Average Rent in Hancock County, ME↑ Rents rising 1.2% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 56,084
Market Overview
Hancock County, ME has rental prices ranging from $1,011/month to $1,594/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,017/month — 27% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $69,630/year, spending $1,017/month on a 1-bedroom represents 18% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Hancock County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,202/month, Hancock County ranks #10 most expensive of the 19 cities tracked in Maine — pricier than 82% of all US cities in our data.
The Hancock County Rental Market
The Hancock County, ME area has a population of about 56,084 and 21% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Hancock County, ME have risen by $14/month (1.2%) over the past year, from $1,188 to $1,202. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Hancock County, ME without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $40,680. The local median household income of $69,630 exceeds that threshold by $28,950, making Hancock County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Hancock County, ME has an unemployment rate of 2.5%, 1.4 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Hancock County, ME Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in MElargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| York | $1,352 | $1,528 | $1,971 | $2,552 | — |
| Portland | $1,379 | $1,563 | $2,011 | $2,464 | — |
| Cumberland County | $1,197 | $1,330 | $1,745 | $2,191 | — |
| York County | $1,162 | $1,312 | $1,616 | $2,134 | — |
| Penobscot County | $839 | $880 | $1,155 | $1,455 | — |
| Bangor | $1,034 | $1,114 | $1,424 | $1,825 | — |
Rent or Buy in Hancock County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Hancock County data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in Hancock County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Hancock CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MESee how Hancock County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Hancock CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋ME Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections