Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Maine
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lincoln County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lincoln County ranks #1,171 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 37%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lincoln County, Maine
Lincoln's rent costs sit between coast and nation
Lincoln renters spend 16.7% of income on rent, below Maine's state average (17.4%) and below the national average. The county's median household income of $72,026 supports this favorable ratio, positioning Lincoln as an accessible coastal alternative.
Third-most affordable Maine coastal county
Lincoln ranks sixth among Maine's 16 counties for housing affordability, bettering the state average and offering notably better value than its coastal peers. The county delivers genuine affordability among Maine's oceanside communities.
Mid-coast gem priced between peers
Lincoln's $1,003 rent nearly matches Hancock ($1,000) and sits well below Knox ($1,079) and Cumberland ($1,492), establishing strong mid-coast value. Median home values of $306,200 reflect coastal demand while remaining below Knox's $290,800 and far below Cumberland's $411,400.
Balanced costs across housing paths
Renters pay $1,003 monthly while homeowners invest $1,128, with the county's $72,026 median income maintaining the favorable 16.7% rent-to-income ratio. Lincoln households preserve solid discretionary purchasing power despite coastal positioning.
Lincoln delivers coastal value without compromise
If you're seeking Maine's coast without the steep price tag, Lincoln County ranks among Maine's best-value oceanside communities. The county's strong affordability ranking, reasonable incomes, and coastal access make it worthy of serious comparison against pricier alternatives.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lincoln County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Lincoln County is affordable. The median rent is $1,003/month against a median household income of $72,026, putting rent at 16.7% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,003/month rent versus $1,128/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $125/month cheaper — a 11% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $40,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $48,343/year. With a median household income of $72,026, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Lincoln County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Lincoln County sits 5% more expensive than Kennebec County ($952/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lincoln County
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,681
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.8%
of gross income
The median home in Lincoln County may be a stretch
Median home value is $306,200. Estimated monthly cost: $2,444 vs. your max of $1,681.
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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