Cost of Living in Dunstan, ME

With a cost of living index of 128, Dunstan, ME is a notably expensive place to live. Living here is 28% more expensive than the national average and 42% above the Maine state average of 87. Dunstan is a small community of 1,916 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Dunstan's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,722 (31% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $480,600 (58% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.9x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Dunstan is $97,632, which is 30% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 21% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. While incomes are above average, they more than offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Dunstan. The area sees an average annual temperature of 47.5°F, with summers averaging 68°F and winters around 27°F. Annual rainfall totals 48.1 inches spread over roughly 131 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Portland-South Portland, ME (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 5 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

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.