Rockville, MD vs. Silver Spring, MD: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
When deciding where to live in the Washington D.C. metro area, many people assume Silver Spring is more affordable than Rockville. But is that still true in 2025? As two popular Maryland suburbs just north of the nation’s capital, Rockville and Silver Spring attract a mix of young professionals seeking an easy commute and families looking for more space. While they share some similarities, a closer look at the numbers reveals key differences in the cost of living that can sway your decision.
For those debating between these two cities in 2025, housing costs, transportation expenses, and taxes are the main factors to consider. Rockville tends to have slightly higher home prices and rents, but also offers more single-family options compared to Silver Spring’s denser apartment and townhome mix. Silver Spring residents benefit from more frequent public transit and walkable neighborhoods, potentially saving on transportation. However, Montgomery County’s progressive income tax structure means high earners could face steeper taxes in either city compared to other parts of Maryland.
As you weigh the pros and cons of Rockville vs. Silver Spring, cost of living is a central part of the equation. Breaking down the monthly expenses across major categories will help you see which city best fits your lifestyle and budget in 2025. Let’s dive into the details to uncover how much you can expect to spend and where you might save in each location.
Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest line item in most budgets, and the Rockville vs. Silver Spring matchup is no exception. Both cities have a mix of older homes, new construction, apartments, and townhomes, but the overall stock and pricing varies. Rockville has a larger share of single-family homes, with a median price around $600,000 in 2025. Renting a typical 2-bedroom apartment in Rockville runs about $2,400 per month.
Silver Spring, on the other hand, has more multifamily options, including high-rise apartments near the Metro stations. The median home price is slightly lower at $550,000, but competition for affordable starter homes can be fierce. A 2-bedroom apartment in Silver Spring averages $2,200 monthly, though prices climb closer to $3,000 for newer luxury buildings.
For a quick snapshot, here’s how common housing costs compare:
| Housing Type | Rockville | Silver Spring |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $600,000 | $550,000 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,400 | $2,200 |
| 3BR House Rent | $3,200 | $3,000 |
What does this mean for different households? Families seeking space and highly-rated schools will find more options in Rockville, but pay a premium of $200-500 more per month to buy or rent a single-family home. Young professionals prioritizing transit access and walkability may prefer Silver Spring, where they can save on housing while still being close to D.C.
Overall, Silver Spring comes out slightly ahead on housing costs for most residents. The greater share of apartments and smaller homes keeps prices a bit lower than Rockville, especially for renters not looking to size up yet.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are a monthly reality no matter where you live. In Rockville and Silver Spring, expect to pay around $200 per month for electricity, water, gas, and trash collection for a typical 2-bedroom apartment. Larger homes will see higher bills, particularly in summer and winter when heating and cooling needs peak.
Older houses in both cities tend to be less energy-efficient, so residents often report higher utility costs compared to newer apartment buildings. If you’re renting, check whether your monthly payment includes any utilities to avoid surprises. Some property managers cover water, trash, and even electricity in the base rent.
Since Rockville and Silver Spring are only about 5 miles apart, there’s no major difference in utility rates. Assuming comparable usage, an average household will spend a similar amount on utilities in either city. It ultimately depends more on your home’s size and age than the zip code.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
On the day-to-day basics like groceries, household goods, and dining out, Rockville and Silver Spring are fairly even. Both have a variety of supermarkets, from high-end organic markets to budget-friendly chains. Expect to spend around $400-500 per month on groceries for a couple, or $800-1,000 for a family of four.
One notable difference is that Rockville has slightly more big-box retailers and discount clubs, which can help save on staples and bulk items. Think Costco runs for paper towels and pantry essentials. Silver Spring has a greater concentration of small international grocers, which often have excellent deals on produce and spices if you don’t mind exploring.
Dining out is a popular pastime in both cities, with options ranging from cheap eats to special occasion splurges. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages $70-80 in both Rockville and Silver Spring. However, the latter has a few more buzzy chef-driven concepts that can run $100+ per person. For the most part, though, you’ll pay similar prices for a quick weeknight bite or weekend brunch in either spot.
When it comes to everyday expenses, Rockville and Silver Spring are neck and neck. The abundance of grocery and dining choices at different price points means households can find ways to save or splurge in line with their budgets.
Taxes and Fees
As Montgomery County residents, people living in both Rockville and Silver Spring pay a progressive state income tax of 2-5.75% on top of federal taxes. The county also charges a piggyback income tax of 3.2%. For a household earning the median income of $110,000, that translates to roughly $5,100 in annual state and county income taxes.
Property taxes are another significant cost for homeowners. The rate in Rockville is 0.7166% of assessed value, while Silver Spring homeowners pay 0.7166% to the county plus an additional 0.024% to the city. For a median-priced home, that’s a difference of about $144 per year in favor of Rockville.
One important callout for potential buyers is that newer homes and condos may have higher HOA or condo fees to cover amenities and maintenance. In Rockville, these extra charges often include community pools, fitness centers, and snow removal. Silver Spring has more no-frills options where you’ll pay lower monthly fees but forgo the fancy extras. Be sure to factor in all housing-related costs beyond the sticker price when weighing affordability.
Comparing the total tax picture, Rockville has an edge for homeowners thanks to slightly lower property taxes. But for most residents, the difference in income and daily living taxes between the two cities is negligible. Your individual earning and spending patterns will play a bigger role in how much you owe Uncle Sam each year.
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| Category | Rockville | Silver Spring |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Median 2BR Rent) | $2,400 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $200 | $200 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $200 | $180 |
| Taxes (Income & Property*) | $600 | $610 |
| Miscellaneous | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,400 | $4,190 |
*Assumes a household income of $110,000 and a median-priced home. Actual tax rates vary based on income and property value.
Examining the total monthly costs side by side, Silver Spring squeaks ahead of Rockville by about $210 per month for a typical family. The lower housing and transportation costs add up over time, potentially saving Silver Spring residents $2,500 per year. However, the margin is slim enough that other lifestyle factors can easily outweigh the monthly savings for many households.
Keep in mind that these figures are estimates based on average costs for a 2-bedroom rental. Your specific monthly expenses will depend on your unique situation, including income, housing choices, family size, and spending habits. Use these numbers as a starting point for your own budget, but don’t be afraid to adjust up or down based on your preferred lifestyle.
Lifestyle Fit
For many people choosing between Rockville and Silver Spring, the cost of living is only one piece of the puzzle. Lifestyle fit is just as important, if not more so. Both cities offer a high quality of life, with excellent schools, ample green space, and easy access to D.C. But they do have some key differences that can sway your decision.
Rockville has a more suburban feel, with tree-lined streets and spacious yards. It’s a great choice for families who want room to spread out while still being close to the city. The highly-rated Montgomery County Public Schools are a major draw, as are the numerous parks and recreation centers. Commuters can hop on the Metro red line or I-270 to get downtown, but most errands will require a car. Nearly 80% of Rockville residents drive to work.
Silver Spring, meanwhile, has a more urban vibe, especially around the downtown core. It’s a haven for young professionals and empty nesters who want to ditch the car and walk to restaurants, bars, and shops. The Metro red line runs through the heart of Silver Spring, making it a convenient launching pad for commuters. About 40% of residents take public transit to work. The trade-off is that homes are closer together and green space is more limited.
These lifestyle differences can influence your monthly budget in subtle ways. For example, Rockville residents may spend more on transportation due to higher car ownership rates. But they could save on utilities in a newer, energy-efficient home. Silver Spring residents might have lower housing costs in a small apartment, but spend more on dining out and entertainment thanks to the wealth of options steps from their front door.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Consider how you want to spend your time and money, and let that guide your decision between these two appealing Montgomery County cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rockville more affordable than Silver Spring in 2025?
On average, Silver Spring is slightly more affordable than Rockville in 2025, with lower housing and transportation costs. However, the difference is small enough that other factors like home size, neighborhood, and lifestyle preferences can shift the balance.
Are rental prices lower in Rockville or Silver Spring?
Rental prices are generally lower in Silver Spring, especially for apartments. A typical 2-bedroom unit costs $200 less per month in Silver Spring compared to Rockville. However, Rockville has more single-family home rentals, which can be harder to find in Silver Spring.
How do grocery costs compare between Rockville and Silver Spring?
Grocery costs are similar in Rockville and Silver Spring, with both cities offering a range of supermarkets at different price points. Residents can expect to spend $400-500 per month on food for a couple, or $800-1,000 for a family of four.
Are property taxes higher in Silver Spring than in Rockville?
Property taxes are slightly higher in Silver Spring than in Rockville. Silver Spring homeowners pay an additional 0.024% city tax on top of the Montgomery County rate of 0.7166%. For a median-priced home, that translates to about $144 more per year.
What is the average monthly cost of living for a family of four in Rockville vs. Silver Spring?
The average monthly cost of living for a family of four is around $4,400 in Rockville and $4,190 in Silver Spring, assuming a median income and housing costs. This includes expenses like rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, taxes, and miscellaneous spending. However, actual budgets will vary based on individual circumstances.
Conclusion
Rockville and Silver Spring are two appealing options for anyone looking to live in Montgomery County, Maryland. While they share many similarities, like highly-rated schools and easy access to Washington, D.C., there are some notable differences in the cost of living.
Silver Spring comes out slightly ahead on affordability, with lower housing and transportation costs that can save a typical family around $200 per month. However, Rockville offers more spacious homes and a suburban lifestyle that may be worth the premium for some households. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget, housing needs, and personal preferences.
If you’re still undecided, take a closer look at your sample monthly budget for Rockville in 2025 or read up on the true cost of living in Rockville to get a better sense of what you can afford. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, check out our top moving company picks to help make your transition as smooth as possible.