Calais, ME vs Ellsworth, ME

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Calais is 15.5% cheaper than Ellsworth. With a cost index of 69 vs 82, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Calais to Ellsworth should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Calais is $815/month compared to $955/month in Ellsworth — a 15% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Calais is more affordable at $111,800 median vs $214,500.

Median household income in Calais is $48,654 compared to $70,990 in Ellsworth (-31.5%). While Ellsworth is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Calais spend roughly 20.1% of their income on rent, more than the 16.1% in Ellsworth.

Climate-wise, Ellsworth is notably warmer with an average of 45°F compared to 40.7°F in Calais. Ellsworth receives more rainfall at 41.7" per year compared to 39.3" in Calais.