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South Paris, ME vs Topsham, ME

68
South Paris
Maine
VS
-32.5%
101
Topsham
Maine

The cost of living difference between South Paris, ME and Topsham, ME is dramatic. South Paris is 32.5% cheaper than Topsham, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. South Paris has a cost index of 68 while Topsham sits at 101, 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 South Paris is $585/month compared to $1,211/month in Topsham — a 52% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: South Paris is more affordable at $186,300 median vs $341,800.

Median household income in South Paris is $56,823 compared to $80,545 in Topsham (-29.5%). The higher salaries in Topsham partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of South Paris spend roughly 12.4% of their income on rent, less than the 18% in Topsham.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (44.7°F vs 45.7°F). Topsham receives more rainfall at 50" per year compared to 46.9" in South Paris.

Income & Cost

Cost of Living Index
South Paris
68
32% cheaper
Topsham
101
Median Household Income
South Paris
$56,823
Topsham
$80,545
29% higher

Housing

Median Rent
South Paris
$585
52% cheaper
Topsham
$1,211
Median Home Value
South Paris
$186,300
45% cheaper
Topsham
$341,800
Population
South Paris
2,570
Topsham
6,962

Salary Equivalency Calculator

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Everyday Prices

BLS Average Prices by metro area

Gasoline (regular)
South Paris
Topsham $3.01
US $3.07
🥚
Eggs (grade A, large)
South Paris
Topsham $2.46
US $2.50
🥛
Milk (whole)
South Paris
Topsham $3.96
US $4.03
🍞
Bread (white)
South Paris
Topsham $1.82
US $1.85
🍗
Chicken breast
South Paris
Topsham $4.07
US $4.14
Electricity
South Paris
Topsham $0.28
US $0.19

Climate

NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)

Avg Temp
South Paris 44.7°F
Topsham 45.7°F
Summer High
South Paris 82°F
Topsham 79°F
Winter Low
South Paris 7°F
Topsham 12°F
Rainfall
South Paris 46.9"
Topsham 50"
Rainy Days
South Paris 144d
Topsham 128d