Appreciation Investing in Baltimore, MD

Appreciation Score: 1.3/10Ranked #50 of 52 markets

Data-driven appreciation analysis for Baltimore, MD — score breakdown, key investment metrics, and how it compares to other markets.

Last updated: May 2026

Score Breakdown

Appreciation Score:1.3
Population Growth(40%)
-3.0%0.5
Median Household Income(25%)
$59,6233.3
Low Vacancy(20%)
14.7%0.0
Metro Size (Demand)(15%)
577,1931.6

Key Metrics for Appreciation

Pop. Growth

-3.0%

Moderate

Median Income

$59,623

Household income

Vacancy Rate

14.7%

Moderate supply

Population

577K

Metro demand indicator

Appreciation Investment Thesis

Baltimore offers high rent-to-price ratios close to DC, but population decline and high vacancy require neighborhood-level analysis. Canton, Federal Hill, and Hampden are investor favorites.

How Baltimore Compares

RankCityAppreciation ScoreCap RateMedian Price
#47Little Rock, AR1.98.3%$150,000
#48Toledo, OH1.89.0%$88,000
#49St. Louis, MO1.37.4%$165,000
#50Baltimore, MD1.36.5%$180,000

Showing markets ranked near Baltimore for this strategy.

Quick Math: Estimated Annual Return

Annual Gross Rent ($1,350/mo)$16,200
Less: Vacancy (14.7%)-$2,381
Less: Property Tax (2.25%)-$4,050
Less: Insurance (~0.5%)-$900
Less: Maintenance (~1.5%)-$2,700
Estimated NOI$6,169
Implied Cap Rate3.4%

Based on median market data. Your actual returns will vary based on specific property, financing, and management costs. Always run your own analysis before investing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the appreciation score for Baltimore, MD?

Baltimore, MD scores 1.3 out of 10 on our appreciation score, ranking #50 out of 52 markets we track. Weighted composite: population growth (40%), median household income (25%), low vacancy (20%), metro size/demand (15%). Scale 0–10.

Is Baltimore a good city for appreciation investing?

Baltimore, MD ranks #50 for appreciation investing with a score of 1.3/10. While not a top-ranked market for this strategy, it may have strengths in other investing approaches.

What is the average cap rate in Baltimore?

The average cap rate in Baltimore, MD is 6.5%. The median home price is $180,000 with a median monthly rent of $1,350, resulting in a rent-to-price ratio of 0.75%.

What are the property taxes in Baltimore?

The effective property tax rate in Baltimore, MD is 2.25%. On a $180,000 property, that translates to approximately $4,050 per year in property taxes.

How does Baltimore compare to other appreciation markets?

Among our 52 tracked markets, Baltimore, MD ranks #50 for appreciation investing. Other markets may be stronger for this particular strategy, though it may excel in different approaches.

What is driving population growth in Baltimore?

Baltimore, MD has a 5-year population growth rate of -3.0% and a median household income of $59,623. While population has declined, price appreciation can still occur through revitalization, institutional investment, and limited new housing supply.

Run Your Own Numbers for Baltimore

Use our free calculators pre-filled with Baltimore, MD market data, or adjust the numbers for your specific deal.