Cost of Living in Orono, ME

With a cost of living index of 85, Orono, ME is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 15% cheaper than the national average and in line with the Maine state average. Orono is a smaller community of 10,699 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Orono's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,150 (13% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $219,200 (28% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.9x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Orono is $56,890, which is 24% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 24% 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 Orono. The area sees an average annual temperature of 43.2°F, with summers averaging 65°F and winters around 20°F. Annual rainfall totals 44.4 inches spread over roughly 147 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.