Clayton Lake, ME Utility & Living Guide

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Clayton Lake, ME Utility & Living Guide

Utilities, housing, taxes, cost of living, and local insights — everything residents and families need.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$260/mo
1BR Rent$900/mo
Sales Tax5.5%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$280,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Clayton Lake
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$150/mo

Emera Maine
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$30/mo

Clayton Lake Water District
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Casella Waste Systems
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$260/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$900/mo
2 Bedrooms$1200/mo
3 Bedrooms$1800/mo
Median Home Price$280,000
Property Tax Rate1.1%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Clayton Lake is relatively affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes available. Rentals are also available, but may be limited. The area is popular for vacation homes and seasonal rentals.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax5.5%
Property Tax Rate1.1%
<p>State 5.5% + no county or city tax</p>

Maine has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 5.2% to 7.95%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

7.2/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+2% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple, with a mix of conservative and liberal views
Business Momentum
Moderate, with key industries including tourism, healthcare, and small manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Economic development, environmental protection, affordable housing
🚌 Transit for Families

Clayton Lake has limited public transportation, but the area is relatively walkable and bikeable, with some sidewalks and bike paths available

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Allagash National Wilderness Waterway
  • 🎯
    Clayton Lake State Park
  • 🎯
    Houlton Fairgrounds

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around Clayton Lake is popular for families, with plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities and a strong sense of community. The town of Houlton is also nearby, with its own amenities and services. Other neighborhoods, such as the area around Nickerson Lake, offer a more rural and secluded lifestyle.

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📊 Clayton Lake — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Clayton Lake fluctuate significantly with the seasons, with higher electricity costs in the winter due to heating and higher water costs in the summer due to irrigation and outdoor activities. Residents can expect to pay around 20-30% more for utilities during the peak winter months.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 04737 has a property tax millage rate of 18.5, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6, with explanation: Clayton Lake has some sidewalks and bike paths, but they can be uneven and limited in some areas. Park access is good, with several parks and playgrounds available, but elevator access in transit is limited due to the rural nature of the area.

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