Cost of Living in Somerset County, Maine
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Somerset County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Somerset County, Maine
Somerset Renters Stretch to Afford Housing
Somerset County renters spend 18.9% of income on rent—exceeding Maine's state average of 17.4% and approaching national stress levels. With median household income at $56,199 (nearly 25% below the U.S. average), housing cost pressure here rivals some of the nation's least affordable rural markets.
Somerset Struggles With Affordability
At 18.9%, Somerset's rent-to-income ratio ties Penobscot County for the worst affordability in Maine. This western county faces a wage-versus-housing-cost mismatch that leaves renters with limited breathing room in tight household budgets.
Somerset Rents Underscore Rural Challenges
Somerset's median rent of $887 falls between Oxford ($807) and Penobscot ($997), but the lower household income of $56,199 makes this moderate rent consume nearly 19% of earnings. Home values at $155,200 match Piscataquis, but wage levels are notably lower.
Tight Budgets, Limited Flexibility
Renters spend $887 monthly on a median income of $56,199, consuming 18.9% of household earnings—pushing against affordability limits. Homeowners pay $782 in mortgage costs, but combined housing costs near 20% of income leave little margin for other necessities.
Somerset Requires Careful Financial Planning
Somerset offers lower absolute housing costs than coastal Maine, but tight affordability ratios mean you'll want a strong emergency fund and stable income. If relocating here, prioritize remote work or jobs in regionallead employers to ensure housing costs don't overwhelm your budget.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Somerset County
Rent Burden
18.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,311
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Somerset County
Median home value is $155,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,239 vs. your max of $1,311.
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.