RentData

Average Rent in Lewiston, ME↑ Rents rising 5.7% YoY

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 112,323

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, CensusMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Lewiston, ME has rental prices ranging from $1,210/month to $2,459/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,282/month — 8% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $67,298/year, spending $1,282/month on a 1-bedroom represents 23% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Lewiston Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,677/month, Lewiston ranks #6 most expensive of the 19 cities tracked in Maine — pricier than 93% 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 $91/month (5.7%) over the past year, from $1,586 to $1,677. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

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 $51,280. The local median household income of $67,298 exceeds that threshold by $16,018, making Lewiston relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Lewiston, ME is $295,775, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 14.7. The break-even point between renting and buying is roughly 15 years — renting offers more flexibility for shorter stays, while buying makes more sense for long-term residents.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2027
Studio
$1,210
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$1,282
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$1,677
↑5.7% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$2,119
Average
4 Bedrooms
$2,459
Expensive
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Median Home Value
$295,775
Source: Zillow ZHVI
Est. monthly payment
$1,574/mo
20% down · 30yr · 7%

Is Lewiston, 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
$67,080/year
Local median income: $67,298
To buy a median home
$62,970/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $1,677/month and 20% down on a $295,775 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 Lewiston?

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

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Lewiston data

$
Home Value
$295,775
2BR Rent
$1,677/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,574/mo
🏠 Buy

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

Total monthly buy cost: $2,178/movs rent: $1,677/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Mortgage Calculator

Estimate monthly payment for $295,775 home at 7% rate

20% — $59,155
3%50%
Estimated Monthly Payment
$1,574
per month · 30 years · 7% APR
Loan Amount
$236,620
Total Paid
$566,726
Total Interest
$330,106
Estimated only. Excludes taxes, insurance, HOA. Rate from FRED.

Living in Lewiston

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Lewiston

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⚖️Rent vs Buy in Lewiston

Is it cheaper to rent or buy here?

💵Rent Affordability in Lewiston

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in ME

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📋ME Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections