Back

Cost of Living in
Maine

Living cost is 14% higher than avg
Families spend upto $10,054/mo on avg
Homeowners spend $9,112/mo on avg
Renters spend $6,770/mo on avg

Cost of Living in
Maine

Enter the city you're moving from

Moving From

Moving To

Your Pre-Tax Income

A Breakdown of the Cost of Living in Maine

U.S. Avg.

Maine

Difference Diff

Home Price

$534,127

$611,028

14%

Apartment Rent (per month)

$1,354

$2,994

121%

U.S. Avg.

Maine

Difference Diff

Phone (per month)

$219.9

$190.21

14%

Total Energy (per month)

$194.67

$289.55

49%

U.S. Avg.

Maine

Difference Diff

Grocery Staples

Corn Flakes (per box)

$5.88

$6.03

Frozen Corn (per bag)

$2.33

$2.32

Frozen Meal (per package)

$4.75

$3.78

20%

Cooking Oil (per bottle)

$6.00

$10.08

68%

Detergent (per bottle)

$18.81

$21.36

14%

Facial Tissues (per box)

$2.54

$2.5

Sweet Peas (per can)

$1.74

$1.85

Sugar (per bag)

$4.46

$5.41

21%

Bread (per loaf)

$3.66

$3.89

Frying Chicken (per lb)

$1.64

$1.45

12%

Meat & Poultry

Chicken (per lb)

$1.67

$1.53

Steak (per lb)

$13.56

$17.03

26%

Sausage (per lb)

$4.89

$4.87

Ground Beef (per lb)

$7.90

$7.65

Snacks & Beverages

Soft Drink (per bottle)

$3.08

$3.03

Potato Chips (per bag)

$5.08

$4.11

19%

Coffee (per lb)

$5.92

$6.39

Fresh Orange Juice (per half gallon)

$4.85

$4.79

Fruits & Vegetables

Peaches (per can)

$4.29

$2.74

36%

Lettuce (per head)

$1.85

$2.03

10%

Bananas (per lb)

$0.62

$0.76

23%

Potatoes (per bag)

$4.61

$5.08

10%

Dairy & Eggs

Parmesan Cheese (per lb)

$4.46

$5.18

16%

Margarine (per lb)

$1.26

$1.56

24%

Eggs (per dozen)

$4.50

$5.04

12%

Whole Milk (per gallon)

$4.02

$4.85

21%

Seafood

Chunk Light Tuna (per can)

$1.06

$1.48

40%

U.S. Avg.

Maine

Difference Diff

Tire Balance (per tire)

$69.15

$72

Gasoline (per gallon)

$2.82

$3.06

U.S. Avg.

Maine

Difference Diff

Doctor Visit (per visit)

$113.53

$211.93

87%

Dentist Visit (per visit)

$144.14

$134.93

Ibuprofen (per bottle)

$11.48

$12.06

Prescription Drug (per month)

$21.09

$21.32

Optometrist Visit (per visit)

$93.18

$198.86

113%

U.S. Avg.

Maine

Difference Diff

Women’s Slacks

$34.9

$36.36

Boys’ Jeans

$29.45

$27.4

Men’s Shirt

$39.14

$40.62

Wine (per bottle)

$7.14

$12.76

79%

Beer (per 6-pack)

$10.78

$10.55

Veterinary Services (per visit)

$65.41

$96.22

47%

Tennis Balls (per pack)

$3.49

$3.64

Yoga (per class)

$11.89

$18.89

59%

Movie (per ticket)

$11.41

$14.18

24%

Newspaper (per copy)

$18.96

$7.14

62%

Washer Repair (per service)

$109.38

$70

36%

Women Slacks

$34.88

$35.45

Boy Jeans

$29.51

$25.04

15%

Man Dress Shirt

$39.05

$42.08

Dry Cleaning (per item)

$13.25

$20.05

51%

Shampoo (per bottle)

$1.56

$1.53

Toothpaste (per tube)

$3.59

$4.08

14%

Beauty Salon (per visit)

$46.61

$56.25

21%

Haircut (per cut)

$26.79

$29.75

11%

Fried Chicken (per serving)

$4.36

$5.84

34%

Pizza (per pizza)

$11.88

$11.76

Hamburger (per serving)

$5.25

$6.52

24%

The cost of living in Maine is 14% higher than the national average. Maine's 3,500-mile coastline, pristine wilderness, and world-class skiing at Sugarloaf create year-round appeal despite its harsh winters. With the unemployment rate consistently below 3%, and Acadia National Park hosting over 3.5 million visitors annually, demand for housing and services in the state pushes prices above southern markets while remaining competitive within New England.

Housing is 14% higher than the national median. The median home price in Maine is $396,405, which is lower than in Massachusetts at $615,000, but higher than the national median of $375,000. If you're buying a new house in Maine, plan to put down 15 to 20% of the home price upfront as a down payment. On top of that, monthly mortgage payments in the state run 25% to 35% higher than the national average, due to property taxes and heating costs.
Renting in Maine is 121.1% higher than the national average of $1,645. The rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Maine costs around $1,678 per month, while a two-bedroom can average $1,828. But even with those prices, you probably shouldn’t get your hopes up for dedicated parking spots or central air conditioning in most Maine rentals.
Utilities are 15% higher than the national average. That's before winter heating bills, which cost between $200 and $350 per month during peak season, depending on your heating source and home insulation. Basic services, including electricity, water, and sewer, total almost $400 monthly. Maine's cold climate and older housing stock also mean ongoing heating system maintenance costs in rural areas.
Food prices in Maine are 2% higher than the US median. A gallon of milk costs roughly $4.30, compared to $3.75 in New Hampshire or $3.95 in Vermont. If you're a family of four, you can expect to spend $1,100 each month on groceries. If you're a single adult, you might spend around $400 per month, depending on your eating habits.
Transportation costs are 9.9% higher than the US average. The gas prices in Maine, USA, is $3.34 per gallon, which is comparable to New Hampshire ($3.30), and cheaper than Massachusetts ($3.50). Monthly car insurance premiums average $145 in Maine, the second-cheapest nationally. However, costs can add up with winter tire changes, salt damage repairs, and regular maintenance.
Healthcare costs in Maine are 28.26% higher than the national average. A routine check-up is $125, compared to $115 in North Carolina or $105 in Tennessee. So, Maine is a more expensive option for basic healthcare compared to southern states. If you break your leg skiing at Sugarloaf, expect an ER visit to cost around $2,800 without insurance.
Miscellaneous expenses are 0.05% lower than the national average. This covers winter sports gear, outdoor equipment for hiking Acadia National Park, and seasonal activities like blueberry picking. A family day at the Maine Maritime Museum costs $60, while whale watching tours in Bar Harbor cost $45 to $65 per person.

Moving to Maine? Be ready for cozy winters and a slower pace of life. But hey, the scenic coastline and outdoor adventures are priceless—just make sure your budget covers everything else!

👉 Next Step: Compare single-family homes in Maine. Cost of living data for Maine is sourced in part from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Figures are provided for informational purposes only and may not reflect real-time changes.

Find your
dream home in Maine

Browse Homes For Sale in Maine

Is Living in Maine Expensive?

Compared to the national averages, Maine’s living expenses are affordable. The average price of living in Maine is 14% higher than the national average. Housing costs are manageable, 14% higher then the US median but well below neighboring states.

With a budget of $611,028.00, you'll get a sizable home in Maine with garage space. In contrast, the same amount will only fetch you a small condo in Boston, or a modest house in suburban Connecticut. Maine’s reasonable food prices, moderate utility costs, and low transportation expenses help offset housing premiums.

Housing in Maine

If you're buying a home in Maine, there are several hidden costs you need to factor in. Housing in the state is 14% higher than the US average, making it pricier than southern markets but affordable within New England. With mortgage rates typically ranging from 6.5% to 7%, and property taxes adding another $1,400 annually, your monthly payments require careful budgeting. Let's break down the costs for a Maine house:

Buying a House in Maine

For young adults or single people, homes in Bangor or Lewiston are popular picks, as they offer access to employment centers like Eastern Maine Medical Center, Bates College, and everyday conveniences like Shaw's on Broadway, Hannaford in the Broadway Shopping Center, and the Maine Mall in South Portland. Homes here average around $270,000. At that price, your mortgage payments will range from $1,800 to $2,200 per month, excluding insurance and taxes. If you're working with a tighter budget, homes in Portland near the Old Port, or homes in Augusta close to the State House offer more affordable entry points, typically between $200,000 and $350,000.
If you're a married couple with young children (under 6), expect to pay between $350,000 and $550,000 for a home in Scarborough, Cape Elizabeth, near Fort Gorges Park, or homes in Westbrook close to Riverbank Park. Homes with yards in Westbrook near the Presumpscot River are a popular choice for families. Schools like Cape Elizabeth Elementary, Scarborough Middle School, and Westbrook High School are highly rated for their academic programs and outdoor education opportunities, from nature trails to environmental science programs.
For married couples with older children (ages 6 to 17), you can find homes in Falmouth near Mackworth Island State Park, homes in Yarmouth close to the Royal River Park, and homes in Cumberland by Twin Brook Recreation Area for $400,000 to $700,000. These areas offer outdoor spaces, as well as access to top schools like Falmouth High School, Yarmouth High School, and Greely High School in Cumberland.

Renting a House in Maine

Rent in Maine costs 121.1% higher than the national average. While the typical US rent sits around $1,645 per month, Maine renters pay upwards of $1,678, depending on the neighborhood and home size. Let's break down average rental costs across the state:

If you're a young adult or single, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Portland's Arts District or South Portland near Bug Light Park is around $2,280 per month. Portland is known for its Old Port district, vibrant brewery scene (including Allagash and Shipyard Brewing) and its walkable downtown near Deering Oaks Park. Meanwhile, South Portland offers scenic waterfront access at Bug Light Park, and convenient commutes to downtown via the Casco Bay Bridge. If you want more affordable options, you can look at homes in Augusta near the State Capitol or Bangor close to the University of Maine system, which range from $1,000 to $1,370 monthly.
If you're a married couple with young children (under 6), you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $3,200 per month for a multi-family home in Wells or homes in Freeport close to the L.L.Bean flagship store and Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park, or homes in Topsham near the Androscoggin Swinging Bridge. They offer amenities like Coffin Elementary School playground, Brunswick Recreation Center, and quality schools. Brunswick is home to Bowdoin College and the Brunswick Naval Air Station memorial, while Freeport boasts L.L.Bean headquarters, the Desert of Maine attraction, and excellent outdoor access to Bradbury Mountain State Park.
For families with older children (ages 6 to 17), rent in Maine for a home in Gorham near the University of Southern Maine campus, or a home in Camden close to Camden Hills State Park and Camden Public Library, typically costs between $2,500 and $4,000 per month. Rentals near top schools like Gorham High School, Camden Hills Regional High School, and Rockport Elementary tend to be at the higher end of this range.
If you're downsizing, you can find one- or two-bedroom condos and homes for rent in Maine for around $1,500 to $2,200 per month. Options include condos near Mother's Beach in Rangeley, homes in Wells close to Wells Beach and the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, and rentals in Bar Harbor near the entrance to Acadia National Park. These neighborhoods offer practical, low-maintenance housing and easy access to local amenities such as Kennebunk Beach, the Wells Community Center, Maine Medical Center – Wells, and York Hospital. Many seniors choose smaller homes in these areas for a simpler, stress-free lifestyle.
International students should budget about $2,000 per month for a two-bedroom apartment in Orono near the University of Maine campus, Old Town close to the Penobscot River, or nearby areas like Stillwater Village. In fact, sharing apartments in student-friendly areas near Pat's Pizza, the Steam Plant Grill, or University Mall can reduce your rent costs by 20% to 30%.

Utilities in Maine

Food and Groceries in Maine

Food prices in Maine are 2% higher than the national average. Let's take a closer look at how much you'll spend on groceries and staples in Maine:

Proteins for Family Dinners: Fresh lobster costs around $12 to $18 per pound seasonally, making summer cook-outs a bit of a luxury. Ground beef averages $6.50 per pound, and breakfast sausage is $4.75. At $1.45 per pound, a whole chicken is the most budget-friendly option.
Kitchen Essentials: Staples also carry higher price tags. A gallon of whole milk is priced at $4.30—that's 8% higher than the national average. A dozen eggs cost $3.20, which is 12% more than the national average. Coffee costs $5.25 per container, while maple syrup from local producers costs $12 to $15 per bottle. Margarine costs $1.50, cheddar cheese $4.25, sugar $4.40, and fresh apple cider is $4.75 per bottle.
Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh produce reflects seasonal availability. Wild blueberries (Maine’s signature crop) cost $6 to $9 per pint during August harvest at places like Treworgy Family Orchards in Levant, Staples Homestead in Falmouth, or Sweetser's Apple Barrel in Cumberland. Lettuce is $1.75 per head, 15% higher than the US median. Local apples from orchards like McDougal Orchards in Springvale, Ricker Hill Orchards in Turner, and Libby & Son U-Picks in Limerick are competitively priced at $3 to $4 per bag, while winter imports carry premiums.
Snacks and Frozen Meals: Potato chips cost around $3.75 per bag on average, though prices vary by brand and size. Frozen peas are priced at $1.55 per bag, which is 6% less than the national average. Frozen corn costs $1.80 per bag, slightly above the national average, but still reasonable for your side dish.
Other Grocery Expenses: Cooking oil is priced at $8.25 per bottle, 3% higher than the national average. Household essentials like facial tissues at $2 are 6% less expensive than the national average, while laundry detergent costs $19.50, which is 5% more. Paper towels costs $3.65, and dish soap cost $4.10 are more or less on par with national averages.

