Augusta, ME vs Caribou, ME
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Caribou is 17.2% cheaper than Augusta. With a cost index of 66 vs 78, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Caribou to Augusta should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Augusta is $887/month compared to $696/month in Caribou — a 27% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Caribou is more affordable at $120,300 median vs $188,900.
Median household income in Augusta is $48,756 compared to $54,271 in Caribou (-10.2%). Caribou offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Augusta spend roughly 21.8% of their income on rent, more than the 15.4% in Caribou.
Climate-wise, Augusta is notably warmer with an average of 46.1°F compared to 40.7°F in Caribou. Augusta receives more rainfall at 41.8" per year compared to 40.7" in Caribou.
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)