RentData

Average Rent in York County, ME↑ Rents rising 4.4% YoY

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 214,731

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, Census, BLSMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

York County, ME has rental prices ranging from $1,352/month to $2,773/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,500/month — 7% above the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $82,904/year, spending $1,500/month on a 1-bedroom represents 22% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How York County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,792/month, York County ranks #4 most expensive of the 19 cities tracked in Maine — pricier than 95% of all US cities in our data.

The York County Rental Market

The York County, ME area has a population of about 214,731 and 24% 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 York County, ME have risen by $76/month (4.4%) over the past year, from $1,716 to $1,792. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in York County, ME without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $60,000. The local median household income of $82,904 exceeds that threshold by $22,904, making York County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

York County, ME has an unemployment rate of 2.6%, 1.3 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 York County's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are West Newfield ($402,490 median home value), South Eliot ($591,681 median home value), Kittery ($667,647 median home value). Rental prices typically follow home value patterns, with premium neighborhoods commanding higher rents than outer areas. 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 FY2027
Studio
$1,352
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$1,500
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$1,792
↑4.4% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$2,464
Average
4 Bedrooms
$2,773
Expensive
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Is York County, 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
$71,680/year
Local median income: $82,904
To buy a median home
—/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $1,792/month and 20% down on a — 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—
Penobscot County$1,042$1,144$1,496$2,039—
Bangor$1,305$1,380$1,722$2,203—
Kennebec County$1,043$1,050$1,374$1,767—

Rent or Buy in York County?

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

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real York County data

$
Home Value
$350,000
2BR Rent
$1,792/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,863/mo
🏠 Buy

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

Total monthly buy cost: $2,577/movs rent: $1,792/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Living in York County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in York County

Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood

💵Rent Affordability in York County

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in ME

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⚖️Compare York County

Side-by-side rent & cost of living with any city

📋ME Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections