Cost of Living in Kennebunk, ME

With a cost of living index of 115, Kennebunk, ME is somewhat more expensive than average. Living here is 15% more expensive than the national average and 28% above the Maine state average of 87. Kennebunk is a smaller community of 6,008 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Kennebunk's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,411 (7% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $429,600 (41% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.6x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Kennebunk is $93,167, which is 24% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 18% 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 Kennebunk. The area sees an average annual temperature of 47.7°F, with summers averaging 69°F and winters around 27°F. Annual rainfall totals 41.2 inches spread over roughly 139 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.