Safe Rate Local

Cost of Living in Washington County

Is it better to rent or buy in Washington County? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

← Back to Washington County Hub

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$58,296
$787/mo

Median in area: $787

$165,216

Median in area: $165,216

$33,043

If you Rent

🔑
$951 /mo
Base Rent$787
Est. Utilities$164
% of Income19.6%
Pre-tax Residual$3,907

If you Buy

🏠
$1,281 /mo
P&I (7.206%)$898
Taxes & Ins$219
Est. Utilities$164
% of Income26.4%
Pre-tax Residual$3,577

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Washington County stacks up against neighboring areas.

countyAroostook County, ME
$745/mo
countyPenobscot County, ME
$1,044/mo
countyHancock County, ME
$1,140/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Washington County?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Washington County. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $951, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,281 per month (a difference of $330).

How much do utilities cost in Washington County?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Washington County is approximately $164. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Washington County?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Washington County without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $38,040 per year.