Cost of living in South Portland
South Portland, located in the state of Maine, is a vibrant city known for its scenic beauty and community-oriented lifestyle. Understanding the cost of living in South Portland is crucial for both current residents and those considering a move to the area.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of various expenses, 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 $15 and $31.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $70, with prices ranging from $55 to $70.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $12, with a range between $9.79 and $14.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $4 to $8, imported beer is consistently priced at $6, cappuccino ranges from $3 to $5, and Coke/Pepsi from $1.75 to $3.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.53 and $1.19 per liter, averaging $0.96.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.64 and $6.38, with an average price of $3.75.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $3 to $5.99, averaging $4.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.2 to $12.13 per kg, while oranges range from $4.08 to $4.45 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.65 and $4.41 per kg, and lettuce costs $1 to $2.69 per head.
Transportation
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.79 and $1.02 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $3, with a cost of $2.04 per km.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1800 to $2100, averaging $1950.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1500 to $1600, averaging $1550.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $3200 to $3500, averaging $3350.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $2500 to $2700, averaging $2600.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre averages $9213.91.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter averages $4305.56.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $100 and $340, averaging $225.
- Internet - Internet services range from $50 to $80, with an average cost of $64.6.
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"
South Portland offers a moderate cost of living with competitive housing and utility prices compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Dining out can be relatively affordable, especially at casual restaurants, while grocery prices vary widely depending on the product.
Transportation costs are manageable, with reasonable fuel prices and taxi fares.
Conclusion
In conclusion, South Portland presents a balanced cost of living that accommodates a variety of lifestyles. Whether you're renting or buying, the housing market offers options for different budgets.
With its scenic surroundings and community feel, South Portland is an attractive option for those seeking a blend of affordability and quality of life.