Survey Highlights Affordability Woes in Baltimore Area

Johns Hopkins University poll finds widespread concerns over medical, utility, and housing costs.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A new survey from Johns Hopkins University reveals significant affordability challenges facing residents of Baltimore City and Baltimore County. Around a third of respondents reported difficulty covering medical expenses and paying utility bills on time in the past year. The survey also found that 20% of people were food insecure, with 75% of city residents concerned about future housing costs.

Why it matters

The findings underscore the economic pressures facing many in the Baltimore metro area, with high costs for essentials like healthcare, utilities, food, and housing straining household budgets. The data provides important insights into the scope of affordability issues that local policymakers and community organizations will need to address.

The details

The survey, which polled residents of both Baltimore City and Baltimore County, found that around a third of respondents said they found it somewhat or very difficult to cover medical expenses and pay utility bills on time in the last 12 months. Additionally, 20% of people reported being food insecure during that period. In terms of housing, 75% of city residents expressed concern about future costs, compared to 50% of Baltimore County residents. The poll also revealed transportation challenges, with 15% of all respondents classifying themselves as highly transportation insecure, including 40% of Baltimore City residents.

  • The survey was conducted by Johns Hopkins University in 2026.

The players

Johns Hopkins University

A private research university located in Baltimore, Maryland that conducted the survey on affordability issues in the Baltimore metro area.

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The takeaway

The findings from this comprehensive survey underscore the significant economic pressures facing many Baltimore-area residents, with high costs for essentials like healthcare, utilities, food, and housing straining household budgets. These insights will be crucial for local policymakers and community organizations as they work to address the scope of affordability challenges in the region.