Cost of Living in Portland, ME
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
139.5
100 = national avg
+39.5 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$61,395
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$145,116
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing198.3
Food108.2
Transportation88.7
Healthcare106.6
Utilities124.6
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,397
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,833
per month
The overall cost of living index in Portland is 139.5, which is 39.5% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 198.3. A single adult needs to earn approximately $61,395 per year to cover basic expenses.