Cost of Living in Maine: Maine, a northeastern state in the United States, known for its beautiful coastlines, forests, and tasty seafood like lobster. The city offers a peaceful environment and high-quality living, making it an attractive place for students and professionals alike.
If you’re a student planning to move here for your higher studies, it’s important to understand the cost of living in Maine. From housing to food and transportation, understanding the expenses will help you plan better. Let’s dive into the details!
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What’s the cost of living in Maine?
The cost of living in Maine is approximately USD 2,338, which is 1.06 times higher than the average in the United States. According to LivingCost data, Maine is the 20th most expensive state and ranks 46th in terms of the best states to live in the U.S. While Maine offers beautiful nature and culture, it can be more expensive compared to other states. Below is the table for more details. To plan your budget more effectively, consider using a cost of living calculator.
| Cost of Living | One Person Approx Cost |
| Total with rent | USD 2338 |
| Without rent | USD 876 |
| Rent & Utilities | USD 1462 |
| Food | USD 662 |
| Transport | USD 49.8 |
Accommodation Costs in Maine
When you’re planning to study abroad, one of the biggest expenses you’ll face is accommodation. In Maine, the cost of where you live can vary depending on the area and type of housing you choose. In bigger cities like Portland, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can cost around USD 1,200–1,500 per month. However, in smaller towns or rural areas, you may find more affordable options, ranging from USD 800–1,300 per month. You can check the table below for more details:
| Apartment Type | Size (m² or ft²) | Approx Price in USD |
| 1 bedroom apartment in city center | 40 m² or 430 ft² | 1356 |
| Cheap 1 bedroom apartment | 40 m² or 430 ft² | 1230 |
| 3 bedroom apartment in city center | 80 m² or 860 ft² | 2690 |
| Cheap 3 bedroom apartment | 80 m² or 860 ft² | 2203 |
Utility Costs in Maine
In Maine, basic utilities like electricity, water, heating, and garbage usually cost between USD 150 to USD 200 per month. Internet services typically range from USD 50 to USD 100. These costs can vary depending on where you live and the size of your home. Below is the table showing the average utility bill:
| Details | Approx Cost / Month (USD) |
| Utility Bill for one person (electricity, heating, water, etc.) | 140 |
| Utility Bill for a Family (electricity, heating, water, etc.) | 216 |
| Internet plan, 50 Mbps+ 1 month unlimited | 67.3 |
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Food & Groceries Costs
As a student, food is another major part of your budget, and the cost of living in Maine can influence how much you spend on meals. On average, eating out at an inexpensive restaurant will cost around USD 24.2 for a meal, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant might cost about USD 98.4.
However, cooking at home is a more affordable option that allows you to save money and enjoy healthy meals. To help you plan your grocery budget, we’ve provided a list of common grocery items and their prices in Maine.
| Grocery Items | Approx Cost (USD) |
| Milk, 1 L | 1.13 |
| Bread, 0.5 kg | 3.55 |
| Rice, 1 kg | 3.19 |
| Eggs, x12 | 4.16 |
| Cheese, 1 kg | 11.7 |
| Chicken Breast, 1 kg | 9.62 |
| Apples, 1 kg | 5.28 |
| Banana, 1 kg | 1.55 |
| Oranges, 1 kg | 4.75 |
| Tomato, 1 kg | 5.93 |
| Potato, 1 kg | 3.1 |
| Onion, 1 kg | 3.21 |
| Water, 1 L | 1.15 |
| Coca-Cola / Pepsi, 2 L | 2.39 |
| Cold medicine, 1 week | 8.66 |
| Hair Shampoo | 6.08 |
| Toilet paper, 4 rolls | 4.21 |
| Toothpaste, 1 tube | 2 |
Transportation Costs
Getting around Maine can be done in various ways, depending on where you’re living and studying. The cost of transportation can vary, but there are several options to consider. According to data from the LivingCost website, the prices for various transportation options in Maine can vary depending on your location and mode of travel. You can find a detailed breakdown of these costs in the table below.
