Cost of Living in Lincoln, ME

With a cost of living index of 62, Lincoln, ME is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 38% cheaper than the national average and 25% below the Maine state average of 87. Lincoln is a small community of 2,576 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Lincoln's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $640 (51% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $120,200 (61% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.6x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Lincoln is $33,750, which is 55% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 23% 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 Lincoln. The area sees an average annual temperature of 42.8°F, with summers averaging 66°F and winters around 19°F. Annual rainfall totals 42.6 inches spread over roughly 142 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Bangor, 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.