Average Rent in York, ME↑ Rents rising 16.1% YoY🔺 2nd priciest in ME
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 557,764
Market Overview
York, ME has rental prices ranging from $1,352/month to $3,310/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,528/month — 9% above the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $88,602/year, spending $1,528/month on a 1-bedroom represents 21% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How York Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,971/month, York ranks #2 most expensive of the 19 cities tracked in Maine — pricier than 98% of all US cities in our data.
The York Rental Market
The York, ME area has a population of about 557,764 and 27% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in York, ME have risen by $274/month (16.1%) over the past year, from $1,697 to $1,971. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in York, ME without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $61,120. The local median household income of $88,602 exceeds that threshold by $27,482, making York relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Rent vs. Buy
The median home value in York, ME is $772,989, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 32.7. With a break-even horizon of approximately 33 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.
Neighborhoods
Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across York's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Cape Neddick ($743,121 median home value), York Harbor ($842,149 median home value). Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is York, ME Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in MElargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portland | $1,379 | $1,563 | $2,011 | $2,464 | — |
| Cumberland County | $1,197 | $1,330 | $1,745 | $2,191 | — |
| York County | $1,162 | $1,312 | $1,616 | $2,134 | — |
| Penobscot County | $839 | $880 | $1,155 | $1,455 | — |
| Bangor | $1,034 | $1,114 | $1,424 | $1,825 | — |
| Kennebec County | $895 | $901 | $1,160 | $1,454 | — |
Rent or Buy in York?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real York data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly payment for $772,989 home at 7% rate
Living in York
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
Moving Cost Estimator
Estimate your moving costs based on FMCSA public mover data
Select your origin state to see the estimate
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore More
Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
⚖️Rent vs Buy in YorkIs it cheaper to rent or buy here?
💵Rent Affordability in YorkSalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MESee how York ranks statewide
⚖️Compare YorkSide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋ME Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections