Maine Salaries 2025
New England charm with emerging remote work economy
Median Household Income
Maine Salary Overview 2025
Maine offers a distinctive lifestyle proposition: rugged coastal beauty, tight-knit communities, and quality of life that increasingly attracts remote workers seeking escape from urban congestion. The state's median household income of $62,000 sits below the national average, but Maine's reasonable cost of living (98 index) and exceptional natural environment create compelling value for those who prioritize lifestyle over maximum earnings.
The economy centers on healthcare (Maine's largest industry), tourism, manufacturing, and a growing technology sector concentrated in Portland. The remote work revolution has transformed Maine's appeal—the state actively recruits remote workers and offers incentives for relocation. Portland has emerged as an unexpected foodie and craft beverage destination, attracting young professionals.
Maine faces demographic challenges—an aging population and rural decline—but coastal areas and Portland are experiencing genuine growth. The state appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, those seeking New England charm, and remote workers who can maintain higher salaries while enjoying Maine's quality of life. For comprehensive salary data, see salary trends 2025.
Maine Salary Snapshot
| Metric | Maine | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $62,000 | $74,580 |
| Mean Household Income | $79,500 | $97,300 |
| Per Capita Income | $34,500 | $37,638 |
| Minimum Wage (2025) | $14.15/hr | $7.25/hr (federal) |
| Cost of Living Index | 98 | 100 |
| Top Income Tax Rate | 7.15% | Varies |
Salaries by Maine Region
Greater Portland – Economic Hub
Median Household Income: $72,000
Portland and surrounding communities drive Maine's economy with healthcare, technology, finance, and hospitality. The city has emerged as a craft food and beverage destination—one of the nation's highest restaurant-per-capita rates. IDEXX Laboratories (veterinary diagnostics), WEX (fleet payments), and numerous tech startups create professional opportunities. Software engineers earn $80,000-$130,000, healthcare professionals competitive with regional rates.
Portland's Old Port district offers urban walkability rare in Maine. Housing has become expensive ($480,000 median) relative to local wages but remains below Boston. Young professionals increasingly choose Portland for lifestyle.
Southern Maine Coast (Kennebunk, York, Kittery)
Median Household Income: $75,000
Southern coastal communities combine tourism, Boston commuter population (Portsmouth, NH is nearby), and retirees. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (in Kittery) employs 7,000+ in defense work. Housing is expensive ($450,000-$700,000) but attractive for those seeking coastal living with Boston access. Limited local job opportunities beyond healthcare and hospitality.
Lewiston-Auburn – Manufacturing Heritage
Median Household Income: $48,000
Maine's second-largest metro has manufacturing heritage with healthcare (Central Maine Medical Center) now dominant. Very affordable ($200,000 median home) with improving downtown. Limited professional opportunities; many commute to Portland.
Bangor Region
Median Household Income: $52,000
Bangor serves as the commercial center for northern Maine with healthcare (Northern Light Health), retail, and distribution. University of Maine in Orono adds education employment. Affordable ($220,000 median) with access to outdoor recreation. Limited high-wage opportunities.
Midcoast (Brunswick, Bath, Rockland)
Median Household Income: $58,000
Bath Iron Works (General Dynamics) builds Navy destroyers, employing 6,500+ with strong wages. Bowdoin College adds education in Brunswick. Midcoast attracts artists, remote workers, and retirees. Housing costs vary; waterfront is expensive.
| Region | Median Income | Median Home | Key Industries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greater Portland | $72,000 | $480,000 | Healthcare, Tech, Hospitality |
| Southern Coast | $75,000 | $550,000 | Defense, Tourism, Commuters |
| Lewiston-Auburn | $48,000 | $200,000 | Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Bangor | $52,000 | $220,000 | Healthcare, Retail, Education |
| Midcoast | $58,000 | $350,000 | Shipbuilding, Education, Tourism |
Top Paying Industries in Maine
Healthcare
Healthcare is Maine's largest employer, driven by an aging population. MaineHealth (including Maine Medical Center), Northern Light Health, and regional systems employ tens of thousands. Physicians $260,000-$420,000+, nurses $60,000-$85,000, specialists command premiums in underserved areas. Rural Maine offers significant loan forgiveness and signing bonuses.
Shipbuilding & Defense (Bath Iron Works)
Bath Iron Works builds Arleigh Burke-class destroyers for the U.S. Navy—one of only two shipyards with this capability. Engineers $80,000-$135,000, skilled trades $55,000-$90,000, production workers $45,000-$70,000. Navy contracts extend decades, providing job security. Security clearances required for many positions.
Technology
Portland's tech scene has grown steadily. IDEXX Laboratories (veterinary diagnostics, $3B+ company) employs 2,000+ locally. WEX (fleet payments) maintains headquarters. Smaller startups and remote worker influx add momentum. Software engineers $75,000-$130,000, data scientists $80,000-$120,000.
Tourism & Hospitality
Maine's tourism industry generates $6B+ annually. Acadia National Park, coastal villages, and ski resorts drive seasonal employment. Management roles $50,000-$100,000, seasonal workers $30,000-$45,000. Portland's food scene has created year-round hospitality employment at higher levels.
Fishing & Lobster
Maine's iconic lobster industry employs thousands. Successful lobstermen can earn $50,000-$150,000+ depending on catch and prices, though income varies dramatically. Processing, distribution, and related services add employment. Climate change and sustainability concerns create uncertainty.
| Industry | Entry Level | Mid-Career | Senior Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare (Physicians) | $260,000 | $330,000 | $420,000+ |
| Shipbuilding Engineering | $70,000 | $100,000 | $135,000+ |
| Software Engineering | $65,000 | $95,000 | $130,000+ |
| Nursing (RN) | $55,000 | $70,000 | $85,000+ |
| Skilled Trades (BIW) | $50,000 | $70,000 | $90,000+ |
Maine Tax Analysis
State Income Tax Brackets (2025)
| Taxable Income (Single) | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 – $24,500 | 5.8% |
| $24,501 – $58,050 | 6.75% |
| $58,051+ | 7.15% |
Maine's taxes are moderate for New England—lower than Massachusetts and Vermont, comparable to Connecticut.
Tax Comparison
| Salary | ME Tax | MA Tax (5%) | NH Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| $75,000 | ~$4,700 | $3,750 | $0 |
| $100,000 | ~$6,500 | $5,000 | $0 |
| $150,000 | ~$10,100 | $7,500 | $0 |
Property Tax: Maine property taxes average 1.24%—moderate for New England.
Sales Tax: 5.5% statewide.
Maine Cost of Living Analysis
| Expense | Maine | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Housing Index | 100 | 100 |
| Median Home Price | $350,000 | $420,000 |
| Median Rent (2BR) | $1,300 | $1,400 |
| Groceries Index | 100 | 100 |
| Utilities Index | 115 | 100 |
| Healthcare Index | 105 | 100 |
Housing by Region
| Area | Median Home | Rent (2BR) |
|---|---|---|
| Portland | $480,000 | $1,800 |
| South Portland | $420,000 | $1,650 |
| Southern Coast | $550,000 | $1,900 |
| Brunswick | $380,000 | $1,500 |
| Bangor | $220,000 | $1,100 |
| Lewiston | $200,000 | $1,000 |
Highest Paying Jobs in Maine 2025
| Occupation | Average Salary | Top 10% Earn |
|---|---|---|
| Physicians/Surgeons | $280,000 | $420,000+ |
| Dentists | $170,000 | $260,000+ |
| IT Directors | $125,000 | $165,000+ |
| Pharmacists | $120,000 | $145,000+ |
| Engineering Managers (BIW) | $120,000 | $155,000+ |
| Software Engineers | $95,000 | $130,000+ |
| Financial Managers | $105,000 | $145,000+ |
| Nurse Practitioners | $110,000 | $135,000+ |
Remote Work in Maine
Maine has positioned itself as a remote work destination:
Live + Work in Maine Program
Maine offers student loan repayment benefits for workers who relocate. The program can provide $12,000+ in tax credits for loan payments over four years. Additional programs target specific industries and skills.
Why Remote Workers Choose Maine
• Natural beauty: 3,500 miles of coastline, Acadia National Park, mountains
• Outdoor recreation: Sailing, hiking, skiing, fishing
• Portland lifestyle: Restaurants, craft beverages, arts scene
• Community: Small-town feel, engaged neighbors
• Escape: Lower density, less traffic, genuine nature access
Considerations
• Long, cold winters (plan for seasonal adjustment)
• Limited direct flights (Boston is often the hub)
• Rural areas have connectivity challenges
• Healthcare access limited outside Portland
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maine affordable?
Mixed. Portland has become expensive (housing doubled in a decade), but inland and northern Maine remain very affordable. Overall cost of living (98 index) is reasonable, but local wages are lower than national average. Remote workers with external salaries find excellent value.
Can I work remotely from Maine?
Yes, and Maine welcomes you. Broadband has improved significantly, though rural areas still have gaps. Portland and southern Maine have excellent connectivity. The state offers relocation incentives. Be aware of potential tax implications if your employer is in another state.
How are the winters?
Cold and long. Portland averages 60+ inches of snow; inland areas get more. January temps often below 20°F. However, Mainers embrace winter—skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, cozy indoor culture. Those who thrive in Maine accept winter as part of the package.
Is Portland worth the cost?
For the right person, yes. Portland offers walkability, exceptional food scene, craft beverages, arts, and community rare for a city of 68,000. It's become expensive relative to Maine wages but remains affordable compared to Boston. Young professionals and foodies particularly appreciate it.
What about jobs outside Portland?
Limited professional opportunities. Bath Iron Works provides good jobs in Midcoast. Healthcare exists everywhere. Otherwise, remote work, entrepreneurship, or accepting lower wages are the options. Many Mainers prioritize lifestyle over career advancement.