Maine demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
1,387,817
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,733/yr
4.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
751,876
0.7% year-over-year change

Maine population

How many people live in Maine

Maine is home to 1,387,817 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Maine locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
1,387,817
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
683,883
Female
50.7%
703,934
Value Percent YoY change
Male 683,883 49.3% 0.8%
Female 703,934 50.7% 0.7%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Maine is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.7% are children under 15, then 11.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.2% of the population, while another 27.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.7%
15 to 24
11.4%
25 to 44
24.2%
45 to 64
27.4%
Over 65
22.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 203,710 14.7% -0.8%
15 to 24 157,857 11.4% 1.5%
25 to 44 336,168 24.2% 1.4%
45 to 64 379,662 27.4% -1.1%
Over 65 310,420 22.4% 3.1%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Maine, 94.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.5% of locals are Caucasian, 1.8% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.2%
Non-citizens
1.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,315,859 94.8% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 45,024 3.2% -0.3%
Non-citizens 26,934 1.9% 10.8%
Racial breakdown
White
90.5%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.3%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 1,255,888 90.5%
Black or African American 25,427 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,831 0.4%
Asian 16,006 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 377 0%
Two or more races 73,727 5.3%
Other 10,561 0.8%

Households in Maine

A peek inside Maine households

Maine has 597,159 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.7% are families, while the remaining 39.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
597,159
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
234,621
Family households
362,538
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 234,621 39.3% 1.3%
Family households 362,538 60.7% 1.4%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Maine

The housing landscape of Maine

Maine's housing consists of 751,876 units, with 70% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 8.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
751,876
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 526,150 70%
1 unit, attached 19,219 2.6%
2 units 35,214 4.7%
3 or 4 units 41,032 5.5%
5 to 9 units 28,024 3.7%
10 to 19 units 13,560 1.8%
20 to 49 units 15,090 2%
50 or more units 11,791 1.6%
Mobile home 61,334 8.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 462 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
10,472
74.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Maine

In Maine, the median construction year is 1977. About 22.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 171,959 22.9% -0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 32,808 4.4% -4.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 50,818 6.8% -2.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 54,287 7.2% 1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 99,203 13.2% -1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 105,155 14% 0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 80,598 10.7% -2.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 92,983 12.4% 3.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 53,593 7.1% 7.5%
Built in 2020 or later 10,472 1.4% 74.7%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Maine occupancy rates

Out of the 597,159 occupied housing units in Maine, 74.3% are owner-occupied, while 25.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 20.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
597,159
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
153,586
Owner occupied
443,573
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 153,586 25.7% 0.3%
Owner occupied 443,573 74.3% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
20.6%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Maine housing costs

Housing costs in Maine come to a median of $1,172 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,139.

Median housing costs per month
$1,172/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Maine
$1,139/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Maine

Maine education at a glance

About 34.8% of the population in Maine went to high school, while 20% pursued college studies. Another 9.8% earned an associate degree and 21.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 18,338 1.6% -3.5%
High school diploma 395,450 34.8% -0.5%
College diploma 227,207 20% 0.4%
Associate degree 111,114 9.8% 0.8%
Bachelor's degree 243,922 21.4% 3.1%
Graduate degree 141,246 12.4% 3.7%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Maine

How much people earn in Maine

The average annual household income in Maine was $100,102 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,733, reflecting a +4.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Maine
$100,102/year
3.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Maine
$74,733/year
4.1% year-over-year change

Maine income by age

In Maine, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $90,715. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $88,943 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,403, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,559 in earnings. Overall, 89.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,403 2.6%
25 - 44 $90,715 5.5%
45 - 64 $88,943 4.1%
Over 65 $54,559 3.2%
Above poverty level
1,193,030
Below poverty level
143,095
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,193,030 89.3% 0.8%
Below poverty level 143,095 10.7% 0.5%

Employment in Maine

Workforce and job types in Maine

The job market in Maine is powered by 692,551 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.2% run their own businesses, 58.9% are employed by private companies, and 14.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
692,551
0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
538,923
Blue collar
153,628
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 538,923 77.8% 0.8%
Blue collar 153,628 22.2% 0.0%
Employer type
Self employees
13.2%
Private companies
58.9%
Governmental workers
14.1%
Not for profit companies
13.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 91,113 13.2% 0.9%
Private companies 407,931 58.9% 0.3%
Governmental workers 97,514 14.1% 0.9%
Not for profit companies 95,993 13.9% 1.2%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-3.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Maine stands at 3.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Maine

How people get around in Maine

In Maine, the average commute time is 25 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 78.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
25 min
0.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 534,859 78.7% -1.5%
Taxicab 1,227 0.2% 60.8%
Bus or trolleybus 2,275 0.3% -9.7%
Subway or elevated 234 0% N/A
Railroad 249 0% 12.7%
Ferryboat 385 0.1% 13.9%
Motorcycle 540 0.1% -0.4%
Bicycle 2,099 0.3% 7.6%
Walk 23,442 3.4% -0.6%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about Maine demographics 

What is the total population of Maine?

Maine has a total population of 1,387,817 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Maine?

The gender ratio in Maine is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (683,883 residents)
  • 50.7% females (703,934 residents)

What is the median age in Maine?

The median age in Maine is 44.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Maine?

The age distribution in Maine is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.7% (203,710 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.4% (157,857 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.2% (336,168 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.4% (379,662 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.4% (310,420 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Maine?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Maine is as follows:
  • White: 90.5% (1,255,888 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (25,427 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (5,831 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (16,006 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (377 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.3% (73,727 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (10,561 residents)

What percentage of the population in Maine are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.8% of the population in Maine.

How many housing units are there in Maine?

There are 751,876 housing units in Maine, reflecting a +0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Maine and what is the average household size?

Maine has a total of 597,159 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Maine?

Maine has a median household income of $74,733, representing a +4.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Maine?

The employment rate is 96.2% in Maine, with a workforce of 692,551 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.8% (538,923 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.2% (153,628 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.2% (91,113 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.9% (407,931 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.1% (97,514 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.9% (95,993 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025