Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Birch Island, ME
Birch Island, ME is a tranquil, close-knit island community with about 80 residents, offering beautiful coastal scenery and a peaceful lifestyle. Median home prices are around $295,000, with rents near $1,100 and a moderate cost of living. Residents enjoy low crime rates (violent crime: 62 per 100k), a median commute of 31 minutes, and access to quality regional healthcare. The area features classic Maine weather with chilly winters, mild summers, and easy access to public education on nearby islands or the mainland—a perfect fit for those seeking coastal charm and a slower pace.
Demographics - Birch Island, ME
Demographics - Birch Island, ME
Birch Island is home to a small population of about 80 residents, with a median age of 54, reflecting a mature, close-knit community. The area is predominantly White, and there is a nearly even gender balance, offering a peaceful rural island atmosphere ideal for those seeking tranquility and a strong sense of neighborliness.
Population:
80
Density:
50 per sq mi
Median Age:
54
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Birch Island, ME?
The cost of living in Birch Island is moderately above the national average, with a median home value of $295,000 and average rents around $1,100. Utilities and transportation are slightly higher than average, but overall affordability may appeal to those looking for coastal living without urban price tags.
Median House Value:
$295,000
Gross Rent:
$1,100
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
5.8%
|
High:
7.15%
Cost Of Living Index:
108.5
Grocery:
107.2
Housing:
104.8
Utilities:
115.9
Transportation:
110.1
Health Care:
106.7
Miscellaneous:
102.5
Crime
Is Birch Island, ME a safe place to live?
Birch Island boasts very low crime rates, with violent incidents at just 62 per 100,000 residents and property crime also well below national averages. Residents enjoy a strong sense of safety and security in this small, peaceful community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
62
Property Crimes Per 100k:
940
Crime Index:
1,002
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,613
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 106
Weather
What is the weather like in Birch Island, ME year-round?
Residents experience classic Maine weather, with cold winters averaging lows of 9°F and pleasant summers reaching up to 77°F. The area receives about 44.5 inches of rain annually and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year, making it perfect for those who appreciate seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
9°F
Max:
29°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
56°F
Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
77°F
Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
59°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
With a median household income of $49,200 and a poverty rate of 11.5%, Birch Island offers a modest but stable economic environment. Most adults have completed high school and a quarter hold bachelor’s degrees or higher, contributing to a well-educated and welcoming community.
Median Income:
$42,000
Household Income:
$49,200
Family Income:
$59,000
Per Capita Income:
$30,800
Income Male:
$38,500
Income Female:
$32,000
Poverty Rate:
11.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.1%
Rent:
$1,100
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
31.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.1%
Bachelors or More:
24.3%
Education
How are the schools in Birch Island, ME?
Birch Island students typically attend Vinalhaven School, a small public school with a low student-teacher ratio, while higher education is accessible at the University of Maine at Augusta, about 63 miles away. The community supports educational attainment, making it suitable for families valuing quality schooling.
Public Schools
Name:
Vinalhaven School
Street:
22 Arcola Ln
Phone:
207-863-4800
Students:
175
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.2
Colleges
Name:
University of Maine at Augusta
City:
Augusta
State:
ME
Distance:
63 miles
Students:
5,500
Healthcare
Birch Island residents have access to quality healthcare, including nearby Penobscot Bay Medical Center, and benefit from a high rate of health insurance coverage at 93.8%. With 2.4 physicians per 1,000 people, the area provides reliable medical support for island living.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Penobscot Bay Medical Center
Address:
6 Glen Cove Dr, Rockport, ME 04856
Phone:
(207) 301-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Birch Island, ME?
The housing market features a median home price of $295,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 79.4%, indicating a stable and homeowner-focused community. Property values have seen healthy appreciation, making Birch Island attractive for those seeking long-term investment and stability.
Median Home Price:
$295,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,100
Owner Occupied Rate:
79.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
DMV services for Birch Island residents are provided by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, located in Augusta. The office offers full licensing and registration services, with additional information available on the state’s official BMV website.
State:
Maine
Department:
Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
101 Hospital St, Augusta, ME 04330
Phone:
207-624-9000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.