Dexter, ME vs Houlton, ME

Houlton is moderately more affordable than Dexter, with a 6.7% lower cost of living index. Dexter scores 72 compared to 67 for Houlton, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Dexter can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Dexter is $883/month compared to $719/month in Houlton — a 23% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Houlton is more affordable at $121,700 median vs $153,200.

Median household income in Dexter is $51,667 compared to $52,227 in Houlton (-1.1%). Houlton offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Dexter spend roughly 20.5% of their income on rent, more than the 16.5% in Houlton.

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