Average Rent in Lewiston, ME↑ Rents rising 14.1% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 112,323
Market Overview
Lewiston, ME has rental prices ranging from $898/month to $1,845/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $994/month — 29% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $67,298/year, spending $994/month on a 1-bedroom represents 18% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Lewiston Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,268/month, Lewiston ranks #7 most expensive of the 19 cities tracked in Maine — pricier than 85% of all US cities in our data.
The Lewiston Rental Market
The Lewiston, ME area has a population of about 112,323 and 33% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Lewiston, ME have risen by $157/month (14.1%) over the past year, from $1,111 to $1,268. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Lewiston, ME without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $39,760. The local median household income of $67,298 exceeds that threshold by $27,538, making Lewiston relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in Lewiston, ME is $303,011, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 19.9. With a break-even horizon of approximately 20 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Lewiston, 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 Lewiston?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Lewiston data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $303,011 home at 7% rate
Living in Lewiston
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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⚖️Rent vs Buy in LewistonIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
💵Rent Affordability in LewistonSalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MESee how Lewiston ranks statewide
⚖️Compare LewistonSide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋ME Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections