Bethesda, MD vs. Rockville, MD: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Bethesda and Rockville, two popular suburbs in the Washington, D.C. metro area, often draw comparisons from those looking to relocate or buy a home in Montgomery County. While both cities offer a high quality of life and easy access to the nation’s capital, there are notable differences in their cost of living that can sway decisions, especially in 2025 as inflation and housing costs remain key concerns.
For families seeking more space, Rockville’s slightly lower housing costs may be appealing, while young professionals might prefer Bethesda’s walkable urban vibe, even with a bit of a premium. As you weigh factors like career opportunities, school districts, and recreational options, be sure to consider the financial tradeoffs between these two cities. Our in-depth cost of living comparison will help you determine which locale best fits your lifestyle and budget in 2025.
In a nutshell, here’s how Bethesda and Rockville stack up:
- 🏘️ Housing costs: 18% higher in Bethesda
- 🔌 Utilities: 5% lower in Rockville
- 🥑 Groceries: Nearly even
- 🚌 Transportation: 12% cheaper in Bethesda
- 💸 Taxes: Property taxes 10% lower in Rockville
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the most significant expense for most households, and it’s where Bethesda and Rockville diverge the most. In 2025, the median home price in Bethesda is around $1,050,000, while Rockville’s median stands at $890,000. For a typical 3-bedroom single-family home, expect to pay about 18% more in Bethesda.
Rents follow a similar pattern, with the average 2-bedroom apartment going for $2,600 per month in Bethesda compared to $2,200 in Rockville. However, Bethesda does offer a wider variety of rental options, from new luxury buildings to charming older apartments, giving renters more price points to consider.
| Housing Type | Bethesda | Rockville |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $1,050,000 | $890,000 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,600 | $2,200 |
| 3BR House Mortgage | $4,400* | $3,700* |
*Assumes 20% down, 30-year fixed mortgage at 4.5% interest. Property taxes and insurance not included.
For families looking to maximize space on a budget, Rockville offers more bang for the buck with its slightly older but well-maintained housing stock. Young professionals and couples without kids may find Bethesda’s higher costs worth it for the prime location and urban amenities. Ultimately, your specific housing needs and preferences will dictate which city delivers better value.
🏆 Winner: Rockville. With notably lower home prices and rents, Rockville takes the lead on housing affordability.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs in Bethesda and Rockville are fairly comparable, with both cities served by the same electricity and natural gas providers. However, Rockville residents report slightly lower energy bills, likely due to the city’s newer housing stock with better insulation and efficient systems.
For a typical household, monthly utility costs average:
- Bethesda: $180-$220
- Rockville: $170-$210
Seasonal spikes are common, with summer air conditioning and winter heating driving up costs. Larger homes will also see higher bills, but Rockville’s 5% advantage tends to hold across property sizes.
🏆 Winner: Rockville, but just barely. Residents can expect to save around $10-$20 per month on utilities compared to Bethesda.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Both Bethesda and Rockville offer a mix of grocery options, from major chains to local specialty stores. Prices for staples like milk, bread, and eggs are nearly identical in the two cities, with variations of less than 2%.
Where costs can differ is in dining out and entertainment. Bethesda’s restaurant scene is more extensive and upscale, with pricier farm-to-table spots and trendy eateries. A typical dinner for two averages $80-$100. Rockville has its share of excellent restaurants but with more casual, family-friendly options in the $50-$70 range for a comparable meal.
For everyday purchases like coffee, household goods, and personal care items, costs are on par between the two cities. Bethesda’s slightly higher prices are offset by a wider variety of stores and more frequent sales.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery costs are a wash, with Rockville offering savings on dining out while Bethesda delivers more shopping options.
4. Taxes and Fees
As Maryland cities, both Bethesda and Rockville share the same state income tax rates, which range from 2% to 5.75% depending on income level. However, there are notable differences in property taxes that can impact homeowners.
Rockville’s property tax rate is $0.292 per $100 of assessed value, while Bethesda (unincorporated) follows Montgomery County’s rate of $0.9912. For a home assessed at $800,000, that translates to annual taxes of:
- Bethesda: $7,930
- Rockville: $2,336
Over the long term, Rockville’s significantly lower property taxes can lead to substantial savings for homeowners. Renters may see this differential passed down in the form of lower rents as well.
Both cities charge similar fees for services like trash collection and water, with costs varying by usage and property size. Parking is generally more expensive in Bethesda due to higher demand and fewer free options.
🏆 Winner: Rockville. Its lower property tax rate gives homeowners a clear advantage, potentially saving thousands per year.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Bethesda | Rockville |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage or Rent)* | $2,600 – $4,400 | $2,200 – $3,700 |
| Utilities | $200 | $190 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $120 | $140 |
| Taxes (Income & Property)** | $1,200 | $950 |
| Miscellaneous | $400 | $350 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,920 – $6,720 | $4,230 – $5,730 |
*Housing costs reflect rent for a 2BR apartment or mortgage payment for a median-priced 3BR home. **Tax estimates based on a $100,000 household income and a $800,000 home value. Actual costs will vary based on individual circumstances.
As the table illustrates, living in Bethesda tends to be more expensive across most major categories, with housing and taxes being the key drivers. For a typical family, choosing Rockville over Bethesda could translate to savings of $700 or more per month. However, these savings should be weighed against other factors like commute times, school preferences, and recreational priorities.
Methodology: Estimates reflect 2025 costs for a mid-size household (2-bedroom apartment or 3-bedroom home) using published national data and regional benchmarks. Actual expenses will vary with household size, lifestyle, and neighborhood.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Beyond the numbers, choosing between Bethesda and Rockville often comes down to lifestyle preferences. Bethesda’s walkable downtown, Metro access, and vibrant arts scene draw many young professionals and empty nesters. The city’s slightly higher costs are offset by convenient amenities and a 15-minute shorter average commute to D.C.
Rockville, on the other hand, offers a more suburban feel with larger homes, highly rated public schools, and ample green space. It’s an attractive choice for families seeking a kid-friendly community with room to grow. While commutes may be longer, the city’s lower housing costs can enable a higher quality of life.
Both cities boast excellent public safety, outdoor recreation, and community events. Bethesda’s edge in walkability and transit access can reduce transportation costs, while Rockville’s newer homes may mean lower utility and maintenance bills. Ultimately, the right fit depends on your family’s unique needs and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bethesda more affordable than Rockville in 2025?
Overall, Rockville offers a lower cost of living compared to Bethesda in 2025, particularly for housing and property taxes. However, Bethesda can be more affordable for some lifestyles due to its walkability and transit options.
How do grocery costs compare between Bethesda and Rockville?
Grocery prices are nearly identical in Bethesda and Rockville, with major chains and local stores offering similar rates. Restaurant dining tends to be 10-20% more expensive in Bethesda.
Are property taxes higher in Rockville than in Bethesda?
No, property tax rates are significantly lower in Rockville. The city’s rate is $0.292 per $100 of assessed value, while Bethesda follows Montgomery County’s rate of $0.9912.
What is the average monthly cost of living for a family of four in Bethesda vs. Rockville?
In 2025, a family of four can expect to spend around $6,000-$7,000 per month in Bethesda compared to $5,000-$6,000 in Rockville. Housing and taxes account for most of the difference.
Is Bethesda considered a better value for homebuyers compared to Rockville?
While Bethesda offers a prime location and urban amenities, Rockville generally provides better value for homebuyers due to its lower housing costs and property taxes. However, Bethesda can be a good fit for those prioritizing walkability and shorter commutes.
The Bottom Line
Deciding between Bethesda and Rockville ultimately comes down to your budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Rockville’s lower housing costs and taxes make it an excellent value for growing families and those looking to stretch their dollars. Meanwhile, Bethesda’s urban vibe, convenient transit, and lively downtown can be worth the premium for young professionals and those who value walkability.
Regardless of which city you choose, it’s essential to plan your monthly budget carefully and account for all expenses, from housing and utilities to transportation and taxes. By weighing the tradeoffs and aligning your choice with your financial goals, you can make a smart decision that balances cost and quality of life in 2025 and beyond.
Ready to make your move? See our 2025 moving company picks to find vetted professionals who can help you transition to Bethesda, Rockville, or anywhere in between.