Kensington, MD Utility & Living Guide

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Kensington, MD Utility & Living Guide

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

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$350/mo
1BR Rent$1500/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$430,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Kensington
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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

County-provided waste collection
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1500/mo
2 Bedrooms$2000/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$430,000
Property Tax Rate1.15%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

Kensington’s housing market is highly competitive, with a mix of older homes and new construction. The town has a strong sense of community, with many residents actively involved in local events and initiatives. Home prices have been steadily increasing in recent years due to the town’s desirable location and amenities.

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 Rate1.15%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

Maryland has a progressive state income tax with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%, and Kensington 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
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in biotech, healthcare, and technology
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, parking, and affordable housing
🚌 Transit for Families

Kensington has a relatively walkable downtown area and accessible public transportation options, including the Metrorail and bus systems

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Wheaton Regional Park
  • 🎯
    Brookside Gardens
  • 🎯
    and the National Zoo

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Kensington Heights and Parkwood, are popular with families due to their proximity to schools, parks, and amenities. These areas offer a mix of older and newer homes, with a range of prices and styles to suit different budgets and preferences

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Kensington has strict zoning laws and historic district regulations to preserve the town’s character and charm

Kensington is experiencing a surge in new businesses and developments, driven by its proximity to Washington, D.C. and the growing demand for housing and amenities. The town is also investing in infrastructure improvements, including upgraded roads and public transportation

Financial Tools

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📊 Kensington — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months bring higher electricity bills due to air conditioning usage, while winter months see increased gas bills for heating. Residents can expect to pay around 10-20% more for utilities during these peak seasons

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The 20895 ZIP code has a property tax millage rate of 1.15, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and elevators in public transportation hubs, but some areas have limited stroller-friendly infrastructure

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