Average Rent in York County, ME↑ Rents rising 4.4% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 214,731
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 FY2027Is 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)
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 | — |
| 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
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in York 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 York CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MESee how York County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare York CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋ME Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections