Average Rent in Lincoln County, ME↑ Rents rising 5.2% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 35,840
Market Overview
Lincoln County, ME has rental prices ranging from $1,082/month to $1,649/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,103/month — 21% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $72,026/year, spending $1,103/month on a 1-bedroom represents 18% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Lincoln County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,244/month, Lincoln County ranks #8 most expensive of the 19 cities tracked in Maine — pricier than 84% of all US cities in our data.
The Lincoln County Rental Market
The Lincoln County, ME area has a population of about 35,840 and 16% 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 Lincoln County, ME have risen by $61/month (5.2%) over the past year, from $1,183 to $1,244. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Lincoln County, ME without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $44,120. The local median household income of $72,026 exceeds that threshold by $27,906, making Lincoln County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Lincoln 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.
Neighborhoods
Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Lincoln County's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are East Boothbay ($657,570 median home value). Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Lincoln 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 Lincoln County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Lincoln County data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in Lincoln County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
Moving Cost Estimator
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Lincoln CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MESee how Lincoln County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Lincoln CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋ME Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections