Average Rent in Somerset County, ME↓ Rents falling 1.9% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 50,852
Market Overview
Somerset County, ME has rental prices ranging from $1,031/month to $1,731/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,038/month — 26% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $56,199/year, spending $1,038/month on a 1-bedroom represents 22% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Somerset County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,242/month, Somerset County ranks #16 most expensive of the 19 cities tracked in Maine — pricier than 78% of all US cities in our data.
The Somerset County Rental Market
The Somerset County, ME area has a population of about 50,852 and 23% 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 Somerset County, ME have fallen by $24/month (1.9%) over the past year, from $1,266 to $1,242. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Somerset County, ME without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $41,520. The local median household income of $56,199 exceeds that threshold by $14,679, making Somerset County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Somerset County, ME has an unemployment rate of 4.2%, 0.3 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Somerset 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 Somerset County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Somerset County data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in Somerset 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 Somerset CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MESee how Somerset County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Somerset CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋ME Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections