Fryeburg, ME vs Mapleton, ME

The cost of living difference between Fryeburg, ME and Mapleton, ME is dramatic. Mapleton is 42.9% cheaper than Fryeburg, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Fryeburg has a cost index of 84 while Mapleton sits at 59, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Fryeburg is $869/month compared to $353/month in Mapleton — a 146% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Mapleton is more affordable at $152,500 median vs $268,100.

Median household income in Fryeburg is $61,944 compared to $67,900 in Mapleton (-8.8%). Mapleton offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Fryeburg spend roughly 16.8% of their income on rent, more than the 6.2% in Mapleton.

Climate-wise, Fryeburg is notably warmer with an average of 44.7°F compared to 40.7°F in Mapleton. Fryeburg receives more rainfall at 46.9" per year compared to 40.7" in Mapleton.