Cost of living in Augusta
Augusta, the capital city of Maine, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Understanding the cost of living in Augusta is crucial for anyone considering relocating or planning a visit.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in various categories, including housing, dining, transportation, and more, to help you make informed financial decisions.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $20 on average, with a range between $10 and $50.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $75, with prices ranging from $60 to $200.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $7.5, with a range between $7 and $15.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $5 to $12, imported beer $3 to $13, cappuccino $4 to $8, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $5.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.92 and $1.85 per liter, averaging $1.12.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $2.63 and $7, with an average price of $3.52.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.99 to $6, averaging $3.75.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.7 to $8.82 per kg, while oranges range from $2.2 to $13.23 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.76 and $7.72 per kg, and lettuce costs $1.69 to $4.5 per head.
Transportation
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.82 and $1.06 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $2.7, with a cost of $1.24 to $3.73 per km and $28 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $950 to $1200, averaging $1050.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $800 to $1100, averaging $950.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1070 to $2200, averaging $1590.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1400 to $1600, averaging $1466.67.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre ranges from $2012.85 to $2207, averaging $2109.93.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter ranges from $1614.59 to $2207, averaging $1910.79.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $122.78 and $303.57, averaging $200.87.
- Internet - Internet services range from $45 to $125, with an average cost of $72.31.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Augusta offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas. Housing costs are moderate, with a variety of options both in and outside the city centre.
Dining out can be economical, especially at casual restaurants, while grocery prices remain competitive. Transportation costs are manageable, with affordable fuel prices and taxi fares.
Utilities and internet services are reasonably priced, contributing to the overall affordability of living in Augusta.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Augusta, ME, presents a balanced cost of living that appeals to both individuals and families. The city provides a mix of affordable housing, reasonable dining options, and manageable transportation expenses.
Whether you're planning to move or just visiting, understanding these costs can help you budget effectively and enjoy all that Augusta has to offer.