Camden, ME Utility & Living Guide

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Camden, ME Utility & Living Guide

Camden is a town in Knox County, Maine, United States. The population was 5,232 at the 2020 census. Located on Penobscot Bay at the mouth of the Megunticook River, Camden is one of the few places on the Atlantic seaboard where mountains meet the sea.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$300/mo
1BR Rent$1400/mo
Sales Tax5.5%
COL Index110 (+10% above national average)
Family Score8/10
Median Home$380,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Camden
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Central Maine Power
🔥 Gas

—

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$50/mo

Camden Water District
🗑️ Garbage

$30/mo

Pine State Disposal
📶 Internet

$70/mo

Combined Average Overhead$300/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1400/mo
2 Bedrooms$1800/mo
3 Bedrooms$2400/mo
Median Home Price$380,000
Property Tax Rate1.35%
Avg Childcare/mo$1200

The housing market in Camden is highly competitive, with a mix of historic homes, new constructions, and vacation rentals. The median home price has increased significantly in recent years due to the town’s popularity among tourists and retirees. Rentals are also in high demand, particularly during the summer months.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

110

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+10% above national average

Groceries

105

Transportation

95

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$1200

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax5.5%
Property Tax Rate1.35%
<p>State 5.5% + No County tax + No City tax</p>

Maine has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 5.2% to 7.95%. Residents may also be eligible for tax credits and deductions.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
8/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1200/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Blue
Business Momentum
High, with key industries in tourism, healthcare, and education
Top Local Concerns
Affordable housing, traffic and parking, environmental conservation
🚌 Transit for Families

Camden has a limited public transportation system, but the town is highly walkable and bikeable, with many stroller-friendly sidewalks and parks.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Camden Hills State Park
  • 🎯
    Camden Public Library
  • 🎯
    Midcoast Recreation Center

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods, such as Chestnut Street and Elm Street, offer a mix of historic homes, shops, and restaurants, making them ideal for families. The nearby village of Rockport also has a strong sense of community and excellent schools.

Household Budget Calculator

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📰 Live Local News

Camden has strict zoning laws and historic district regulations to preserve the town’s character and architecture.

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📊 Camden — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Camden fluctuate significantly by season, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning and higher heating oil costs in the winter. Residents can expect to pay around 20-30% more for utilities during the peak summer and winter months.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 04843 has a property tax millage rate of 18.5, with no local surtaxes. However, residents may be eligible for state and federal tax credits and deductions.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

8/10, with excellent sidewalk quality, abundant park access, and family-friendly infrastructure, but limited elevator access in public transit

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