Cost of Living in Maine: Average Rent, Groceries, Utilities, and More

Living in Maine offers a blend of rugged coastal beauty and small-town charm, but how does it stack up financially? The cost of living in Maine tends to be higher than the national average, but affordable in comparison to its New England neighbors. Whether you’re eyeing an apartment in Portland with its vibrant downtown or a cozy home in Saco not too far away, understanding the cost of housing, utilities, and everyday essentials is key to planning life in this picturesque New England state.

Housing costs: Median home prices and average rent in Maine

Housing costs in Maine strike a balance within the New England region, offering some relief compared to neighboring states like Massachusetts and Connecticut, where rents and home prices often soar higher. The average rent in Maine is $1,630, just shy of the $1,645 national average, making it a competitive option for those drawn to New England’s charm. Maine offers a mix of options: apartments in Portland tend to be on the pricier side, reflecting its popularity and amenities, while towns like Bangor and Lewiston provide more affordable alternatives. Similarly, home prices in Maine, though rising, remain lower than in many New England markets, making the cost of living in Maine appealing to those looking to lay down roots on the East Coast.

Maine housing costs: Average rents and median home sale prices

Housing costs in popular cities in Maine

Bangor

Nestled in central Maine, Bangor offers a cost-effective living option compared to the state’s average. With one-bedroom apartments renting for around $1,370, it sits well below the national average rent of $1,645 and even under the average rent in Maine of $1,630. Homebuyers will find Bangor’s housing market approachable, with the median home price at $270,000—significantly under the national median of $428,000. Bangor’s affordability, combined with its cultural offerings and proximity to outdoor adventures, makes it a practical and appealing choice for those thinking of moving to Maine.

Lewiston

Lewiston strikes a balance between affordability and urban convenience. With one-bedroom apartments averaging $1,300, renting here costs less than both the Maine and national averages. The city’s median home sale price of $325,000 provides an attainable option for those considering homeownership. Lewiston’s mix of historic charm and cultural amenities enhances its appeal as a more budget-friendly destination when exploring the average rent in Maine and regional housing costs.

Portland

Portland, Maine’s largest city, is where urban living meets coastal charm, but it comes at a premium. With the average rent for a one-bedroom at $2,280, Portland far exceeds both the state average of $1,630 and the national average of $1,645. The median home sale price also reflects its desirability, coming in at $615,000—significantly above the national median. While housing costs are steep, Portland’s thriving arts scene, dining options, and proximity to the ocean make it a sought-after destination, offering a unique lifestyle that justifies the higher cost of living.

Utility costs in Maine are slightly above nationwide averages 

Utility costs in Maine tend to run higher than the national average, adding to the overall cost of living in the state. Basic services like gas, electricity, water, and sewer total around $392.73 per month, and when you factor in internet and phone bills, the monthly average climbs to $685.09. That’s noticeably above the U.S. average of $609.90, which reflects Maine’s colder climate and the need for additional heating during its long winters. While the higher utility costs may add to monthly expenses, the trade-off is living in a state known for its natural beauty and quieter way of life—a value that many Mainers find well worth the price.

Maine residents spend about 5% more on groceries than the U.S. average

Grocery costs in Maine are about 5% higher than the national average, but regionally, they’re quite reasonable compared to other New England states. The slight premium reflects Maine’s rural landscape and the logistics of importing certain goods, though local staples like fresh seafood, produce, and dairy offer excellent value. Whether you’re grabbing essentials from a chain store or browsing local farmers’ markets, grocery prices in Maine are manageable, especially when stacked against the higher costs seen in nearby states. For most, it’s a fair trade-off for the quality and charm of living in Maine.

Expect slightly higher transportation costs in Maine

Transportation costs in Maine are relatively in line with national averages, with gas priced at $3.05 per gallon compared to the U.S. average of $3.03. However, Maine’s expansive rural geography often makes owning a car essential, particularly for those living outside major cities. This means residents should account for additional costs like routine maintenance, insurance, and vehicle registration. Public transportation options like buses are available in larger cities such as Portland and Bangor, but these services are limited or nonexistent in smaller towns. With fewer alternatives to driving, owning a car is almost a requirement for most Mainers, making transportation a key component of the cost of living in Maine.

Healthcare costs are higher in Maine, on average

Healthcare costs in Maine are slightly higher than national averages, making them an important factor to consider when calculating the overall cost of living. Individual expenses will vary based on your coverage, specific needs, and the providers you choose. In Portland, for example, a trip to the dentist averages $124.25—about 6% higher than the national average of $116.86. Doctor visits in Portland are significantly pricier, averaging $185.86 compared to the national average of $142.74. While these rates reflect Maine’s relatively high healthcare costs, the quality of care and access to providers in urban areas like Portland are often excellent. That said, rural parts of Maine may offer fewer options, requiring residents to travel for specialized services, which could add to overall expenses.

Fairly average taxes contribute to a manageable cost of living in Maine

Taxes in Maine play a notable role in the overall cost of living. The state’s graduated income tax ranges from 5.80% to 7.15%, which is on the higher end compared to many other states. On the bright side, Maine’s 5.50% state sales tax rate is fairly straightforward since there are no additional local sales taxes—keeping it competitive with the national average, which tends to fall between 5-7%. For homeowners, Maine’s effective property tax rate is 0.96%, which is slightly below the national average, offering some relief for those investing in real estate. While taxes can add up, the lack of local sales tax and reasonable property tax rates can balance out costs, especially for residents who own homes.

How much do I need to earn to live in Maine?

To live comfortably in Maine, it’s helpful to use the 30% rule, a budgeting guideline suggesting you spend no more than 30% of your income on housing. With the average rent in Maine at $1,630, you’d need to earn at least $5,433 per month, or about $65,200 annually, to stay within this rule. However, housing costs vary across the state. For example, renting a one-bedroom apartment in Portland—where the average is $2,280—requires a monthly income of $7,600, or around $91,200 annually, just for housing to remain within that same 30%. Keep in mind, this is a starting point; your actual needs may vary depending on expenses like utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare, which are all higher than the national average. Planning a budget that considers these factors will give you a more realistic picture of what you’ll need to thrive in Maine.

Methodology

Average 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom rent sourced from Rent. Median home sale price, state average monthly rent, national rent prices, and cost of living data sourced from Redfin.