Calais, ME Utility & Living Guide

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Tier 3 Location

Calais, ME Utility & Living Guide

Living in Calais, ME offers a unique blend of rural charm and natural beauty, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

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$180,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Calais
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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

Calais Water Department
🗑️ 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$1600/mo
Median Home Price$180,000
Property Tax Rate1.5%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Calais is relatively affordable, with a range of options from historic homes to new constructions. However, the market can be limited, and prices may vary depending on the location and condition of the property. Rentals are also available, but may be scarce in certain areas.

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 Rate1.5%
<p>State 5.5% + No County or City tax</p>

Maine has a state income tax with a top rate of 7.95%, but no local income taxes are imposed in Calais.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

60

Higher = safer
School Rating

7/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

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

Public transit in Calais is limited, but the city has made efforts to improve accessibility, with some sidewalks and parks being stroller-friendly.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    St. Croix Island International Historic Site
  • 🎯
    Calais Waterfront Walkway
  • 🎯
    and the Downeast Coastal Conservancy

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and neighborhoods near the water offer a mix of historic homes and new constructions, with easy access to amenities and outdoor activities. The Red Beach area is also popular for its scenic views and waterfront properties.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Calais based on your household profile.

Local Briefing & Neighborhood Pulse

Live Local News

Residents should be aware of zoning regulations, building codes, and environmental ordinances, which are enforced by the City of Calais.

Calais is experiencing a trend of growing interest in outdoor tourism, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. However, the local economy is also facing challenges related to the decline of traditional industries such as manufacturing and logging.

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📊 Calais — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Calais tend to be higher in the winter months due to heating needs, with average electricity bills increasing by 20-30% from December to February. In contrast, summer months see lower utility bills, with average costs decreasing by 10-20% from June to August.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 04619 has a property tax millage rate of 18.5, with no local surtaxes imposed.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10, with explanation: while Calais has made efforts to improve sidewalk quality and park access, some areas still lack adequate infrastructure, and elevator access in transit is limited.

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