Transportation in Maine

Healthcare in Maine

Healthcare costs in Maine are 28.26% higher above the national average, adding strain to an otherwise manageable cost of living. However, the state's focus on preventive care and an outdoor lifestyle can help offset some medical expenses. Here's a breakdown of healthcare costs in Maine:

Doctor Visit — $125+ per visit: Routine care in Maine averages about $125 per visit. Typical appointments for issues like cold and flu symptoms, blood pressure monitoring, or prescription renewals usually fall within this price range. However, depending on the healthcare provider, specialized consultations (such as cardiology or ongoing care for chronic illnesses) can be more expensive.
Dentist Visit — $135+ per visit: This covers routine cleanings and exams. A basic dental cleaning costs around $135, while a cavity filling may cost $175 to $225. Compared to cities like Boston ($150 for a cleaning) or New York ($145 for a cleaning), Maine remains competitive. Even minor procedures like X-rays or fluoride treatments tend to be 5% to 8% above national averages.
Optometrist Visit — $140+ per visit: Routine eye exams in Maine cost about $140, slightly above the national average of $130. This price includes vision checks and prescription updates. Contact lens fittings, treatment for eye conditions, and other specialized services can add $60 to $175 more.
Prescription Drugs — $145+ per package: For chronic conditions like high blood pressure, a month's supply of Lisinopril can cost $15 to $25 without insurance. Treating type 2 diabetes with Metformin costs $18 to $40 per month. For short-term needs, a common antibiotic like Amoxicillin may cost $25 to $35.
Over-the-Counter Meds — $12+ per package: Everyday essentials like ibuprofen, allergy relief, and cold medications like DayQuil or Mucinex average $12 to $16 per package. Whether you're nursing winter dry skin or fighting off spring pollen, a well-stocked medicine cabinet goes a long way.

Healthcare in Maine costs more than in some other states due to rural delivery challenges and an aging population. The state's outdoor lifestyle and clean air can help reduce certain health-related expenses, such as respiratory issues. But whether you need regular check-ups, physical therapy, or an unexpected urgent care visit, Maine's healthcare costs require careful budgeting.

It's a good idea to get health insurance, as the average cost of a doctor's visit in Maine is around $125*. The monthly premium of a health insurance plan in the state typically ranges between $450* and $850*.

*Disclaimer: These figures are averages and can vary based on individual circumstances and specific insurance providers. It's recommended to compare plans and consult with insurance professionals to find the best coverage for your needs.

Miscellaneous Costs in Maine

Miscellaneous expenses in Maine are 0.05% lower than the national average. From outdoor gear to entertainment, Maine offers budget-friendly recreation options:

Food and Drinks: Dining out in Maine varies by season and location. A burger at a local diner like Becky's Diner in Portland, Dysart's Restaurant in Bangor, or Miss Brunswick Diner in Brunswick averages $4.85, while a sit-down meal with an entrée, side, and beverage can reach $25 per person. Popular dishes like lobster rolls at Holy Donut in Portland, McLaughlin's Lobster Shack in Lincoln, or Shaw's Wharf in New Harbor cost $18 to $25 each, and a slice of pizza at Otto Pizza locations or Flatbread Company is $2.75 to $4.50. A cup of brewed coffee at local spots like Coffee By Design, Wicked Joe Coffee, or Carrabassett Coffee averages $3.75, while a local craft beer at breweries like Allagash, Shipyard, or Maine Beer Company costs $6 to $7 at most bars.
Personal Care and Grooming: Haircuts average $22, while a beauty salon visit (including services like shampoo, blow-dry, and basic styling) costs around $42. Skincare treatments typically range from $50 to $100 per session, manicures average about $22, and spa services like massages begin at $65.
Clothing and Laundry: Keeping up with Maine's outdoor lifestyle means investing in quality winter gear and hiking equipment. Expect to spend about $32 on a flannel shirt and $25 for work jeans. You can professionally dry-clean your clothes for about $14.50 per visit, but remember, at-home laundry is always more budget-friendly!
Fitness and Entertainment: A yoga class at studios like Prana Yoga in Portland, Down East Yoga in Bar Harbor, or Midcoast Recreation Center in Rockport costs $16. Movie tickets at locations like Nickelodeon Cinemas in Portland, Railroad Square Cinema in Waterville, or Criterion Theatre in Bar Harbor cost $11.25 each. Or you could take a cue from the locals and enjoy low-cost outdoor activities, like hiking Acadia National Park trails, skiing at Sugarloaf Mountain, or cycling along the Eastern Trail from Saco to South Portland.
Pet-Related Expenses: A routine veterinary visit costs $62, but emergency care can quickly climb past $450. The good news is that Maine boasts several pet-friendly beaches, like Popham Beach State Park in Phippsburg, Ferry Beach State Park in Saco, and Old Orchard Beach during off-season hours. Moreover, Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island, Camden Hills State Park near Camden, and Bradbury Mountain State Park in Pownal have leash-friendly trails.

