Maine Cost of Living
Housing costs and affordability data for 16 counties.
Average Monthly Rent
$969/mo
Average Home Value
$236,581
Average Owner Cost
$1,061/mo
At a Glance
Housing Costs in Maine: An Overview
The median rent in Maine is $969 per month, which is 17% below the national median of $1,163. This makes the state relatively affordable compared to much of the country.
Within Maine, housing costs vary significantly by county. Cumberland County is the most expensive county with a median rent of $1,492 per month and a median home value of $411,400. At the other end of the spectrum, Aroostook County offers the most affordable housing, with a median rent of $736 per month and homes valued at a median of $131,700.
The average home value across Maine counties is $236,581, 16% lower than the national median of $281,900. With a median household income of roughly $66,872, homeownership remains within reach for many households.
Before moving to Maine, it is worth understanding the local housing landscape. Costs can swing dramatically between rural and urban counties, so researching the specific county you plan to live in is essential. Use the county-level data below to compare rent, home values, and affordability ratings so you can budget accurately for your relocation.
Distribution
Rent Distribution in Maine
How median rents are spread across 16 counties
Top 5 Most Expensive Counties
Top 5 Most Affordable Counties
All Maine Counties
| County | Median Rent | Home Value | Owner Cost | Rent/Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cumberland County | Moderate$1,492/mo | $411,400 | $1,609/mo | 29.0% |
| York County | Moderate$1,239/mo | $357,200 | $1,470/mo | 28.0% |
| Knox County | Moderate$1,079/mo | $290,800 | $1,246/mo | 30.0% |
| Sagadahoc County | Moderate$1,050/mo | $300,200 | $1,437/mo | 30.0% |
| Lincoln County | Moderate$1,003/mo | $306,200 | $1,128/mo | 26.0% |
| Hancock County | Moderate$1,000/mo | $278,400 | $1,068/mo | 30.0% |
| Penobscot County | Affordable$997/mo | $193,800 | $968/mo | 29.0% |
| Waldo County | Affordable$969/mo | $239,100 | $1,022/mo | 28.0% |
| Androscoggin County | Affordable$966/mo | $232,000 | $1,268/mo | 28.0% |
| Kennebec County | Affordable$952/mo | $219,900 | $1,073/mo | 29.0% |
| Somerset County | Affordable$887/mo | $155,200 | $782/mo | 26.0% |
| Oxford County | Affordable$807/mo | $192,300 | $875/mo | 31.0% |
| Piscataquis County | Affordable$807/mo | $153,300 | $738/mo | 26.0% |
| Washington County | Affordable$768/mo | $147,100 | $724/mo | 31.0% |
| Franklin County | Affordable$759/mo | $176,700 | $811/mo | 28.0% |
| Aroostook County | Affordable$736/mo | $131,700 | $762/mo | 28.0% |
Compare Maine to Other States
See how Maine counties stack up against counties in other states. Compare rent, home values, and affordability side by side.
Start a ComparisonFrequently Asked Questions About Maine Housing Costs
What is the most affordable county in Maine?
What is the most expensive county to live in Maine?
How does Maine's cost of living compare to the national average?
What is the average home value in Maine?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Maine, Maine? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.