Cost of Living in Rockville, Maryland

The cost of living in Rockville, Maryland, reflects the many conveniences and perks of living in this suburban area close to Washington, D.C. Many people choose to live here to enjoy suburban small-town life, while only being a short Metro ride away from the big city. Whether you want to rent an apartment close to the local nature preserve or you want a home within walking distance to the Metro station, you can find what you want in Rockville. Take a closer look at the Rockville, Maryland cost of living. 

What is the cost of living in Rockville, Maryland?

The cost of living in Rockville, Maryland, reflects the many conveniences and perks of living in this suburban area close to Washington, D.C. Many people Since Rockville is in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, the Rockville, Maryland, cost of living can be quite high. According to BestPlaces, the cost of living in Rockville is 43.6% higher than the national average and 30.6% higher than the average for the state of Maryland. Nearly all living expenses, including groceries, utilities, housing, and transportation, are above both the state and national averages. Health care costs are 7.4% below the national average, but still 3.5% higher than the state average.

To give you some perspective, explore some average costs of miscellaneous items in Rockville:

• A single meal at an inexpensive restaurant will cost an average of $15
• A monthly fee for a local gym will cost about $49
• A gallon of gasoline averages $4.253 compared to the national average of $4.316 as of March 15, 2022.

Remember, the cost of living in Rockville will vary depending on your job salary, lifestyle choices, where you rent an apartment, and your family size. Think about these different factors before choosing a place to rent.

How expensive is an apartment in Rockville?

The average rent in Rockville, Maryland, is $1,911 for a studio apartment, $2,030 for a one-bedroom apartment, and $2,369 for a two-bedroom apartment. Apartment costs will fluctuate depending on the neighborhood you choose and its proximity to the downtown area. Rockville has two Metro stops, and apartments conveniently located near these stops cost a lot more.

The average price for a one-bedroom apartment in East Rockville is $1,690, making this the most affordable part of the city. In Central Rockville, you can expect an average of $1,790 for a one-bedroom apartment, while a one-bedroom averages $1,974 in West Rockville.

Remember, when renting an apartment, you have more costs than rent alone. Be sure to research parking fees, HOA fees, and renter’s insurance before signing a lease.

How do I find cheap apartments in Rockville?

If you’re concerned about keeping your cost of living in Rockville as low as possible, it helps to think carefully about what you really want in an apartment so you’re not paying for amenities you won’t use. The best way to find a cheap apartment anywhere is to write down what you are looking for in advance.  Look at your yearly budget and determine your essential lifestyle needs. Use Zumper’s resources to help you search for an apartment based on your specific preferences. Set a maximum budget that you are willing to spend on monthly rent and do not go over your budget.

If you are a single person, consider living with roommates to keep your rental costs down. If you have a family, make sure it is in a neighborhood that suits all family members’ needs. Be sure to visit all the neighborhoods you are considering before signing a lease. 

What is the cheapest rent in Rockville?

In Rockville, avoid areas such as Luxmanor, Lakewood Estates, and Falls Chapel Way. These most expensive neighborhoods in Rockville have more houses for sale rather than apartments to rent. Instead, explore areas such as Derwood, Rollins Park, and Glenora Hills. These neighborhoods are affordable, close to public transportation, and close to the Rockville city center.

How much do utilities cost in Rockville?

Just like Washington, D.C., Rockville is in the U.S. mid-Atlantic region. During the summer, this region’s characteristic heat and humidity can bear down on residents. Air conditioning is a must-have necessity in Rockville during the summer, and you will likely spend most of your utility budget keeping your home cool. Utility costs in Rockville are about 6.3% higher than the national average, but less than 1% higher than the average in Maryland.

Transportation is another cost to consider when you’re moving to Rockville. While Rockville is a suburban area with plenty of parking, many people live here and commute to larger cities such as Washington, D.C., using public transportation. The Red Line Metro service has two stops in Rockville, and many people use this comfortable suburb as a place to live and commute to the District for work. Monthly metro passes are customizable based on the stations you use, so you can get a money-saving pass that suits your individual needs.

What are some fun activities in Rockville?

Rockville, Maryland, has the perfect combination of local community activities only 20 miles away from a city that hosts large, international events throughout the year. The Rockville Town Square, a mixed-use development area, has affordable apartments, restaurants, and shops in the downtown area. Or check out the Rio Washingtonian Center in Gaithersburg, a family-friendly area with a playground, a ridable train for children, and a movie theater.  

If you are interested in spending time outdoors, Rockville has you covered. The Croydon Creek Nature Center features more than 120 acres of meadows, creeks, and trails to explore, along with an abundance of wildlife in the area. For those who want to spend time near the water, you can visit Lake Needwood in Rock Creek Regional Park. Here you can rent kayaks, canoes, or rowboats and spend the entire day at the 75-acre lake. 

The city has also recently dedicated resources toward making Rockville a more bike-friendly city. With more than 34.6 miles of shared-use paths and 3.9 miles of bike lanes, the city is becoming a safe and fun place to cycle. Rockville, Maryland, offers something for every resident.