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Maine?

The average salary in Maine is 14% higher. While this income may be enough for some, most residents will need more to cover the state’s high heating bills, rural transportation costs, and growing childcare expenses.

Homeowners spend $109,344.00 per year: Mortgage payments, property taxes, and high winter heating costs drive up annual expenses. In cities like Portland or Bangor, maintenance and utilities add significantly to monthly budgets.

Renters spend $81,240.00 per year: Monthly rent, transportation, groceries, and heating bills can strain renter budgets in coastal and urban areas. Even in smaller towns, seasonal jobs and high fuel costs add to the challenge.

Families with kids spend $120,648.00 per year: Childcare, healthcare, education, and food push family expenses well past the average income. Dual-income households still need to budget carefully, especially during long winters and the back-to-school season.

Is Maine Too Expensive? Find Homes in Maine as Per Your Budget

Maine Homes Under

$100,000

Maine Homes Under

$200,000

Maine Homes Under

$300,000

Maine Homes Under

$400,000

Maine Homes Under

$500,000

Maine Homes Under

$600,000

Maine Homes Under

$700,000

Maine Homes Under

$800,000

Maine Homes Under

$900,000

Maine Homes Under

$1M

Discover your place in Maine

View neighborhood insights, browse popular homes, and shortlist the ones you like on any device.

Download the Houzeo Mobile App Now!

What is a Cost of Living Calculator?

A cost of living calculator helps you compare the expenses required to live in a different location. The calculator factors in various living expenses like housing, food, utilities, transportation, fitness, and entertainment, etc., and helps you estimate how much salary you need to live in that city. Since the cost of goods and services varies in different cities, a Maine cost of living calculator can help you make the decision to move to this city or not.

About Cost of Living Data

The data used to determine Maine's cost of living is sourced from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Published since 1968, COLI data is recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This organization regularly updates its data to offer a detailed and well-researched view of living expenses in cities across the country. An independent Advisory Board reviews C2ER’s data collection methodologies and quarterly publications to ensure consistency and quality. For more information, visit www.coli.org. Data published as of Oct 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is gas in Maine?

The average gas price in Maine averages $3.34 per gallon. Prices may rise during winter months due to heating oil demands, or around high-traffic periods like summer tourist season. Additionally, rural routes and longer distances can lead to more frequent fill-ups.

Is Maine a good place to live?

Yes. Maine is a good place to live if you like nature, a strong sense of community, and a slower pace of life. It has strong public schools in towns like Cape Elizabeth and Falmouth, and reliable healthcare at places like Maine Medical Center. Many people choose Maine for its safety, clean air, and access to the coast and mountains.

What is the average cost of living in Maine?

The average cost of living in Maine is 14% higher than the national average. Portland and Bar Harbor tend to be expensive, while Augusta, Lewiston, and Bangor are among the most affordable places to live in Maine.

What is the average rent in Maine?

The average rent in Maine for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,678 per month. However, premium areas like Portland and coastal towns cost more, as they have cultural attractions and access to the ocean.

How much is a 2-bedroom apartment in Maine?

A two-bedroom apartment in Maine costs between $1,800 and $2,994.00 per month. Expect higher costs for ocean views or luxury buildings in Portland, Bar Harbor, or Kennebunkport.

What is the average price of utilities in Maine?

Utilities in Maine range from $400 to $685 per month. This includes electricity, heating, water, sewer, internet, and phone prices, with higher costs during winter.

How much is childcare in Maine?

If you're moving to Maine, expect childcare costs to range between $800 and $1,200 per month for toddlers. Prices vary by location, with daycare centers in Portland and South Portland typically costing more than in-home care options in rural communities.

Is it expensive to live in Maine?

No, living in Maine isn’t expensive. In fact, the overall cost of living is 3% lower than the national average. While housing is slightly above the US median, it’s still far more affordable than in nearby states. Other everyday expenses like food, utilities, and transportation also remain reasonable.