Cost of Living in Franklin County, Maine
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Franklin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Franklin County, Maine
Franklin offers Maine's tightest rent-to-income ratio
Franklin County renters spend just 15.6% of income on rent—the lowest ratio among all Maine counties and below both the state average (17.4%) and national average. This western county achieves remarkable affordability through low rents ($759) matched with reasonable median household income of $58,522.
Second-most affordable county in Maine
Franklin ranks second statewide for housing affordability, trailing only Aroostook with the second-lowest rent-to-income ratio and second-lowest median rent. The county offers genuine breathing room in housing budgets across Maine's affordability spectrum.
Mountain county beats coastal and rural rivals
Franklin's $759 rent edges slightly below Aroostook ($736) and sits notably below Hancock ($1,000), Kennebec ($952), and all coastal counties. Home values at $176,700 position Franklin between Aroostook's bargains and the pricier coastal markets.
Housing costs leave room for other priorities
Renters invest $759 monthly while homeowners pay $811, with a median income of $58,522 supporting both paths comfortably. At just 15.6% of income to rent, Franklin households retain the strongest discretionary purchasing power of any Maine county.
Franklin rewards those seeking real value
If you're relocating to Maine and want genuine affordability with access to hiking, lakes, and small-town charm, Franklin delivers. The county's western mountain setting and low housing costs make it worth serious consideration against coastal alternatives.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Franklin County
Rent Burden
15.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,366
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.6%
of gross income
The median home in Franklin County may be a stretch
Median home value is $176,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,411 vs. your max of $1,366.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.