Machias, ME vs South Berwick, ME

The cost of living difference between Machias, ME and South Berwick, ME is dramatic. Machias is 37.8% cheaper than South Berwick, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Machias has a cost index of 66 while South Berwick sits at 107, 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 Machias is $700/month compared to $1,390/month in South Berwick — a 50% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Machias is more affordable at $117,800 median vs $340,800.

Median household income in Machias is $28,047 compared to $77,493 in South Berwick (-63.8%). While South Berwick is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Machias spend roughly 29.9% of their income on rent, more than the 21.5% in South Berwick.

Climate-wise, South Berwick is notably warmer with an average of 47.7°F compared to 43.2°F in Machias. Machias receives more rainfall at 44.4" per year compared to 41.2" in South Berwick.