Lanham, MD Cost of Living & Utility Guide 2026

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Lanham, MD Utility & Living Guide

Living in Lanham, MD offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and access to urban amenities, making it an attractive option for families and professionals alike.

Last updated: October 2, 2026

Total Utilities$350/mo

1BR Rent$1400/mo

Sales Tax6%

COL Index110 (+10% above national average)

Family Score7/10

Median Home$380,000

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The current financial trends in Lanham indicate a growing demand for housing and a strong job market, driven by the area's proximity to Washington, D.C. and the presence of major employers in the tech and healthcare industries. However, this growth also brings challenges, such as increasing traffic and congestion, which are being addressed through infrastructure improvements and transportation initiatives.

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🔌 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	$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms	$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms	$2400/mo
Median Home Price	$380,000
Property Tax Rate	1.25%
Avg Childcare/mo	$1200

The housing market in Lanham is relatively stable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. However, prices have been increasing in recent years due to the area’s proximity to Washington, D.C. and the growing demand for housing. Renters can find a range of options, from apartments to single-family homes.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100

vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

100

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax	6%
Property Tax Rate	1.25%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

Maryland has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 4.75% to 5.75%. Residents of Lanham are also subject to federal income tax.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score

7/10

Safety Index

Higher = safer

School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg

Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend

+5% (growing)

Political Climate

Purple description, with a mix of Democratic and Republican voters

Business Momentum

High, with key industries in tech, healthcare, and education

Top Local Concerns

Traffic, public safety, education

🚌 Transit for Families

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

🎡 Top Kid Attractions

🎯
Six Flags America
🎯
National Harbor
🎯
Prince George's County Sports and Learning Complex

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Lanham include the areas around DuVal High School and the Lanham-Seabrook area, which offer a range of housing options, good schools, and community amenities. The Goddard area is also popular, with its mix of older and newer homes and easy access to parks and recreation facilities.

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

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Lanham has regulations in place regarding zoning, noise ordinances, and property maintenance. Residents are also required to obtain permits for certain home improvements and renovations.

Financial Tools

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📊 Lanham — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Lanham tend to be higher in the summer months due to air conditioning usage, with average electric bills increasing by 20-30% between June and August. In the winter, heating costs can also be significant, with average gas bills increasing by 10-20% between December and February.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 20706 has a property tax millage rate of 1.15, with no local surtaxes. However, residents may be subject to additional taxes or fees for services such as trash collection and water usage.

👶 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, such as changing tables or nursing rooms.

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