Rent Affordability for Maine (2026)
Maine (ME) Key Facts
Average 1 B R Rent
$1,200
Median Monthly Income
$5,167
Recommended Max Rent (30% Rule)
$1,550
Affordability Gap
Affordable
Rent to Income Ratio
23.2%
How This Calculator Works in Maine
This rent affordability calculator helps you determine how much rent you can reasonably afford in Maine based on your income and the 30% rule. Enter your monthly income and desired rent to see whether your housing costs are within a healthy range. The calculator also shows how your situation compares to the Maine average.
Maine Overview
With a median household income of $62,000, Maine residents can afford roughly $1,550/month in rent under the 30% guideline. Average 1-bedroom rent is about $1,200/month. State income taxes in Maine reduce your take-home pay, so base your rent budget on net income rather than gross for a more realistic picture.
How Maine Compares
Maine's rent-to-income ratio of 23.2% is within the recommended 30% range. In neighboring New Hampshire, the ratio is 20.2%. Nationally, about half of renters spend more than 30% of their income on housing, highlighting the widespread challenge of rental affordability.
| State | Top Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $1,400 | Average 1BR rent is $1,400 with median monthly income of $6,917. The 30% rule allows $2,075 for rent, which covers average rent. |
| Vermont | $1,300 | Average 1BR rent is $1,300 with median monthly income of $5,250. The 30% rule allows $1,575 for rent, which covers average rent. |
| Massachusetts | $2,100 | Average 1BR rent is $2,100 with median monthly income of $7,417. The 30% rule allows $2,225 for rent, which covers average rent. |
In Maine, the median household earns $62,000 annually ($5,167 per month). Using the 30% rule, the recommended maximum rent is $1,550 per month. With average 1BR rents at $1,200, rents are within the recommended affordability range. Nationally, about half of renters are considered cost-burdened (paying more than 30% of income on housing).
Tips for Maine Residents
- 1The 30% rule suggests spending no more than 30% of gross income on rent. In Maine, with a median household income of $62,000, the maximum recommended rent is about $1,550/month.
- 2Average 1-bedroom rent in Maine is roughly $1,200/month. This is within or near the 30% guideline for the median household, indicating reasonable affordability at the state level.
- 3State income taxes in Maine reduce your take-home pay, so base your rent budget on net income rather than gross for a more realistic picture.
- 4Beyond rent, budget for utilities ($100-$300/month), renters insurance ($15-$30/month), and any parking or pet fees. These can add 10-20% on top of your base rent in Maine.
- 5If you are spending more than 30% of income on rent in Maine, look into housing assistance programs such as Section 8 vouchers, state-funded rental assistance, or employer housing benefits.