Cost of Living in Belfast, ME

With a cost of living index of 91, Belfast, ME is slightly more affordable than average. Living here is 9% cheaper than the national average and 4% above the Maine state average of 87. Belfast is a smaller community of 6,985 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Belfast's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $986 (25% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $307,700 (1% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Belfast is $61,322, which is 18% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 19% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Belfast. The area sees an average annual temperature of 45°F, with summers averaging 67°F and winters around 22°F. Annual rainfall totals 41.7 inches spread over roughly 134 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.