RentData

Average Rent in Knox County, ME↓ Rents falling 1.5% YoY

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 40,860

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, Census, BLSMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Knox County, ME has rental prices ranging from $1,101/month to $1,975/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,236/month — 12% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $71,903/year, spending $1,236/month on a 1-bedroom represents 21% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Knox County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,503/month, Knox County ranks #8 most expensive of the 19 cities tracked in Maine — pricier than 89% of all US cities in our data.

The Knox County Rental Market

The Knox County, ME area has a population of about 40,860 and 22% 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 Knox County, ME have fallen by $23/month (1.5%) over the past year, from $1,526 to $1,503. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Knox County, ME without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $49,440. The local median household income of $71,903 exceeds that threshold by $22,463, making Knox County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Knox County, ME has an unemployment rate of 2.8%, 1.1 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 FY2027
Studio
$1,101
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$1,236
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$1,503
↓1.5% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,968
Average
4 Bedrooms
$1,975
Average
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Is Knox County, ME Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$60,120/year
Local median income: $71,903
To buy a median home
—/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $1,503/month and 20% down on a — home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in MElargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome Value
Portland$1,639$1,864$2,353$2,902—
York$1,655$1,816$2,376$2,831—
Cumberland County$1,545$1,561$1,941$2,425—
York County$1,352$1,500$1,792$2,464—
Penobscot County$1,042$1,144$1,496$2,039—
Bangor$1,305$1,380$1,722$2,203—

Rent or Buy in Knox County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Knox County data

$
Home Value
$350,000
2BR Rent
$1,503/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,863/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $2,577/movs rent: $1,503/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Living in Knox County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Knox County

Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood

💵Rent Affordability in Knox County

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in ME

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⚖️Compare Knox County

Side-by-side rent & cost of living with any city

📋ME Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections