Average Rent in Knox County, ME↑ Rents rising 5.2% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 40,860
Market Overview
Knox County, ME has rental prices ranging from $808/month to $1,798/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $997/month — 29% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $71,903/year, spending $997/month on a 1-bedroom represents 17% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Knox County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,178/month, Knox County ranks #11 most expensive of the 19 cities tracked in Maine — pricier than 81% 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 risen by $58/month (5.2%) over the past year, from $1,120 to $1,178. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
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 $39,880. The local median household income of $71,903 exceeds that threshold by $32,023, 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 FY2025Is 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)
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 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
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
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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💵Rent Affordability in Knox CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MESee how Knox County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Knox CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋ME Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections