Houlton, ME vs Orono, ME

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Houlton is 21.1% cheaper than Orono. With a cost index of 67 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Houlton to Orono should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Houlton is $719/month compared to $1,150/month in Orono — a 38% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Houlton is more affordable at $121,700 median vs $219,200.

Median household income in Houlton is $52,227 compared to $56,890 in Orono (-8.2%). Orono does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Houlton spend roughly 16.5% of their income on rent, less than the 24.3% in Orono.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (40.7°F vs 43.2°F). Orono receives more rainfall at 44.4" per year compared to 39.3" in Houlton.