Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cliff Island, ME
Thinking of relocating to Cliff Island, ME? This peaceful island community, home to just 60 residents, offers a tranquil lifestyle with a median home price around $490,000 and average rents near $1,300. Residents enjoy low crime rates, scenic weather with cool summers, and access to top hospitals in nearby Portland. While commutes can be lengthy due to ferry schedules, Cliff Island is perfect for those seeking a close-knit community and classic Maine coastal beauty.
Demographics - Cliff Island, ME
Demographics - Cliff Island, ME
Cliff Island is a small, close-knit community with just 60 residents and a population density of 20 people per square mile. The median age is 54, reflecting a predominantly older population, and the community is primarily White, with minimal ethnic diversity. This tranquil island setting appeals to those seeking a peaceful, low-key lifestyle.
Population:
60
Density:
20 per sq mi
Median Age:
54
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
97.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cliff Island, ME?
The cost of living on Cliff Island is moderately high, with a median home value of $490,000 and average rents of $1,300 per month. Housing and utility expenses are above the national average, reflected in a cost of living index of 114. State income taxes range from 5.8% to 7.15%, making budgeting important for new residents.
Median House Value:
$490,000
Gross Rent:
$1,300
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$190
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$700
State Taxes:
Low:
5.8%
|
High:
7.15%
Cost Of Living Index:
114.0
Grocery:
108.5
Housing:
124.3
Utilities:
121.7
Transportation:
112.0
Health Care:
110.4
Miscellaneous:
107.9
Crime
Is Cliff Island, ME a safe place to live?
Cliff Island enjoys an exceptionally low crime rate, with just 30 violent crimes and 370 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The odds of experiencing a violent crime are extremely low—about 1 in 3,300—making it a safe place for families and retirees. This peaceful environment is ideal for those prioritizing safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
30
Property Crimes Per 100k:
370
Crime Index:
400
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 3,300
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 270
Weather
What is the weather like in Cliff Island, ME year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with mild summers averaging highs of 78°F and cold winters dropping to 14°F. The island receives about 47.5 inches of rain annually and enjoys sunshine 52% of the year. This coastal climate is perfect for those who appreciate cooler temperatures and scenic weather changes.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
31°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
55°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The community has a median household income of $55,000 and a relatively low poverty rate of 8.6%. Most residents commute around 55 minutes, often involving ferry travel, and public transportation is not commonly used. High education levels and a small, friendly population contribute to the island's welcoming atmosphere.
Median Income:
$35,000
Household Income:
$55,000
Family Income:
$67,000
Per Capita Income:
$28,000
Income Male:
$31,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
8.6%
Non English Speakers:
2.0%
Rent:
$1,300
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
55 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.2%
Bachelors or More:
36.0%
Education
How are the schools in Cliff Island, ME?
Educational options include Peaks Island Elementary School, just a ferry ride away, which offers small class sizes and a personalized learning environment. Older students have access to colleges like the University of Southern Maine in nearby Portland. The community values education, with over 91% of adults holding a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Peaks Island Elementary School
Street:
4 Church Ave, Peaks Island
Phone:
207-766-2020
Students:
60
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Colleges
Name:
University of Southern Maine
City:
Portland
State:
ME
Distance:
7 miles (via ferry and car)
Students:
8,000
Healthcare
While there are no hospitals on the island itself, residents have access to major medical facilities like Northern Light Mercy Hospital and Maine Medical Center in Portland. The area benefits from a high health insurance coverage rate of 93.5% and a favorable physician-to-resident ratio. Healthcare needs are well supported through nearby resources.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Northern Light Mercy Hospital
Address:
175 Fore River Pkwy, Portland, ME 04102
Phone:
(207) 879-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Maine Medical Center
Address:
22 Bramhall St, Portland, ME 04102
Phone:
(207) 662-0111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.5%
Health Care Index:
77.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cliff Island, ME?
Cliff Island's housing market is characterized by a high median home price of $490,000 and strong homeownership at 78%. Rent for a two-bedroom averages $1,300 per month, and the market has seen a 4.7% appreciation in home values over the past year. Housing options are limited but stable, with low foreclosure and vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$490,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,300
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, located in Augusta. The DMV provides all standard services for Maine drivers, and more information can be found on their official website. Planning ahead is recommended due to the island's remote location.
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.