Maine, known as the "Pine Tree State", is a moderately expensive New England state with growing remote-worker demand. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Pine Tree State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Maine for a single person earning the median income of $63,200/year:
Each category shows how Maine compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Maine.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Maine.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Maine:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Maine, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Maine is $365,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,100/month. With a housing cost index of 107, Maine housing is 7% more expensive than the national average.
Housing costs in Maine are above average but manageable for households earning the median income. The 30% rule (spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing) is achievable in most areas.
Maine has a state income tax rate of 7.15%. On the median household income of $63,200, you will pay approximately $4,519/year in state income tax ($377/month). This is a moderate rate that most households can absorb.
The average single person in Maine spends approximately $430/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,075-$1,290/month. The food cost index of 102 means groceries in Maine are 2% above the national average.
Gas prices in Maine average $3.45/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $2,070/year in fuel costs.
Maine healthcare costs are 13% above the national average (index: 113). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Maine is approximately $6,780 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Maine averages $1,000/month ($12,000/year). This is a substantial but manageable expense for dual-income households. Many families in Maine find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Maine is a higher-cost state, but the higher expenses often come with higher incomes, better infrastructure, and more job opportunities. The median household income of $63,200 helps offset the 9% premium on living costs.
See all Maine financial calculators:
Maine (ME) has a cost of living index of 109, meaning it is 9% more expensive than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 107. The median rent is $1,100/month and the median home price is $365,000. Maine ranks #37 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Maine is approximately $82,160/year ($6,847/month). For a family of four, aim for $139,040/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($430/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Maine is $63,200.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Maine is approximately $1,100/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,485/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Portland, Lewiston, Bangor are the most popular metro areas. Housing costs in Maine are above average — budget carefully.
Maine is a more expensive state (COL index 109), but offers strong job markets and high median incomes ($63,200). Popular areas include Portland, Lewiston, Bangor.
The most affordable areas in Maine are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Maine, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Portland metro) and more affordable areas. Auburn and Augusta tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Maine for a single person is approximately $430 ($1,075 for a family of four). Maine food costs are 2% above the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Maine is approximately $145. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $319/month. Maine utilities are 12% above the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Maine has a state income tax rate of 7.15%. On the median household income of $63,200, that is approximately $4,519/year in state income tax. This is among the highest in the nation.