Takoma Park, MD Utility & Living Guide

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Takoma Park, MD Utility & Living Guide

Living in Takoma Park, 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 Index146 (+20% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$440,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Takoma Park
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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

City of Takoma Park Department of Public Works
📶 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$440,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Takoma Park is highly competitive, with a mix of older and newer homes, and a strong demand for rentals. The city has a range of housing options, from apartments to single-family homes. However, affordability can be a challenge, especially for first-time homebuyers.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

146

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+20% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

90

Healthcare

95

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%. Takoma Park residents are also subject to federal income tax.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+10% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in healthcare, education, and technology
Top Local Concerns
Affordability, traffic, and environmental sustainability
🚌 Transit for Families

The city has a relatively stroller-friendly public transit system, with accessible buses and a nearby Metro station.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Takoma Park Library
  • 🎯
    Sligo Creek Park
  • 🎯
    and the Takoma Park Farmers Market

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The neighborhoods of Takoma Park are generally considered safe and family-friendly, with popular areas including the historic district, the area around Sligo Creek Park, and the neighborhoods near the Takoma Park Metro station.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

The City of Takoma Park has regulations in place to promote sustainability, including requirements for recycling and energy-efficient building practices.

Takoma Park is experiencing a surge in new businesses and developments, driven by its proximity to Washington, D.C. and its highly educated workforce. However, this growth is also putting pressure on the city's housing market and infrastructure.

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📊 Takoma Park — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Takoma Park tend to be higher in the summer due to air conditioning usage, with average electricity bills increasing by 20-30% during the summer months. In contrast, winter heating costs are relatively moderate, with natural gas prices averaging around $1.50 per therm.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 20912 has a property tax millage rate of 1.04%, with no local surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with wide sidewalks, accessible parks, and relatively flat terrain, making it easy to navigate with a stroller. However, some areas have limited elevator access in transit, which can be a challenge for families with strollers.

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