Average Rent in Bethesda, MD (2026)
Typical asking rent in Bethesda is $3,485. Across the 3 ZIP codes with data it runs from $2,786 to $4,658, so which side of town you buy on matters as much as the city average. Data as of June 2026.
Rent by ZIP code in Bethesda
| ZIP code | County | Typical rent | vs city median |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20816 | Montgomery County | $4,658 | +34% |
| 20817 | Montgomery County | $3,485 | 0% |
| 20814 | Montgomery County | $2,786 | -20% |
How to use these numbers
These are Zillow Observed Rent Index values, a smoothed measure of typical asking rent for single family homes, condos, and apartments in each ZIP code. They describe what units are listed for, not what any specific unit will get. Condition, bedroom count, and the exact block all move the number.
If you are underwriting a purchase, use the ZIP figure rather than the city median, and then verify against live listings for the same bedroom count before you commit. Bethesda sits in the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV metro area.
Other Maryland cities
Would a rental in Bethesda cash flow?
Start the analyzer with the Bethesda median rent of $3,485 and add a real purchase price to see cash flow, cap rate, and cash-on-cash return.