited public transit options and some areas with heavy traffic

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