Potomac, MD Utility & Living Guide

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Potomac, MD Utility & Living Guide

Living in Potomac, MD offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and access to urban amenities

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$350/mo
1BR Rent$1800/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index146 (+46% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$640,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Potomac
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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

Potomac Disposal
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead $350/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1800/mo
2 Bedrooms$2200/mo
3 Bedrooms$2800/mo
Median Home Price$640,000
Property Tax Rate1.04%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Potomac is highly competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes, and a strong demand for properties with good schools and convenient access to DC. The area is known for its expensive homes, with many properties selling for over $1 million. However, there are also more affordable options available, including condos and townhouses.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+46% above national average

Groceries

108

Transportation

94

Healthcare

102

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate1.04%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

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

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

8.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in tech, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Traffic, schools, property taxes
🚌 Transit for Families

The public transit system in Potomac is limited, but there are some stroller-friendly options, including the Ride On bus system and the Metro subway

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Great Falls Park
  • 🎯
    Potomac River
  • 🎯
    Cabin John Regional Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The best neighborhoods for families in Potomac include the areas around Falls Road, River Road, and the Potomac Village, which offer a mix of good schools, parks, and community amenities. These neighborhoods are also close to DC and have easy access to public transportation.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

The town has strict zoning laws and regulations to preserve its rural character and protect the environment

The current financial trends in Potomac show a strong and stable economy, with a high demand for housing and a growing number of businesses and startups. However, the area is also experiencing a rise in costs of living, with increasing prices for housing, transportation, and utilities.

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📊 Potomac — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

In the summer, utility costs in Potomac can be high due to the need for air conditioning, with average electricity bills increasing by 20-30%. In the winter, heating costs can also be significant, with average gas bills increasing by 10-20%.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 20854 has a property tax millage rate of 1.04, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8, with wide sidewalks, many parks, and easy access to public transportation, but some areas can be hilly and challenging to navigate with a stroller

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