Average Rent in Waldo County, ME↓ Rents falling 4.9% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 40,006
Market Overview
Waldo County, ME has rental prices ranging from $1,132/month to $1,981/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,148/month — 18% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $68,441/year, spending $1,148/month on a 1-bedroom represents 20% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Waldo County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,367/month, Waldo County ranks #12 most expensive of the 19 cities tracked in Maine — pricier than 85% of all US cities in our data.
The Waldo County Rental Market
The Waldo County, ME area has a population of about 40,006 and 19% 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 Waldo County, ME have fallen by $71/month (4.9%) over the past year, from $1,438 to $1,367. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Waldo County, ME without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $45,920. The local median household income of $68,441 exceeds that threshold by $22,521, making Waldo County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Waldo County, ME has an unemployment rate of 3.2%, 0.7 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 FY2027Is Waldo 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 Waldo County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Waldo County data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in Waldo County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in Waldo CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MESee how Waldo County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Waldo CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋ME Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections