Bethesda, MD vs. Mclean, VA: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
When relocating to the Washington D.C. metro area, Bethesda, MD and Mclean, VA often top the list for their excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and easy access to the capital. But which upscale suburb offers the best value in 2025? A closer look at the cost of living reveals that families could save over $250 per month by choosing carefully.
While both Bethesda and Mclean provide a high quality of life, they come with different price tags. Housing costs, utilities, taxes, and daily expenses can quickly add up, especially for larger households. Understanding where each city stands in 2025 is crucial for making an informed decision that fits your budget and lifestyle.
In this cost of living comparison, we’ll break down the key factors that impact your monthly expenses in Bethesda and Mclean. From the price of a gallon of milk to property tax rates, see how these two popular suburbs stack up and discover which one could help you save hundreds each month.
Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest line item in most household budgets, and Bethesda and Mclean are no exception. Both suburbs have a mix of apartments, townhomes, and single-family houses, but prices can vary significantly.
In Bethesda, the median home price hovers around $1.1 million in 2025, reflecting its popularity with affluent buyers. Renting a typical 2-bedroom apartment runs about $2,800 per month. Bethesda’s housing stock tends to be slightly older, with many homes dating back to the 1940s and 50s.
Mclean’s real estate market is equally competitive, with a median home value of $1.3 million. The rental market is somewhat tighter, with a 2-bedroom unit fetching around $3,200 monthly. Homes in Mclean are generally newer, with a significant portion built in the 1980s and 90s.
| Housing Type | Bethesda | Mclean |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $1,100,000 | $1,300,000 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,800 | $3,200 |
| 3BR House Rent | $4,200 | $4,800 |
For growing families in need of more space, Bethesda offers a slight edge with its larger supply of 3 and 4-bedroom homes. Young professionals and couples may find Mclean’s newer apartments and townhomes more appealing, but at a higher monthly cost.
Overall, Bethesda comes out ahead on housing costs in 2025, with lower prices for both renting and buying. Families looking to maximize their square footage on a budget will find more options in Bethesda’s established neighborhoods.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Powering and heating a home in Bethesda or Mclean isn’t cheap, but there are some differences to note. Both suburbs experience cold winters and hot, humid summers, leading to higher energy bills for heating and cooling.
In Bethesda, the average monthly utility bill for a 2-bedroom apartment is around $180, including electricity, gas, water, and trash. Larger single-family homes can expect to pay closer to $350 per month. Bethesda’s older housing stock may result in slightly higher heating and cooling costs compared to newer, more energy-efficient homes.
Mclean residents report similar utility expenses, with a typical 2-bedroom unit averaging $160 per month and a 3-bedroom house running about $300. Mclean’s newer construction tends to be better insulated, which can help keep energy costs down.
Both cities offer energy-saving programs and incentives, such as rebates for efficient appliances and off-peak electricity rates. Taking advantage of these can help offset utility costs in either location.
With a slight advantage thanks to its newer, more efficient homes, Mclean has the edge on utility costs in 2025. However, the difference is minimal and can easily be made up through energy-conscious habits.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
The cost of food and everyday items is another important factor when comparing Bethesda and Mclean. Both suburbs have a variety of grocery stores, from high-end specialty markets to budget-friendly chains.
In Bethesda, a gallon of milk typically costs around $4.50, while a dozen eggs go for about $3.80. A meal at a mid-range restaurant averages $60 for two people. Residents have access to several farmers markets for fresh, local produce during the warmer months.
Mclean’s grocery prices are generally on par with Bethesda’s, with a gallon of milk running about $4.30 and eggs at $3.60 per dozen. Dining out is slightly more expensive, with a typical meal for two costing around $70. Mclean also hosts a popular weekly farmers market from May through November.
For larger families, buying in bulk at stores like Costco or Sam’s Club can lead to significant savings in either city. Singles and couples may find that Bethesda’s wider range of grocery options, from Trader Joe’s to Whole Foods, offers more opportunities to save on everyday items.
When it comes to groceries and daily expenses, Bethesda and Mclean are neck-and-neck in 2025. A smart shopping strategy can help keep costs down in either location.
Taxes and Fees
Taxes are often overlooked in cost of living comparisons, but they can have a big impact on your bottom line. Both Bethesda and Mclean have relatively high property tax rates, but there are some key differences to consider.
In Bethesda, the effective property tax rate is around 0.98% in 2025. For a home valued at $1.1 million, that translates to an annual tax bill of roughly $10,780. Maryland also has a state income tax, with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75% depending on your income level.
Mclean’s property taxes are slightly lower, with an effective rate of 0.92%. However, Virginia’s income tax rates are higher, starting at 2% and going up to 5.75% for top earners. A $1.3 million home in Mclean would owe around $11,960 in property taxes each year.
It’s worth noting that both cities have additional fees for services like trash collection and water. These can add up to several hundred dollars per year, so be sure to factor them into your budget.
When it comes to taxes, Bethesda has a slight advantage for homeowners in 2025, thanks to its lower property tax rate. However, the difference is relatively small and may be offset by Maryland’s lower income tax rates for some earners.
Cost of Living in Bethesda vs Mclean (2025)
| Category | Bethesda | Mclean |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $2,800 | $3,200 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries | $500 | $550 |
| Transportation | $130 | $140 |
| Taxes (Property) | $898 | $997 |
| Misc. | $400 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,908 | $5,497 |
These estimates reflect typical costs in 2025 for a two-person household renting a 2-bedroom apartment. Actual expenses will vary depending on lifestyle, family size, housing choices, and neighborhood. Taxes are based on the median home price in each city and may differ for renters or those with different property values.
Looking at the numbers, Bethesda comes out ahead by about $589 per month, or $7,068 per year. For a family of four, the savings could be even greater, thanks to Bethesda’s lower housing costs across the board.
Lifestyle Fit
Of course, cost of living is just one piece of the puzzle when choosing between Bethesda and Mclean. Both suburbs offer a high quality of life, with excellent schools, low crime rates, and plenty of green space.
Bethesda is known for its walkable downtown area, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The Capital Crescent Trail provides a scenic route for biking and jogging, while the nearby Bethesda Metro station offers a quick commute into D.C.
Mclean, on the other hand, has a more suburban feel, with larger lots and a greater emphasis on privacy. The Tysons Corner Center mall is a major draw for shoppers, while the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts hosts outdoor concerts and shows.
Both cities have highly-rated public school systems, but Bethesda’s Walt Whitman High School consistently ranks among the best in the nation. Mclean’s Langley High School is also highly regarded, with strong academics and extracurricular programs.
Ultimately, the choice between Bethesda and Mclean comes down to personal preferences and priorities. Those who value walkability and a more urban feel may prefer Bethesda, while those seeking a quieter, more spacious lifestyle may find Mclean more appealing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bethesda more affordable than Mclean in 2025?
Yes, Bethesda has a lower overall cost of living compared to Mclean in 2025, particularly when it comes to housing expenses. A typical family could save around $600 per month by choosing to live in Bethesda over Mclean.
Are rental prices lower in Bethesda or Mclean?
Rental prices are generally lower in Bethesda, with a 2-bedroom apartment averaging around $2,800 per month in 2025. In Mclean, a similar unit would cost closer to $3,200 per month.
How do grocery costs compare between Bethesda and Mclean?
Grocery prices are very similar in Bethesda and Mclean, with only minor differences for staples like milk and eggs. Restaurant meals tend to be slightly more expensive in Mclean.
Are property taxes higher in Mclean than in Bethesda?
Property tax rates are actually slightly lower in Mclean (0.92% vs 0.98% in Bethesda), but Mclean’s higher home values mean that most homeowners will pay more in annual property taxes compared to similar homes in Bethesda.
What is the average monthly cost of living for a family of four in Bethesda vs. Mclean?
In 2025, a family of four can expect to spend around $7,500 per month living in Bethesda, compared to roughly $8,500 per month in Mclean. This assumes a 3-bedroom rental home, two cars, and a moderate lifestyle.
Conclusion
While both Bethesda and Mclean offer a high quality of life in the D.C. metro area, Bethesda comes out ahead in terms of affordability in 2025. With lower housing costs, slightly cheaper utilities, and comparable expenses for food and transportation, Bethesda is the more budget-friendly choice for families and professionals alike.
That said, the cost difference between the two cities is relatively small, and may be outweighed by other factors like schools, commute times, and lifestyle preferences. Those who prioritize a more suburban, spacious environment may find that Mclean’s higher costs are worth it for the added privacy and amenities.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, budget, and long-term goals. Use our Bethesda monthly budget calculator to estimate your expenses and see how much you could save by choosing one city over the other. And if you’re planning a move, be sure to compare the costs of hiring movers vs. renting a truck to find the most affordable option.