Cost of Living in Portland, ME

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Portland? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $10,733 per year — combining federal taxes with Maine's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($2,130/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Portland metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $33,707, or roughly $2,809 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Portland metro has a cost of living index of 119.4 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 19% above average, Portland is a noticeably expensive metro — groceries, services, and everyday purchases cost more than in most of the country.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Portland represents approximately 37% of gross income. That exceeds the conventional 30% guideline, meaning housing takes a significant share of the budget at this income level.