Cost of Living in Aroostook County, Maine
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Aroostook County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Aroostook County ranks #1,724 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 45%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Aroostook County, Maine
Aroostook offers Maine's best rent affordability
Aroostook renters spend just 16.3% of income on rent, below both Maine's state average of 17.4% and the national average. The county achieves this advantage despite a median household income of $54,254—the lowest among Maine's counties—through genuinely low rents at $736 monthly.
Most affordable county in all of Maine
Aroostook ranks first statewide for housing affordability, with the lowest rent-to-income ratio and lowest median rent among Maine's 16 counties. This northern county offers a rare combination: genuine affordability without sacrificing quality of life.
North country rents beat southern rivals
Aroostook's $736 rent is substantially cheaper than Franklin County ($759) to the south and dramatically lower than coastal counties like Hancock ($1,000) or Knox ($1,079). Home values at $131,700 represent the most accessible entry to homeownership in Maine.
Income stretches further in the north
Renters pay $736 monthly while homeowners invest $762, both remarkably low for the nation, with a median income of $54,254 supporting both housing paths. Just 16.3% of income goes to rent, leaving substantial room for savings and other expenses.
Aroostook welcomes those seeking real affordability
If Maine's coastal prices feel out of reach, Aroostook delivers genuine affordability with the state's lowest rents and home values. The county's northern location rewards remote workers and retirees willing to embrace Maine's quieter landscape.
Cost of Living Advisory: Aroostook County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Aroostook County is affordable. The median rent is $736/month against a median household income of $54,254, putting rent at 16.3% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $736/month rent versus $762/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $26/month cheaper — a 3% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,657/year. With a median household income of $54,254, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Aroostook County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Aroostook County sits 9% less expensive than Oxford County ($807/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Aroostook County
Rent Burden
16.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,266
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Aroostook County
Median home value is $131,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,051 vs. your max of $1,266.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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