Orono, ME

Below Avg · 77

Maine · Population 10,699 · Updated March 2026

$1,150
Median Rent / Month
$56,890
Median Income
$219,200
Median Home Value
$1,157
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Orono

24.3%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Maine

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

7.15%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
5.5%
Sales Tax
1.3%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$13,800
Annual Rent
$4,068
State Income Tax
$2,850
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Orono is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 77 (where 100 equals the national median), Orono residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,150/month while earning a median household income of $56,890/year.

The median home value in Orono, ME is $219,200, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,157 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 24.3% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Maine has a moderate income tax rate of 7.15%. Combined with a 5.5% sales tax rate and 1.3% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Orono.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Orono

What is the cost of living in Orono, ME?
The cost of living index in Orono, ME is 77 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,150, median household income is $56,890/year, and the median home value is $219,200.
Is Orono, ME affordable?
Yes, Orono is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 77. The rent-to-income ratio is 24.3%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Orono, ME?
The median gross rent in Orono, ME is $1,150 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $13,800.
What is the median household income in Orono?
The median household income in Orono, ME is $56,890 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Maine?
Maine has a top income tax rate of 7.15%, a sales tax of 5.5%, and an effective property tax rate of 1.3%.