Cost of Living in Knox County, Maine
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Knox County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Knox County ranks #1,547 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Knox County, Maine
Knox's coastal rents exceed national standard
Knox renters spend 18.0% of income on rent, above both Maine's state average (17.4%) and the national average. The county's median household income of $71,903 sits above state peers but still yields a notable housing cost burden reflective of coastal demand.
Knox ranks in Maine's pricier half
Knox places 11th among Maine's 16 counties for affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio notably above the state average. The county's coastal location and scenic appeal command housing premium that affects both renters and homeowners.
Mid-coast pricing between markets
Knox's $1,079 rent exceeds Hancock ($1,000) to the north but remains well below Cumberland ($1,492) to the south, establishing mid-coast positioning. Median home values of $290,800 reflect solid coastal demand, second only to Cumberland statewide.
Homeownership carries higher burden here
Renters spend $1,079 monthly while homeowners invest substantially more at $1,246, with the county's $71,903 median income pressed by both housing costs. At 18.0% of income devoted to rent, Knox households face tighter budgets than most Maine counties.
Knox rewards those valuing scenic appeal
If you're relocating to Maine's scenic mid-coast—home to Rockland's arts scene and island access—expect moderate coastal premium. Compare Knox's prices against Hancock's more affordable coastal option or Franklin's inland value before committing to the mid-coast lifestyle.
Cost of Living Advisory: Knox County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Knox County is affordable. The median rent is $1,079/month against a median household income of $71,903, putting rent at 18.0% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Knox County pay $1,079/month on average, compared to $1,246/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 13%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $53,400/year. With a median household income of $71,903, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Knox County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Knox County sits 8% more expensive than Lincoln County ($1,003/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Knox County
Rent Burden
18.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,678
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.8%
of gross income
The median home in Knox County may be a stretch
Median home value is $290,800. Estimated monthly cost: $2,322 vs. your max of $1,678.
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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