Ellsworth, ME vs Houlton, ME

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Houlton is 22% cheaper than Ellsworth. With a cost index of 67 vs 82, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Houlton to Ellsworth should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Ellsworth is $955/month compared to $719/month in Houlton — a 33% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Houlton is more affordable at $121,700 median vs $214,500.

Median household income in Ellsworth is $70,990 compared to $52,227 in Houlton (+35.9%). 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 Ellsworth spend roughly 16.1% of their income on rent, less than the 16.5% in Houlton.

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