| Transport Type | Approx cost in USD |
| Local transport ticket | 1.96 |
| Monthly ticket for local transport | 59.6 |
| Taxi ride, 8 km or 5 miles | 13.6 |
| Gas / Petrol, 1 liter | 0.92 |
Entertainment and Leisure Costs
Living in Maine as a student isn’t just about paying for essentials like rent and groceries—you’ll also want to have fun and enjoy your time there! Maine offers plenty of opportunities for recreation, including beautiful parks in the USA, outdoor activities, local restaurants, and more. Here’s a breakdown of some entertainment and fun expenses you might want to plan for:
| Miscellaneous Items | Approx Cost (USD) |
| Gym Membership, 1 month | 55 |
| Cinema Ticket, 1 person | 13.8 |
| Haircut, simple | 18.9 |
| Brand Jeans | 39.9 |
| Brand Sneakers | 86.1 |
Average Tuition Fees in Maine
When planning to study in Maine, one of the main things to consider is the cost of studying. The tuition fees can vary depending on the institution and whether you’re an in-state or out-of-state student The average tuition fee at the University of Maine is around USD 36,870. You can find more details about tuition fees for different universities in the table below:
| Institution | In-State Tuition (Annual) | Out-of-State Tuition (Annual) | International Tuition (Annual) |
| University of Maine | USD 12,720 | USD 36,870 | USD 36,870 |
| University of Maine at Fort Kent | USD 7,800 | USD 13,260 | USD 13,260 |
| Maine Community College System | USD 2,880 | USD 5,760 | USD 5,760 |
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Tips for Saving Money in Maine
Living in Maine can be slightly expensive, but with smart planning, you can manage your expenses effectively. Here are some tips for saving money while living in Maine:
- Explore Affordable Housing Options: Consider renting in less expensive areas like rural towns or suburbs instead of major cities like Portland. Look for roommates to share rent and utilities.
- Take Advantage of Local Markets: Buy fresh produce and seafood from local farmers’ markets, which are often cheaper than supermarkets.
- Use Public Transportation: Use local bus services or carpools to save on transportation costs. If you’re in a walkable town, consider walking or biking.
- Embrace Maine’s Natural Attractions: Enjoy free or low-cost outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and visiting state parks instead of spending on expensive entertainment.
- Shop Smart: Take advantage of discounts and sales at local stores. Use coupon apps and loyalty programs to save on groceries and daily essentials.
- Save on Utilities: Reduce heating costs by insulating your home during the colder months. Switch to energy-efficient appliances to lower electricity bills.
- Dine Out Less Frequently: Cook at home instead of eating out. Maine’s fresh seafood can be prepared affordably at home. Look for student discounts or special deals when dining out.
- Use a Budgeting App: Track your expenses with apps to identify where you can cut back and save more.
- Take Advantage of Free Resources: Visit public libraries for free internet, books, and community programs. Check for free events in your area, such as festivals or workshops.
Ultimately, Maine is a great place to live, with many affordable options if you plan your budget well. While the cost of living may vary depending on your location and lifestyle choices, careful budgeting can help you make the most of what Maine has to offer. Whether it’s enjoying the state’s stunning natural beauty, savouring local seafood, or immersing yourself in its vibrant communities, living in Maine can be a rewarding experience without breaking the bank.
We hope you enjoyed reading our blog on the cost of living in Maine. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal student accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs on Cost of Living in Maine
The cost of living in Maine is approximately USD 2,338, which is 1.06 times higher than the average in the United States.
Yes, Maine is relatively expensive to live in compared to many other states. The cost of living is 1.06 times higher than the national average. It ranks 20th for the most expensive states in the U.S.
To live comfortably in Maine, a single person would need a salary of around USD 45,000 TO USD 50,000 per year. However, the amount needed can vary based on lifestyle, housing choices, and other factors.
The average rent in Maine varies depending on the area. In the city centre, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is around USD 1,356 per month. For a 3-bedroom apartment, the average rent is around USD 2,690.
Florida is generally cheaper to live in than Maine. The cost of living in Florida is lower, especially in terms of rent and utilities. Florida also has no state income tax, which can make it more affordable compared to Maine.
The cost of living in Maine is higher than in Texas. Maine’s cost of living is around USD 2,338, whereas Texas tends to be more affordable, with a lower overall cost of living, especially in housing and utilities. Texas is generally considered one of the more affordable states to live in.
Groceries in Maine can be more expensive than the national average, with items like milk and meat costing slightly more than in many other states.
Maine is one of the safest states in the U.S., with a low crime rate. It’s often ranked among the top states for safety and overall quality of life.
Maine experiences four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and mild summers. It can be chilly, particularly in winter, with temperatures often dipping below freezing.
Maine offers a favourable environment for small businesses, with many resources and grants available to entrepreneurs. However, it can be more challenging to grow a business in the state due to its smaller population.
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