| Index | Auburn | Maine | National |
| Cost of living | 101 | 100 | 100 |
| Groceries | 103 | 103 | 100 |
| Health care | 102 | 101 | 100 |
| Housing | 94 | 91 | 100 |
| Transportation | 104 | 103 | 100 |
| Utilities | 105 | 108 | 100 |
| Lifestyle & Entertainment | 101 | 103 | 100 |
| Household Items | 103 | 103 | 100 |
| Education & Childcare | 105 | 106 | 100 |

Getting a feel for the cost of living in Auburn is essential for anyone planning to relocate, as it empowers them to make informed financial decisions, secure a comfortable lifestyle and maintain financial stability in their new environment. The cost of living in Auburn is 101, which is 1% higher than the national average. Relocating individuals may need to adjust their savings and investment strategies based on the cost of living in the new location. It influences decisions about retirement planning, investments and financial goals.
The cost of living in Auburn aligns closely with the national average when compared to other cities across the nation. Everyday essentials such as groceries, household expenses, health care and utility bills are priced at a level consistent with the average in similar urban areas. Auburn residents can anticipate that their daily expenses won't be significantly higher than those in an average city, ensuring that the cost of living remains manageable.
Wondering if Auburn is affordable? It's a question that often comes up when you're thinking about a new city since affordability can really shape your decisions. The cost of living index (covered earlier), housing expenses and income levels all play a part in the affordability equation. In Auburn, for example, the median home price is 0.9% lower than what folks pay nationally, and monthly rent is 17.2% lower than the usual rates. Plus, income levels matter too, with Auburn boasting a median household income of $77,882, which is 4.2% lower than the national average.
Healthcare: The costs associated with healthcare and insurance premiums can exhibit notable disparities based on the city or state of residence. Access to healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket expenses for medical appointments, dental care charges, prescription medication costs and specialized medical care expenses all contribute to variations in the cost of living. In Auburn, healthcare costs are 1.7% higher than the national average.
Housing: High demand for housing in desirable locations can drive up property prices and rental rates. This can be a primary contributor to a higher cost of living. While low demand for housing, especially in undesirable locations, can have the reverse effect and drive prices down, resulting in a lower cost of living. The housing index in Auburn, is 5.8% lower than the national average.
Utilities: Much like any other costs, utility expenses can exhibit considerable variations, influenced by factors such as climate, available energy sources, geographic location and state regulations. The costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can vary significantly depending on the city or state in question. In Auburn, the utilities index stands at 5.3% higher than the national average.
The cost of living estimates displayed for Auburn are modeled using a U.S. average baseline of 100, helping provide a useful comparison of local living expenses. Housing calculations include U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are AI-assisted estimates based on regional cost patterns, climate, transportation, and everyday spending expectations. These values are intended for directional comparisons across cities.
| Cost of living index | |
| Groceries index | |
| Health care index | |
| Housing index | |
| Transportation index | |
| Utilities index | |
| Lifestyle index | |
| Household index | |
| Educare index |
| Median Income | Per Year | Per Month | Max Budget (28% DTI) | Max Budget (36% DTI) |
| Owners | $120,928 | $10,077 | $2,821 | $3,628 |
| Renters | $44,830 | $3,736 | $1,046 | $1,345 |
| State | General Sales Tax | With Max Surtax |
| Maine | 5.5% | 5.5% |
| State | Income Tax (Low) | Income Tax (High) |
| Maine | 5.8% | 7.15% |
| City | Population | Cost of Living Index | National Avg. |
| South Paris, ME | 1,898 | 93 | 6.8% |
| Oxford, ME | 1,063 | 94 | 5.6% |
| Mechanic Falls, ME | 2,187 | 97 | 3.4% |
| Lewiston, ME | 37,532 | 97 | 2.9% |
| Lisbon Falls, ME | 4,167 | 98 | 2.0% |
| Auburn, ME | 23,804 | 101 | 0.5% |
| City | Population | Cost of Living Index | National Avg. |
| Oakdale, CA | 23,805 | 133 | 32.9% |
| Farmington, MN | 23,819 | 113 | 12.6% |
| Oxford, OH | 23,787 | 99 | 1.4% |
| Leesburg, FL | 23,785 | 101 | 0.7% |
| Rock Springs, WY | 23,823 | 103 | 3.2% |
| Auburn, ME | 23,804 | 101 | 0.5% |